2012 Suzuki SX4

Known for offering small cars and SUVs in the 1980s and ‘90s, American Suzuki Motor Corp. eventually expanded its product line. Its final lineup was a mix of unique designs and products that were developed with other automakers. The Suzuki Forenza was based on a design shared with Daewoo and General Motors, and the Equator pickup truck was almost identical to the Nissan Frontier. The Grand Vitara midsized SUV was Suzuki’s own design, as were the last Suzuki cars sold in the U.S., the 2013 Kizashi sedan and SX4 hatchback. Suzuki motorcycles, ATVs, and marine products are still sold in the U.S., and Suzuki cars and SUVs are still available in other countries. Any used Suzuki cars still on the road will likely not have the latest safety and convenience features.

The SX4 comes as a small hatchback with SUV-like styling or a tall little four-door sedan. It's a much nicer car than the Aerio it replaced. All-wheel drive is standard on the hatchback; the sedan is only front-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system has three settings: front-wheel drive for supposedly better fuel economy; auto; and lock for better traction on slippery surfaces. The SX4 has easy cabin access and good visibility. It seats five, with modest cargo space behind the folding rear seats. The 2.0-liter, 143-hp, four-cylinder engine drones on the highway and delivers slow acceleration. Handling is fairly nimble, but the ride is stiff. For the first few years, electronic stability control was available only with the well-equipped Touring package. The Suzuki brand was discontinued after the 2013 model year.