2008 Suzuki Forenza

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.

This small sedan is the successor to the Daewoo Nubira. It's called the Optra in Canada. The Forenza's many features might appear tempting, but its performance does not compete well with the class leaders. The 126-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers fairly slow acceleration and only so-so fuel economy. The Forenza corners reluctantly and does not inspire confidence when pushed to its limits. The ride is stiff and not well-controlled. Interior fit and finish is relatively good, however, and the firm front seats offer good support. We found it hard to find a Forenza with ABS. The Reno is the hatchback version.