Suzuki gains paddles and power

SUZUKI SX4: Engine and gearbox improvements and minor cosmetic changes.

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An uprated engine and a CVT transmission with steering-wheel shifters invest Suzuki's SX4 with better economy, lower emissions and higher refinement levels, says DAVE MOORE.

Suzuki has introduced a new version of the SX4s staple two-litre engine, dropped the smaller 1.6-litre unit from the lineup and upgraded the model's automatic option to a CVT Continuously Variable Transmission from the previous version's conventional four-speed unit. The range-topping CVT Limited model has shift paddles built into the steering wheel.

In addition, manual versions of the SX4 have six-speeds instead of five, and all models have a new grille and fresh alloy wheels to distinguish them from the early model.

The new SX4 engine is called the 2.0-litre J20B motor, and like its predecessor is a double overhead camshaft, variable valve unit. The engine produces 112kW, an increase of 4.7 per cent, and torque is up from 184 Nm to 190 Nm at 4000rpm.

Because of the car's new engine and more efficient transmissions, improvements have been achieved in fuel consumption and in lowering emissions.

The SX4 manual achieves 7.3 litres/100km compared to the former model's 8.2 litres/100km, an 11 per cent improvement. The SX4 CVT auto is 16.5 per cent more economical, achieving 7.6 litres/ 100km compared with 9.1 litres/ 100km for the previous model. CO2 emissions are 17 per cent lower in the SX4 CVT, producing 178 grams/km against 215 grams/km for the outgoing SX4 automatic.

The manual transmission model's 170 grams/km CO2 emission level is 11.9 per cent lower than the 193 gram/kms of the previous model.

Suzuki has developed a new intake variable valve timing arrangement which enhances mid to high-rev range performance through better optimising of valve timing.

As well as better power, economy and CO2 levels, the SX4 has gained in terms of refinement levels, with better coupling rigidity between the engine and transmission, a stiffer, lighter new engine block and a new plastic cylinder head cover, which further reduces overall weight.

Extensive new noise-reduction measures include a larger engine under-cover, an improved propeller- shaft damper and revised shift-device cover. Body rigidity increases and engine noise and other external noises are more effectively kept out of the cabin.

The latest SX4s now have ESP standard on all but the entry-point GLX model Sporthatch.

Interior improvements move the SX4 further upmarket, and include upgraded texture for door trim and armrests and new seat and door-trim upholstery, which was a weak point in the earlier car.

A new light-emitting meter cluster has an integrated digital information display, and the control panel for the climate-control air conditioning system has been revamped. Suzuki has fitted backlighting for the steering wheel-mounted audio switches.

The entry-point car is now the SX4 GLX manual Sporthatch, which increases by just $200 to $24,990. The GLX CVT version is $26,500, the Ltd manual hatch $27,500 and Ltd CVT hatch $28,990. Four-wheel-drive versions of the SX4 now start with the GLX manual hatch i-AWD at $27,500, with the CVT version costing $28,990 and the Limited CVT model $31,500. The sole sedan variant now available is the SX4 Limited CVT at $29,500 which is only available with two-wheel-drive.