Head to head Subaru Impreza 2.0R Hatch V Suzuki SX4 AWD
Sydney Morning Herald
Saturday July 18, 2009
Impreza ... $26,990 drive away. 2.0-litre four-cylinder; 110kW/196Nm; 5-man, 4-auto; 8.9L/100km (m), 8.8L/100km (a); 210g/km (m), 208g/km (a) CO2; constant AWD VALUEClimate control air-con, trip computer, cruise control, rear-lip spoiler, auto headlights, four-speaker single-CD audio, 16-inch steel wheels, constant all-wheel-drive.SAFETYSix airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes, five-star ANCAP crash rating.ENGINEPeaky performance and loves to be revved, though this translates into higher fuel use.INSIDEGood cabin storage options, lots of hard plastics but looks are ahead of the SX4's presentation, severely cramped boot, reclining rear seats.HOW IT DRIVESCombination of factors makes this the driver's choice.VERDICTSomewhat joyless engine around town but at least you'll have a safe and at-times engaging car.SX4 ... $25,730 drive away. 2.0-litre four; 107kW/184Nm; 5-man, 4-auto; 8.4L/100km (m), 9.5L/100km (a); 200g/km (m), 221g/km (a) CO2, switchable AWDVALUEOff-road looks, roof rails, climate control air-con, trip computer, eight-speaker single-CD audio, 16-inch steel wheels, switchable all-wheel-drive, no cruise control.SAFETYTwo airbags, anti-lock brakes, no stability control,four-star ANCAP crash rating.ENGINELet down slightly by noise and vibration once revs rise, surprisingly small fuel tank limits range.INSIDEBland internal packaging with plenty of hard plastics, decent boot space, tall and narrow frame makes the front seats very upright.HOW IT DRIVESDecent ride but strong slant towards low-speed comfort.VERDICTPricier S model seems a better buy with keyless entry, foglamps, alloy wheels and more airbags.
© 2009 Sydney Morning Herald
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