Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ride along with Monster Tajima as he rockets up Pikes Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/ride-along-with-monster-tajima-as-he-rockets-up-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/ride-along-with-monster-tajima-as-he-rockets-up-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/28/ride-along-with-monster-tajima-as-he-rockets-up-pikes-peak/#commentsFiled under: , ,

monster tajima ride-along video screenshot
Ride along with Monster as he races up Pikes Peak - Click above to watch video after the jump

Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima's 9:51.278 run up Pikes Peak was simply amazing to watch. We were fortunate enough to see it in person, and we've shown you still photos of the record-breaking event. This was one of those "You had to be there" moments in motorsports. Still, don't fret if you didn't make the trek to the 14,115-foot summit, because GoPro installed enough cameras to capture every angle of Monster's run, and then some.

We spoke with the GoPro team as we rode in the media van down the mountain. They have quite a job of editing ahead of them. Still, they managed to get one video out that requires no mucking about. A camera was mounted on top of Tajima's 2011 Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special, and the footage is excellent. On the tarmac sections, the video almost seems sped up, but that's what 910 horses can do.

Want to ride along with Monster from the green to the checkered? Click past the jump to watch a video that will keep you entertained for nearly 10 minutes.

Continue reading Ride along with Monster Tajima as he rockets up Pikes Peak

Ride along with Monster Tajima as he rockets up Pikes Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gopromonster tajimanobuhiro monster tajimapikes peakpikes peak recordsuzukisuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 hill climb specialsx4tajimavideoTue, 28 Jun 2011 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19977968/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/28/ride-along-with-monster-tajima-as-he-rockets-up-pikes-peak/19977968/article-detail.xml 19977968 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/tajima-onboard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/tajima-onboard.jpg <![CDATA[Up close with Monster Tajima's Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/25/up-close-with-monster-tajimas-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/25/up-close-with-monster-tajimas-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/25/up-close-with-monster-tajimas-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-special/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 monster sport suzuki sx4 hill climb special
2011 Monster Sport Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special - Click above for high-res image gallery

The man known as Monster Tajima once ran all 12.42 miles of Pikes Peak in 10:01.408. That was 2007. Four years later, Tajima-san is back to make the trip in even less time. Is a sub-ten-minute time in the cards for the 2011 International Pikes Peak Hill Climb? Nobuhiro Tajima and his team think so. They've returned to the mountain with an updated Monster Sport Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special, and the 910-horsepower beast is ready run.

We got to spend a few moments with Tajima's updated Suzuki before it hit Tejon Street for Fan Fest. The car is littered with cameras courtesy of sponsor GoPro, but the video equipment isn't part of the go-fast upgrades. Monster Sport came prepared to run on the increased amount of tarmac, which means changes were made to the suspension, spring rates, tires and wheels. Falken custom-built a set of tires that features a tarmac-specific tread pattern and delivers serious grip. They're wrapped around a set of HRE forged monoblock wheels dubbed the P43S Tajima Specials.

Still, the heart of the SX4 sits directly behind Tajima. A 3.1-liter twin-turbocharged V6 pushes the car to speeds well over 100 miles per hour in the blink of an eye. Couple that with the close-ratio transmission, and Monster has a machine built with one goal. Will he accomplish it and become the first man to record a sub-10 minute run? We'll have to wait until tomorrow to find out, but we've spoken to the man and seen his car. Stay tuned. Pikes Peak history could be in the making.

Up close with Monster Tajima's Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Jun 2011 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gopromonster tajimamoster sportnobuhiro tajimapikes peaksuzukisuzuki sx4suzuki sz4 hill climb specialSat, 25 Jun 2011 11:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19976355/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/25/up-close-with-monster-tajimas-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-special/19976355/article-detail.xml 19976355 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/002-2011-monster-sport-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-lead-1308983706_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/002-2011-monster-sport-suzuki-sx4-hill-climb-lead-1308983706.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara models over potential pulley failure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-models-over-potential-pulley-fa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-models-over-potential-pulley-fa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/15/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-models-over-potential-pulley-fa/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack by RoadRace Motorsports
2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack by RoadRace Motorsports - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki grand vitaraA tension adjuster pulley is the culprit in a round of recalls by Suzuki covering 2009-2011 Grand Vitaras and 2010-2011 SX4s. This pulley supports the drive belt, which runs alternator, water pump, air conditioner and power steering pump.

Should the belt come off while driving, the vehicle will quickly become more difficult to steer and the engine could stall. Dealers will swap the pulley out for one that works correctly at no charge to owners of the affected vehicles. The recall begins on February 16th, 2011 and will affect 32,291 Suzuki vehicles.

Click past the jump to read the full NHTSA bulletin.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack by RoadRace Motorsports


Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara models over potential pulley failure

Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara models over potential pulley failure originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand vitaranational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallrecallssuzukisuzuki grand vitarasuzuki recallsuzuki sx4sx4Tue, 15 Feb 2011 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19843084/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/15/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-models-over-potential-pulley-fa/19843084/article-detail.xml 19843084 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/03suzukisx4sbrrmreview2010opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/03suzukisx4sbrrmreview2010opt.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki recalling SX4 models for faulty side view mirror screws]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/suzuki-recalling-sx4-models-for-faulty-side-view-mirror-screws/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/suzuki-recalling-sx4-models-for-faulty-side-view-mirror-screws/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/suzuki-recalling-sx4-models-for-faulty-side-view-mirror-screws/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Suzuki SX4 by RoadRace Motorsports
2010 Suzuki SX4 by RoadRace Motorsports - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki has recalled almost 70,000 SX4 models, including a handful built in 2007 as well as those constructed between 2008 and 2010. The recall centers around faulty screws that are used to attach the vehicles' side view mirrors. Over time, vibrations can cause the screws to loosen and the mirror may fall off. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, if that happens, a lack of visibility may lead to an accident.

While Suzuki has not yet come up with a repair schedule for the issue, the company says that replacement screws are being shipped to dealers right now, and that the problem will be taken care of free of charge. Owners can contact their local Suzuki dealer for more information. Hit the jump for the company's statement on the recall.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack by RoadRace Motorsports


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 AOL.
[Sources: NHTSA, Suzuki]

Continue reading Suzuki recalling SX4 models for faulty side view mirror screws

Suzuki recalling SX4 models for faulty side view mirror screws originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recallsuzukisuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 recallsx4sx4 recallFri, 29 Oct 2010 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19695450/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/29/suzuki-recalling-sx4-models-for-faulty-side-view-mirror-screws/19695450/article-detail.xml 19695450 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/sx4-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/sx4-630.jpg <![CDATA[Top Gear USA could just become your second favorite automotive television show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-usa-could-just-become-your-second-favorite-automotive-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-usa-could-just-become-your-second-favorite-automotive-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-usa-could-just-become-your-second-favorite-automotive-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

Top Gear USA Lamborghini
Top Gear USA runs with the bulls - Click above to watch video after the jump

On Monday, October 18th 2010, Michael Harley and I had the opportunity to attend a taping of an episode of the upcoming Top Gear USA series. As we all know by now, the show is a new version of the BBC original and as a huge fan of that show, my expectations were set to "neutral" for the American spin-off. Harley and I entered an old airplane hangar located on the former El Toro Marine Base in Irvine, California and were immediately impressed by what we saw.

Hit the jump for our impressions.

Continue reading Top Gear USA could just become your second favorite automotive television show

Top Gear USA could just become your second favorite automotive television show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 20:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Adam Ferrarabbcbbc americahistory channelJames MayJeremy ClarksonRichard HammondRutledge Woodsuzuki sx4tanner foustThe Stigtop geartop gear americaTop Gear UKtop gear usaTue, 19 Oct 2010 20:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19679916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/19/top-gear-usa-could-just-become-your-second-favorite-automotive-t/19679916/article-detail.xml 19679916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/topgearusalambos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/topgearusalambos.jpg <![CDATA[Top Gear America's Reasonably Priced Car outed as Suzuki SX4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-americas-reasonably-price-car-outed-as-suzuki-sx4/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-americas-reasonably-price-car-outed-as-suzuki-sx4/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/19/top-gear-americas-reasonably-price-car-outed-as-suzuki-sx4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

U.S. Top Gear Big Star in a Small CarHere in the good 'ole United States of America, we like things big... and small. Over in UK, they can have their reasonably priced cars, we don't need 'em. We're putting a Big Star in a Small Car instead.

Naturally, the premise is the same. Take one name-brand celebrity and place them behind the wheel of a run-of-the-mill car available to the masses here in America and send them around a makeshift race track. While the British version of Top Gear currently uses a Kia Cee'd for star-shuttling duty, America's TG spin-off will feature a Suzuki SX4.

For what it's worth, we had a couple of guys in the audience during the taping of the U.S. show's first episode and we had signed statements restricting us from publishing this information. Apparently, though, it's been leaked by either someone at Top Gear or by Suzuki.

In any case, we genuinely like Suzuki's little runabout. It's not particularly fast, but it's an able handler and it has the beans to pull itself around a track quickly enough. Plus, it's pretty reasonably priced... not that we care, of course. And, as you'd expect from any show that carries the name Top Gear, there will indeed be an American Stig. Current internet rumormongering suggests that F1-ace Rubens Barrichello is the American Stig, but that hasn't been, nor is it likely to be, officially confirmed.

In related news, some of the American stars that will be piloting the SX4 include Tim Allen, Buzz Aldrin, Ty Burrell, Tony Hawk, Bret Michaels, Dominic Monaghan, Kid Rock and Michelle Rodriguez. Suitably big stars?

[Source: Variety]

Top Gear America's Reasonably Priced Car outed as Suzuki SX4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>stigsuzukisuzuki sx4sx4the stigtop geartop gear americatop gear the stigtop gear usaTue, 19 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19680517/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/19/top-gear-americas-reasonably-price-car-outed-as-suzuki-sx4/19680517/article-detail.xml 19680517 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/us-top-gear-stig-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/us-top-gear-stig-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki SX4 blacks out for UK special edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/suzuki-sx4-blacks-out-for-uk-special-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/suzuki-sx4-blacks-out-for-uk-special-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/16/suzuki-sx4-blacks-out-for-uk-special-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Suzuki SX4 SZ-L
Suzuki SX4 SZ-L - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki has released details on a new special edition version of its SX4 for the UK. Called the SZ-L, the five-door will come from the factory wearing a host of appearance upgrades aimed to give the vehicle an urban flair, including a few splashes of gunmetal accents on the roof rails, grille, wheels and skid plates. The gray theme continues on inside with Alcantara trim in all the right places and ghost stitching around the leather steering wheel. Unfortunately, as awesome as all of the menacing gunmetal trim is, the hatchback's mechanicals leave something to be desired.

Instead of pairing the blacked-out goodies with the company's bones-cheap all-wheel drive system, the SZ-L is only available with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine powering the front-wheels. That blows one sad trombone in our book. The upshot is that Suzuki is only offering the special edition with a five-speed manual, so slusher fans need not apply.

The Suzuki SX4 SZ-L starts at $20,533 in the UK (at current conversion rates) and there's no word as to whether or not a similar model will show up on our shores. Hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: Suzuki SX4 SZ-L


[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading Suzuki SX4 blacks out for UK special edition

Suzuki SX4 blacks out for UK special edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Suzuki SX4 SZ-L2011SuzukiSx4Sz-lSuzukiSuzuki SX4Suzuki SX4 SZ-LSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4Sz-lSX4 SZ-LSx4Sz-lThu, 16 Sep 2010 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19636219/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/16/suzuki-sx4-blacks-out-for-uk-special-edition/19636219/article-detail.xml 19636219 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-sx4-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-sx4-630.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara and Equator for overheating Garmin sat-nav units]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/08/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-and-equator-for-overheating-gar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/08/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-and-equator-for-overheating-gar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/08/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-and-equator-for-overheating-gar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Suzuki SX4 Sport sedan
Suzuki SX4 Sport with Garmin navigation system - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki SX4 with Garmin navigationWhen Garmin issued a recall on its Nuvi portable navigation system a couple of weeks ago, Japanese automaker Suzuki informed us that it would need to issue a follow-up recall for a few vehicles in its lineup. After all, Suzuki offers dashboard-mounted Garmin GPS units in its Equator, Grand Vitara and SX4 models, and unfortunately, the Nuvi navis supplied to Suzuki are among the ones that need repair.

Approximately 20,692 Suzuki vehicles are affected by this recall - specifically the 2008-2010 SX4, 2010 Grand Vitara and 2009-2010 Equator equipped with Garmin Nuvi 750, 760 and 765 navigation systems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that the batteries in these nav units can potentially overheat which could result in a fire.

Garmin technicians will replace the existing batteries free of charge and owners will be notified within the next few weeks. The official recall notice from NHTSA is available after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP


Photos Copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara and Equator for overheating Garmin sat-nav units

Suzuki recalls SX4, Grand Vitara and Equator for overheating Garmin sat-nav units originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>equatorGarmingarmin nuvigarmin recallGarminNuviGrand VitaraNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNHTSAnhtsa recallnuvirecallRecallssuzukisuzuki equatorSuzuki Grand Vitarasuzuki grand vitara recallsuzuki sx4SuzukiSx4SX4Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19624035/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/08/suzuki-recalls-sx4-grand-vitara-and-equator-for-overheating-gar/19624035/article-detail.xml 19624035 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/suzukisx4sport04_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/suzukisx4sport04.jpg <![CDATA[Monster Tajima won't be letting Millen go unchallenged at Pikes Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/monster-tajima-wont-be-letting-millen-go-unchallenged-at-pikes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/monster-tajima-wont-be-letting-millen-go-unchallenged-at-pikes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/24/monster-tajima-wont-be-letting-millen-go-unchallenged-at-pikes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Monster Tajima and his Suzuki SX4 hill-climb special - Click above for high-res image gallery

While Rhys Millen and his new Hyundai V8 powered Pikes Peak challenger have been getting the most attention, Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima has no intention of letting Millen capture all the glory without a fight. Tajima has been the dominant force at Pikes Peak in recent years and is the current overall record holders at 10:01.408, surpassing Rod Millen's run in 2007.

Tajima is back in Colorado this week with the latest edition of his Suzuki SX4 hill-climb special. The SX4 is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.1-liter V6 generating 910 horsepower and 655 pound-feet of torque in a car that weighs just 2,425 pounds. Tajima has spent plenty of time in the wind-tunnel since last year's race refining the shape of his car to maximize down-force and reduce drag. It should be quite a battle on Sunday as the Tajima-Millen conflict resumes.


Gallery: Pikes Peak 2010: Monster Tajima and Suzuki SX4


[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading Monster Tajima won't be letting Millen go unchallenged at Pikes Peak

Monster Tajima won't be letting Millen go unchallenged at Pikes Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>monster tajimaMonsterTajimaNobuhiro Monster TajimaNobuhiro TajimaNobuhiroMonsterTajimaNobuhiroTajimapikes peakpikes peak hill climbPikes Peak International Hill ClimbPikesPeakPikesPeakHillClimbPikesPeakInternationalHillClimbsuzukisuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 hill climb specialSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4HillClimbSpecialThu, 24 Jun 2010 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19529330/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/24/monster-tajima-wont-be-letting-millen-go-unchallenged-at-pikes/19529330/article-detail.xml 19529330 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/msppihc2010001-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/msppihc2010001-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Edmunds compiles top ten 'Dark-Horse' list of worthy overlooked vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/edmunds-compiles-top-ten-dark-horse-list-of-worthy-overlooked/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/edmunds-compiles-top-ten-dark-horse-list-of-worthy-overlooked/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/16/edmunds-compiles-top-ten-dark-horse-list-of-worthy-overlooked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Edmunds' Top 10 'Dark-Horse' cars - Click above for high-res image gallery

We all know the typical sales winners of the automotive universe. Come hell or high water, Honda Civics and Toyota Camrys will still float off of the lot. Granted, that's good news for most automakers, but at the same time, there's a wealth of under-appreciated models languishing under the beady eyes of inflatable gorillas across the country. The good people of Edmunds have taken it upon themselves to wrangle up a top 10 list of those long forgotten winners and filed them under the collective banner of "Dark-Horse" candidates. Sexy.

We're absolutely down with cars like the 2010 Buick Lacrosse, 2010 Suzuki Kizashi and the 2010 Hyundai Genesis, but the 2010 Nissan Versa has us scratching our heads. While the car is a perfectly decent little compact, the market is awash with other excellent options. Need proof? Look no further than another Edmunds Dark-Horse selection, the 2011 Ford Fiesta. We suppose that with all the hype surrounding the new Blue Oval hatchback that it can't as easily be considered a forgotten option, at least at this point. Hop the jump for the full press blast and check the gallery below for the top picks.


Gallery: Edmunds Top Ten Dark-Horse Cars


[Source: Edmunds]

Continue reading Edmunds compiles top ten 'Dark-Horse' list of worthy overlooked vehicles

Edmunds compiles top ten 'Dark-Horse' list of worthy overlooked vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buick lacrosseBuickLacrosseDark HorseDark Horse CarsDarkHorseDarkHorseCarsEdmundsEdmunds top 10 Dark Horse CarsEdmundsTop10DarkHorseCarsFord FiestaFord FusionFordFiestaFordFusionHyundai GenesisHyundai SonataHyundaiGenesisHyundaiSonataKia SedonaKiaSedonaMazda Mazda5MazdaMazda5Nissan VersaNissanVersaSuzuki KizashiSuzuki SX4SuzukiKizashiSuzukiSx4Wed, 16 Jun 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19518810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/16/edmunds-compiles-top-ten-dark-horse-list-of-worthy-overlooked/19518810/article-detail.xml 19518810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/03-edmunds-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/03-edmunds-630.jpg <![CDATA[KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Kelley Blue Book Top 10 Cars for under $18k - Click above for high-res image gallery

Being in the market for a cheap new car used to mean resigning yourself to time bombs like the Chevrolet Citation or windups like the Geo Metro or Ford Aspire, but the times, they are a-changin', and the good folk at Kelley Blue Book have worked up their very own top 10 list of cool cars for under $18,000.

Not surprisingly, the 2011 Ford Fiesta nabbed a mention thanks to its 28 mpg city, 40 mpg highway EPA rating and mile-long standard feature list. Likewise, the new 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring received a spot on the list. The Korean automaker's new long roof manages 23 city and 30 mph mpg highway thanks to its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The base Mitsubishi Lancer also made the cut - another 2.0-liter bruiser, the baby brother of the Evolution nabs 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Suzuki also got some love on the KBB list with its SX4. When optioned with the five-speed gearbox, the car walks away with 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Rounding out the list is the ever lovable 2010 Honda Fit. Just like the Suzuki, if you want a few more miles per tank, you'll need to opt for the manual transmission. Thusly equipped, the little Honda can 28 mpg city and up to 35 mpg highway.

Want to see what else made the list? Hit the jump or visit KBB for the whole list.

Gallery: Kelly Blue Book Top 10 Cool Cars


[Source: Kelley Blue Book]

Continue reading KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?

KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 hyundai elantra touring2010HyundaiElantraTouring20112011 Ford Fiesta2011FordFiestabuying guideBuyingGuideelantra touringElantraTouringFiestaFordFord FiestaFordFiestaHonda CivicHondaCivicHyundaihyundai elantra touringHyundaiElantraTouringkbbkelley blue bookKelleyBlueBookKia SoulKiaSoulLancermazda3MitsubishiMitsubishi LancerMitsubishiLancerNissan CubeNissanCubeScion xBScionXbSuzukiSuzuki SX4SuzukiSx4SX4Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19488888/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/24/kbb-names-coolest-cars-under-18k-do-you-agree/19488888/article-detail.xml 19488888 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01-kbb-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/01-kbb-630.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Suzuki SX4-based VW 'Rocktan' conjured up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/21/rendered-speculation-suzuki-sx4-based-vw-rocktan-conjured-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/21/rendered-speculation-suzuki-sx4-based-vw-rocktan-conjured-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/21/rendered-speculation-suzuki-sx4-based-vw-rocktan-conjured-up/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

According to Mibz.com, the Suzuki SX4 won't be pimped to just Fiat anymore (see: Sedici), Volkswagen is getting in on the act. Going after the small end of the market, VW is reportedly set to take advantage of its new 19.9 percent share of Suzuki and swiping the lovable little SX4 as the basis of a new model tentatively dubbed Rocktan.

Positioned as a city-sized crossover, the Rocktan theoretically slots in between the similarly tiny CrossPolo and Tiguan, though this is all unconfirmed at this point. Power will apparently not be from Suzuki, but rather from VW, likely the 1.4-liter TSI gasoline engine and 1.6- and 2.0-liter TDI diesels. This could be mere grist for the rumormill, or we could soon see a Nissan Juke-sized VolkZuki. For now, all we've got are dreams of another flavor of the friendly SX4.

[Source: Mibz.com]

Rendered Speculation: Suzuki SX4-based VW 'Rocktan' conjured up originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 May 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rocktanSuzuki SX4SuzukiSx4SX-4SX4volkswagen rocktanvolkswagen suzukivolkswagen sx4VolkswagenRocktanVolkswagenSuzukiVolkswagenSx4VW SUVvw suzukiVwSuvVwSuzukiFri, 21 May 2010 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19482640/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/21/rendered-speculation-suzuki-sx4-based-vw-rocktan-conjured-up/19482640/article-detail.xml 19482640 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/vwsx4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/vwsx4.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki re-starts the free gas spiff, extends offer to full model range]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/29/suzuki-re-starts-the-free-gas-spiff-extends-offer-to-full-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/29/suzuki-re-starts-the-free-gas-spiff-extends-offer-to-full-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/29/suzuki-re-starts-the-free-gas-spiff-extends-offer-to-full-model/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last year, Suzuki offered its "Free Gas for Summer" promotion on SX4 Sport and Crossover models. Apparently, it was a bit of a success, since the automaker is not only reviving this campaign, but is spreading the promotion across its full model range (Kizashi, Grand Vitara, Equator and SX4 models). Since fuel prices commonly rise in the summer months, we can see many shoppers becoming excited about any promotion that involves free fuel, and with the hot new Kizashi just now hitting dealers, this incentive could indeed boost sales of the hot new midsize sedan.

Customers who purchase a new Suzuki vehicle between May 1st and August 31st will receive a pre-paid debit card which should, theoretically, pay for one summer's worth of fuel. The pre-paid cards range in value from $280 to $442, and are calculated based on the vehicle's EPA fuel economy estimates, and on the Federal Highway Administration's estimated average of 1,000 miles driven per month. Still, even if owners exceed this mileage, having a couple hundred bucks in free gas is nothing to be upset about. The full details are available in Suzuki's press release, after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi GTS


Photos by John Neff / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading Suzuki re-starts the free gas spiff, extends offer to full model range

Suzuki re-starts the free gas spiff, extends offer to full model range originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 suzuki equator2010 suzuki grand vitara2010 Suzuki Kizashi2010 suzuki sx42010 suzuki sx4 sportback2010SuzukiEquator2010SuzukiGrandVitara2010SuzukiKizashi2010SuzukiSx42010SuzukiSx4Sportbackequatorfree gasfree gas for summerFreeGasFreeGasForSummerGrand VitaraGrandVitaraKizashimarketingsuzukiSuzuki Kizashisuzuki sx4SuzukiKizashiSuzukiSx4SX4SX4 SedanSX4 SportbackSx4SedanSx4SportbackThu, 29 Apr 2010 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19458910/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/29/suzuki-re-starts-the-free-gas-spiff-extends-offer-to-full-model/19458910/article-detail.xml 19458910 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/suzukikizashigtsreview03_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/suzukikizashigtsreview03.jpg <![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/tokyo-2009-suzuki-previews-three-fuel-cell-concepts/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/tokyo-2009-suzuki-previews-three-fuel-cell-concepts/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/tokyo-2009-suzuki-previews-three-fuel-cell-concepts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In addition to the plug-in series hybrid version of the Swift subcompact hatchback that Suzuki will display at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, the Japanese company will also be bringing along three separate concepts powered by fuel cells.

First up is the SX4-FCV, which uses an 80 kW hydrogen fuel cell stack supplied by longtime partner GM paired with a Suzuki-designed hydrogen storage tank that compresses the gas at 10,000 psi. A lightweight capacitor reportedly takes the place of the more common battery pack and helps smooth out the flow of electrons to the 68 kW electric motor and aids in regenerative braking. Road testing is currently underway of the SX4-FCV in Japan.

Next on the list is a version of Suzuki's popular Burgman scooter that's propelled by an electric motor that gets its power from a small hydrogen fuel cell from Intelligent Energy and the first 700-bar storage tank in the motorcycle world. The final fuel cell-powered concept from Suzuki is a personal mobility vehicle called the MIO that uses easily replaceable methanol fuel cell cartridges in lieu of batteries that should theoretically allow for unlimited range. Check out all three concepts in our gallery below and hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Fuel Cell Concepts

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts

Tokyo 2009: Suzuki previews three fuel cell concepts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burgmanhydrogen scooterhydrogen suzukiHydrogenScooterHydrogenSuzukimiosuzukisuzuki burgmansuzuki miosuzuki sx4suzuki sx4-fcvSuzukiBurgmanSuzukiMioSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4-fcvsx4sx4-fcvtokyotokyo 2009tokyo motor showTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowWed, 07 Oct 2009 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19186836/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/07/tokyo-2009-suzuki-previews-three-fuel-cell-concepts/19186836/article-detail.xml 19186836 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/sx4-fcv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/sx4-fcv.jpg <![CDATA[Ten-minute mark remains untouched as Monster Tajima wins Pikes Peak with 870hp Suzuki SX4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/images-needed-ten-minute-mark-remains-untouched-as-monster-taji/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/images-needed-ten-minute-mark-remains-untouched-as-monster-taji/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/images-needed-ten-minute-mark-remains-untouched-as-monster-taji/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Monster's Suzuki SX4 Sport - Click above for a high-res image gallery

They came. They saw. They were conquered. That pretty much sums up a thrilling Pikes Peak International Hillclimb for 2009 as Suzuki's legendary Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima took overall victory yet again, fending off a formidable paddock of rivals, while difficult weather conditions dictated that the mythical ten-minute mark - as well as Monster's own 10:15 personal best - remained untouched.

This year the Suzuki team replaced its existing XL7-bodied challenger in with a purpose-built SX4 packing a 2.7-liter V6 with a massive 873 horsepower on tap. But among those eager to strip the Japanese champions of their domination were two-time World Rally Champion Marcus Gronholm driving a specially prepared Ford Fiesta and an 1150hp Ford RS200. Along with all the other pretenders to the crown, they were fed a heaping dose of humble pie by the Monster. Meanwhile drift champ Rhys Millen took the 2WD class victory in his Hyundai Genesis, pledging to return to the peak in the top-spec Unlimited class in an effort to reclaim the title which Monster took from his father Rod Millen, whose record stood from 1994 through 2007 when Suzuki bested the time. The books were just closed on this year's run up the mountain, but the competition's already heating up for next year.


Gallery: Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima's Suzuki SX4 Sport

Continue reading Ten-minute mark remains untouched as Monster Tajima wins Pikes Peak with 870hp Suzuki SX4

Ten-minute mark remains untouched as Monster Tajima wins Pikes Peak with 870hp Suzuki SX4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hill climbHillClimbmillenmonstermonster tajimaMonsterTajimanobuhiro monster tajimanobuhiro tajimaNobuhiroMonsterTajimaNobuhiroTajimapeakpikespikes peakpikes peak hill climbpikes peak international hill climbPikesPeakpikespeakhillclimbPikesPeakInternationalHillClimbrhys millenRhysMillensteve millenSteveMillensuzukisuzuki sx4SuzukiSx4tajimaMon, 20 Jul 2009 19:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19103684/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/20/images-needed-ten-minute-mark-remains-untouched-as-monster-taji/19103684/article-detail.xml 19103684 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/02-hill-climb-suzuki-sx4-sport-580op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/02-hill-climb-suzuki-sx4-sport-580op.jpg <![CDATA[REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2010-suzuki-sx4-to-gain-front-drive-sportback-trim-powe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2010-suzuki-sx4-to-gain-front-drive-sportback-trim-powe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/15/report-2010-suzuki-sx4-to-gain-front-drive-sportback-trim-powe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Suzuki SX4 Crossover - Click above for high-res image gallery
Suzuki's upstart SX4 Crossover has continually surprised and delighted the automotive press with perky driving dynamics and nifty features like standard pop-up navigation. While we enjoyed the SX4 Sport we tested last year, we prefer the usability and all-wheel drive capability of the five door Crossover. AWD does add cost to the modestly priced SX4, though, and the added weight and parasitic drag have a negative impact on fuel economy.

Suzuki is reportedly further addressing that situation for the 2010 model year, as it is planning a front-drive SX4 hatch with SportBack trim. The front-drive SportBack, available only in Touring trim, will lose the Crossover's roof rack while gaining the sporty demeanor and lower ride height of the sedan.The Car Connection says that Suzuki will also raise the power output of the SX4's 2.0-liter engine across the range, bringing the stallion tally to 150. Without all-wheel drive, the SX4 SportBack will be lighter and more efficient, and without a roof rack, sitting lower to the ground, it figures to be more aerodynamic, too.

[Source: The Car Connection]

REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-wheel driveAll-wheelDriveawdsportbacksuzukisuzuki sx4SuzukiSx4sx4Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19098177/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/15/report-2010-suzuki-sx4-to-gain-front-drive-sportback-trim-powe/19098177/article-detail.xml 19098177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/sx4-crossover-07_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/sx4-crossover-07.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki is getting in on the free gas bandwagon that Hyundai kicked off this year by launching a "Free Gas for Summer" promotion on all SX4s sold between now and August 31st. Of course, it pays to read the fine print - what the purchaser really gets is a pre-paid credit card loaded up with $270 for the SX4 Sedan or $290 for the slightly less fuel efficient SX4 Crossover.

Whether or not this incentive is really "free gas for summer" depends on how much you plan to drive over the next three months or so. Still, it's a relatively pain-free way for Suzuki to advertise "Free Gas!" and it's still a few hundred bucks off the running costs of the car.

Along with the aforementioned sales promotion, Suzuki has also announced that it's offering $2,000 in customer cash off the price of any SX4 sold with a manual transmission, which we found to be a willing partner in eking out the most performance from the little runabout and much more desirable than the four-speed slushbox when we tested it last year.


Gallery: Review: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with TRIP


Photos Copyright (C)2008 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase

Suzuki offering free gas for summer with SX4 purchase originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free gas for summerFreeGasForSummersuzukisuzuki free gassuzuki free gas for summersuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 crossoversuzuki sx4 sedansuzuki sx4 sportSuzukiFreeGasSuzukiFreeGasForSummerSuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4CrossoverSuzukiSx4SedanSuzukiSx4SportWed, 01 Jul 2009 17:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19084220/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/07/01/suzuki-offering-free-gas-for-summer-with-sx4-purchase/19084220/article-detail.xml 19084220 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/suzuki_sx4_sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/07/suzuki_sx4_sedan.jpg <![CDATA[We Are All Bumblebee: Beijing Transformers fans gather to celebrate <i>Revenge of the Fallen</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/we-are-all-bumblebee-beijing-transformers-fans-gather-to-celebr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/we-are-all-bumblebee-beijing-transformers-fans-gather-to-celebr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/we-are-all-bumblebee-beijing-transformers-fans-gather-to-celebr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Beijing Bumblebee gathering - click above for high-res image gallery

Less than one week before Transformers 2: Rise of the Fallen goes into wide release in China, fans of the morphing vehicle-turned-robot movie franchise took to the streets of Beijing in full Bumblebee regalia.

What looks to be a well-organized event was put on by website Autohome.com.cn, and it appears that they even managed to get General Motors' Chevrolet division in on the act, with a new Bumblebee-spec Camaro to lead the procession of like-painted fan cars.

We're not sure we'd go with the yellow-and-black stripes treatment on our own rides, but we remain impressed with both the dedication and the sheer variety of cars that have been given the 'Full Bumblebee,' including a couple of new Cruze sedans and a passel of Aveos, a Ford Focus, a Suzuki Swift and an SX4, a Citroen C4 - even a Mark II Volkswagen Golf. Check out the high-res photo gallery after the jump, and be sure to click on the link below for even more shots of the event. Thanks for the tip, Joe!


Gallery: Beijing Bumblebee Gathering


[Source: Autohome.com.cn via Google Translate]

We Are All Bumblebee: Beijing Transformers fans gather to celebrate Revenge of the Fallen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeijingBumblebeeCamaroChevroletChevrolet CruzeChevroletCruzeChevy CruzeChevyCruzeMegan FoxMeganFoxRevenge of the FallenRevengeOfTheFallenRotFShia LaBeoufShiaLabeoufSuzuki SwiftSuzuki SX4SuzukiSwiftSuzukiSx4TransformersMon, 22 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19073502/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/22/we-are-all-bumblebee-beijing-transformers-fans-gather-to-celebr/19073502/article-detail.xml 19073502 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/beijing-bumblebee-trotf-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/beijing-bumblebee-trotf-580.jpg <![CDATA[The Suzuki Method: SX4 S2000 in the works for WRC comeback?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/the-suzuki-method-sx4-s2000-in-the-works-for-wrc-comeback/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/the-suzuki-method-sx4-s2000-in-the-works-for-wrc-comeback/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/the-suzuki-method-sx4-s2000-in-the-works-for-wrc-comeback/#commentsFiled under: ,


Suzuki SX4 WRC - Click above for a hi-res gallery
It's only been four months since Suzuki announced it was leaving the World Rally Championship, but reports are already surfacing about its comeback. Suzuki's decision came amidst a whole slew of similar announcements, primarily from Japanese automakers, to cancel their racing programs. Honda pulled out of F1, Subaru out of the WRC, Mitsubishi out of rally raids... even Kawasaki dropped their motorbike team. But while Honda is undoubtedly kicking itself for leaving the grand prix scene one season too early, it could be Suzuki that gets back into the race first.

The reports come from the mouth of Urmo Aava, one of Suzuki's most valued rally drivers. Since the Japanese carmaker withdrew from the top-level series, he's been helping the junior team with set-up for the Suzuki Swift S1600, but the planned switch next season to the more production-car-based S2000 formula in the top-tier WRC could open the door to more automakers like Suzuki coming back to the fold, or entering for the first time. Like the one which Suzuki was campaigning until last season (pictured above), the new car would be based on the SX4, but cost less to campaign. For his part, Aava realizes he'd need to bring in his own sponsorship cash to make it happen, but if it does, Suzuki could be kickin' gravel and jumping hills by 2011. Thanks to Eralp for the tip!


Gallery: Suzuki SX4 WRC


[Source: RallyBuzz]

The Suzuki Method: SX4 S2000 in the works for WRC comeback? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 06:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>s2000suzukisuzuki rallysuzuki sx4suzuki sx4 s2000suzuki sx4 wrcsuzuki world rally teamsuzuki wrcsuzuki wrtSuzukiRallySuzukiSx4SuzukiSx4S2000SuzukiSx4WrcSuzukiWorldRallyTeamSuzukiWrcSuzukiWrtsx4wrcTue, 21 Apr 2009 06:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1521416/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/21/the-suzuki-method-sx4-s2000-in-the-works-for-wrc-comeback/1521416/article-detail.xml 1521416 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/sx4_wrc_002_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/sx4_wrc_002.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Fit dominates <i>Consumer Reports</i> subcompact test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/honda-fit-dominates-i-consumer-reports-i-subcompact-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/honda-fit-dominates-i-consumer-reports-i-subcompact-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/03/honda-fit-dominates-i-consumer-reports-i-subcompact-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click on the image above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport

The folks over at Consumer Reports have ranked the Honda Fit Sport top among tested subcompact cars in their March 2009 issue. "We found the new Fit the most practical and enjoyable car in this month's group," says Consumers Union. The world's largest independent consumer product testing organization, who don't claim to be enthusiasts, ran the small Honda against the Suzuki SX4, Nissan Versa, Toyota Yaris, and Chevrolet Aveo.

Compared to the rest of the group, the Honda Fit Sport 5-speed was the quickest to 60 miles-per-hour (an asphalt-melting 9.2 seconds) and sipped the least amount of fuel during testing (a not too shabby 33 miles-per-gallon overall). The CU testers were pleased with the Honda's versatile and flexible interior, but not with its dismal headlights. Of the five, only the Fit and SX4 were recommended. The Yaris and Aveo scored too low in testing to make the cut, and the Renault-based Versa sedan has proven too unreliable. Better luck next year, guys. Official press release after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Honda Fit Sport


[Source: Consumer Reports via PR Newswire]

Continue reading Honda Fit dominates Consumer Reports subcompact test

Honda Fit dominates Consumer Reports subcompact test originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevrolet AveoChevroletAveoConsumer ReportsConsumerReportsConsumers UnionConsumersUnionHonda FitHonda Fit SportHondaFitHondaFitSportNissan VersaNissanVersaSubcompactSuzuki SX4SuzukiSx4Toyota YarisToyotaYarisTue, 03 Feb 2009 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1448325/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/03/honda-fit-dominates-i-consumer-reports-i-subcompact-test/1448325/article-detail.xml 1448325 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/2009-honda-fit-1280-06_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/2009-honda-fit-1280-06_opt.jpg -1 2