2004 SUZUKI FORENZA NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2004 Suzuki Forenza?
Styled by Pininfarina in Italy and assembled by GM-Daewoo in South Korea, the new 2004 Suzuki Forenza intends to compete head-on with the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and other stalwart economy sedans. A 2.0-liter inline four making 119 horsepower powers the Suzuki Forenza through either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. A four-wheel-independent suspension with gas shocks rides upon 15-inch wheels and 195/55 tires. Four-wheel-disc brakes are standard, with ABS an option on any of three trim levels. The standard S model includes air conditioning, an eight-speaker sound system with CD player, power windows, power door locks, heated mirrors, tilt steering, floor mats, a tachometer, and a timed rear defroster. The mid-level LX adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, remote keyless entry, alloy wheels, fog lights, sunroof and cruise control. Top-of-the-line EX models are outfitted with leather upholstery and an automatic transmission.

Advantages of the 2004 Suzuki Forenza:

• Seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Well-equipped for the price
• Comfortable front seats
• Large trunk
• Nice ride quality

Objections to the 2004 Suzuki Forenza:

• Engine is noisy and could use more power
• Automatic door locks
• Rear seat leg room is tight, even by compact standards
• Rated at just 22 mpg in the city with the automatic

Editor's Advice:
Buyers looking for basic, stylish, functional transportation that offers plenty of content at a low price will find the 2004 Suzuki Forenza quite appealing. With an outstanding powertrain warranty, comfortable front seats, quality interior materials, and an uncommon level of standard features for the price (especially on the EX model), the Suzuki Forenza makes a great commuter car. However, it’s not much fun to drive, the noisy engine could use more power, and the rear seats are lacking in terms of legroom. Plus, fuel economy is rated at a measly 22 mpg with the automatic, and that’s when driving with the EPA’s light foot. The 2004 Suzuki Forenza might not threaten stalwarts in the class such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, but it stacks up nicely compared to older entries like the Chevrolet Cavalier and Nissan Sentra.