Here we go again. Another Suzuki with “Italian” design influences, as if that's supposed to mean something to the young men and women shopping for the SX4. Maybe it does, but we think style is subjective, and these shoppers know whether it looks cool or not – at a glance – regardless of where it's designed. We think the Suzuki SX4 meets that coolness criteria, thanks to its wide track, geometric angles in strategic places, and wraparound rear windows that add a dab of flair. As a replacement for the Aerio SX, it's a big jump up the style ladder. Granted, the Aerio had an interesting character, but it's fair to say that its odd angles and tall doors didn't quite win acceptance among mainstream auto buyers. That was actually part of the Aerio's charm, for it was a sleeper, a diamond in the rough few people knew to appreciate.

But on to the sporty and fun SX4's interior. Inside, this car is all about practicality. For a low-priced vehicle, the interior comes across as durable and well-assembled with sturdy plastics and pleasing seat materials with a multi-purpose feel. Controls and instrument panel displays are designed to be simple and easy to use, with large knobs and intuitive placement, while the gauges are pleasing to the eye and easy to interpret at a glance.

All in all, designers used a light touch and made the most out of the space available inside the SX4. Legroom up front and in back was adequate, surprisingly so for this size of vehicle. One highlight is the theatre-style seating for rear seat occupants, which improves visibility. The 60/40 split folding seat tumbles forward, and there's cavernous cargo room for a small hatchback. According to Suzuki, total maximum cargo volume exceeds 54 cubic feet, making the SX4 roomier than the Caliber (48 cu.-ft.) or Fit (41.9 cu.-ft.), and it feels pretty big when you're sitting inside.