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2002 Suzuki Aerio SX
Date: 26 July 2002
Miles: 6,000

Our first four months with this small Suzuki Aerio SX have produced rather large amounts of driving enjoyment. This little crossover vehicle is both useful and unusually savvy when it comes to getting around. That is as long as the trips aren't too long. The tall SX is far more an urban car than a long haul cruiser, being sensitive to crosswinds and the wake of tractor trailers. While 90 degree days put off any thoughts of winter, we are looking forward to testing the all-wheel drive Aerio SX due out this fall. We expect it will manage wet roads even better, and probably still deliver upwards of the 30.3 miles per gallon we've averaged after just over 6,000 miles. The Suzuki Aerio SX proves that even in the fast lane, good things come in small packages.

Date: 08 November 2002
Miles: 11,500

One of the new breed of small-tall-wagon crossover vehicles, our long term 2003 Suzuki Aerio SX is decked out in eye-catching body armor, and at only 2,700 pounds, has quite commendable stoplight-to-stoplight performance. Indeed, the SX makes good use of the 141-horsepower of its smooth revving 2.0-liter-4. Fuel economy continues to rise. We've averaged 31.1 miles per gallon after 7 months and 11,500 miles. We're glad the SX is also now available with all-wheel drive, which really gives this tiny hauler the versatility it promises. The interior is smart as well as roomy. While we still hate the speedometer shape, we find fabrics and materials are holding up well. Indeed our only problem with the SX was self-inflicted. One of our staff went a bit deep in a pothole and bent a rim. The only other log book complaint is somewhat higher road noise than when new. So, it's hard to find any big wants for the tidy Aerio SX.

Date: 10 January 2003
Miles: 15,000

If you've watched MotorWeek lately, you know we're quite taken with the 2003 Suzuki Aerio SX, one of the new breed of small-tall-wagon crossover vehicles. Our SX has been a totally reliable commuter companion since last April. And, even with mostly suburb-to-town duties, we've still driven it nearly 15,000 miles Congestion is the right venue for the SX. At less than 14-feet long, and under 2,700 pounds, it's very maneuverable and has quite commendable stoplight-to-stoplight performance. Indeed, the SX makes good use of the 141-horsepower of its smooth-revving 2.0-liter-4 and energy-absorbing all-strut suspension. Despite stop and go, fuel economy continues to rise. The current test average stands at 31.4 mpg. While our Aerio is a front-driver, we think the optional all-wheel drive makes it the perfect ''city SUV.'' The Aerio is a tidy package that delivers more than it promises.

Date: 7 March 2003
Miles: 16,289

While our 2003 Suzuki Aerio SX is currently buried under a pile of snow, we would like to note that this front-wheel drive crossover vehicle still managed to get us through the worst of the big snow storms. Anyone buying an SX today should opt for the new all-wheel drive option. In 11 months we have managed 16,289 trouble-free miles, and averaged a very fine 31.0 miles per gallon. That fuel economy didn't come at the expense of driving enjoyment either. The Aerio's 141-horsepower engine revs freely with handling that's agile and fun. The SX is also extremely flexible with a cargo bay that can hold more than a Land Rover Freelander. So, if you are looking for a ''city SUV'', we like the Suzuki Aerio SX.

Date: 25 April 2003
Miles: 18,300

We're going to open the log book on our 2003 Suzuki Aerio SX one more time. During its 13 month stay with us, this little sporty hatchback has made around town travel and sprints to the airport and back downright fun. The Aerio SX, one of the new breed of small-tall-wagon crossover vehicles, has been a totally reliable, highly flexible companion. Congestion is the right venue for the SX. At less than 14-feet long and under 2,700 pounds, it's very maneuverable and has quite commendable stoplight-to-stoplight performance. Indeed, the SX makes good use of the 141-horsepower of its smooth revving 2.0-liter-4 and energy absorbing all-strut suspension. Plus, with 18,300 miles under its treads, it returned a very respectable 30.8 miles per gallon fuel economy. EPA estimates are 26 City and 32 Highway. As our little Suzuki departs us, we'll sum up our experiences by proclaiming the Aerio SX a very tidy, highly reliable, and fun to drive package that delivers more than it promises.