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Acceleration
"Test front-drive SX with manual transmission felt quite lively, an automatic
less so. AWD Aerios don't feel much slower than front-drive models."
Value
"Aerio is not as sporty or refined as top-rated rivals, and Suzuki sells far
fewer cars than most competitive brands, which hurts resale values. But these
small sedans and wagons excel as efficient, low-price commuter cars, and they
are among the few in this class to offer the all-weather traction of all-wheel
drive. "
Ride
"Generally stable at highway speeds, though gusty crosswinds can cause mild wander.
Tar strips, smaller bumps absorbed surprisingly well, but larger bumps can pound
through, causing jiggle and bounce."
Economy
Test FWD SX with manual transmission averaged 24.3-27.4 in mixed driving. No opportunity to measure with automatic transmission or AWD. Suzuki recommends regular-grade fuel.
Noise
"Wind, road noise intrude at even moderate speeds, and rough surfaces can induce
tinny body drumming, particularly on wagons. Engine coarse, loud at full throttle."
Comfort - Front
"Plenty of head room with standard height-adjustable driver seat, but tall drivers
may wish for more rearward seat travel. Firm, supportive seats mount high, help
ease entry/exit. Tall build, lowish dashtop combine for commanding forward view,
but thick rear pillars impede over-the-shoulder visibility."
Comfort - Rear
"Quite good for the exterior size. Wagon's tall roof affords ample head room.
Sedan's lower roof cramps passengers taller than 5-ft-9. Knee room slightly better
in sedan than wagon, but neither feels tight unless front seats are pushed far
back. Large doors ease entry/exit."
Controls
"Gauges clearly marked, easy to read. High-mounted radio and climate controls
simple to reach and adjust. Set-and-forget automatic climate controls are standard--an
unusual amenity in this price range. Solid cabin materials also impress for the
price."
Cargo Room
"Sedan's tall trunk is large for the class, but doesn't go far forward. Roomy
wagon's bumper-height cargo area easy to load, and removing floor panel reveals
several handy compartments. Note that AWD trims cargo volume by 3.1 cu ft in
sedans and 4.2 in wagons. All Aerios have split rear seatbacks that fold easily
and lay flat once headrests are removed and seat bottoms flipped forward. Handy
bins contribute to good interior storage. "
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