The SX4 AWD will now be available in two specification levels – SX4 AWD and SX4 AWD ‘S’ – mirroring the SX4 two-wheel drive range.

“With a starting price of just $21,990*, the addition of an entry level SX4 AWD will significantly strengthen the line-up and make all-wheel drive even more affordable to lifestyle hungry consumers,” said Suzuki Australia General Manager Tony Devers.

“A true cross-over, it offers customers the ideal vehicle to pursue an active lifestyle, but with the economy and practicality of a small car.”

Available only as a hatchback, the SX4 AWD will come standard with a 107 kW 2.0-litre engine, dual airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD, air conditioning and an MP3 compatible sound system with steering wheel mounted controls.

The SX4 AWD S model, priced at $24,990*, adds seat mounted side airbags, curtain airbags, keyless entry, cruise control, climate control air-conditioning, alloy wheels and fog lamps.

Both models feature Suzuki’s i-AWD (intelligent All Wheel Drive) system, a switch- able three mode 4x4 system (2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Lock) that delivers all wheel traction.

The Suzuki SX4 AWD features three driving modes:

• 2WD – Only the front wheels provide the drive in this mode, which is the most economical setting. The 2WD mode is ideal for driving conditions on dry surfaces.
• 4WD Auto – The standard mode for driving, almost all the torque is distributed to the front wheels. Torque going to the rear is automatically increased or decreased to match traction requirements in variable conditions such as when driving on slippery surfaces.
• 4WD Lock – Lock mode provides ample torque to rear wheels from start up for effective escapes in low traction conditions such as sand, mud or snow. The system automatically switches over to, and remains in 4WD Auto at speeds over 60 km/h.

The “intelligent” 4WD controller constantly monitors driving conditions in order to deliver the most efficient division of power. The key delivery component is the EMCD, an electronically controlled wet-type multi-plate clutch coupling, in which the degree of magnetic clutch action is modulated to match traction needs.

The coupling is regulated with an electrical current alternating between the two and four wheels drive modes and a simple rocker switch is mounted at the centre console enabling simple operation of the i-AWD system for the driver.

“The new model SX4 AWD represents excellent value for money. In the small car segment, no other vehicle comes close to matching its combination of practicality and all-wheel drive performance,” said Devers.

The new SX4 AWD will go on sale on 1st August, 2008.

PRICING (RRP)