Smooth quiet ride, like a luxury car, but in a small package
Least favorite feature:
Fuel economy is only 22/30. If Suzuki can get another 3-5 mpg out of this engine, they have a legitimate Civic/Corolla killer!
Advice to buyer:
Test drive it! This car sells itself with the quality of its ride!
Detailed review:
I noticed the Reno when doing online comparisons, and went for a test drive more out of a desire to cross it off my list than to seriously consider it. I really like the Reno, with the best balance of handling, power, sound system, and quality of materials & finish of any cars I've test-driven yet (including Focus, Scion xA, Elantra & Spectra).
My first impression of the car's interior is that of an upscale sedan (it is a close cousin to the Forenza, and maybe they didn't bother to 'cheap it out' for the hatchback version?) Nice carpets, gray seats with dark patterned seating areas, very clean dash and instruments. I got behind the wheel, pulled to the edge of the parking lot, hit the gas, and WOW. It's no muscle car, but after the anemic Spectra and Elantra, its 2.0L had very nice torque off the line. The auto trans shifted very deliberately but smoothly, pretty much at the points I would shift if I were driving a manual. It leaned a little in turns, but it always felt predictable and in control. At speeds up to 80 mph, it was rock-solid (I didn't go faster than that).
It has a sunroof which didn't noticeably cut into my headroom (I'm 6'-2'). My overall impression of this car is that of a very upscale car. Suzuki put enough sound deadening in the car to mute the engine noise so that it never seems louder than a refined growl inside the cabin. Much, MUCH better ride quality than the Scion xA.
The Reno made me feel connected to the road. The Elantra and Spectra felt more like cats trying to cross a stream without getting their paws wet.
The stereo was far superior than in the Elantra and Spectra as well. The Reno's single disc CD-Radio was more than competent. It didn't have a boomy sound at all.
Haven't bought a car yet, but this is right at the top of my list!
Also considered:
2005 Scion xA
2005 Hyundai Elantra
2005 Kia Spectra5
About This Reviewer...
Name:
Paul H.
Email address:
doohickie@charter.net
Location:
Fort Worth, Texas
Other vehicles owned:
2003 Ford Taurus
1999 Ford Escort
Review submitted:
July 22, 2005
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