2008 Suzuki Forenza Review

The Forenza is a sedan that replaced the Esteem in 2004. The sedan appeared in 2004, and a wagon was introduced in 2005. In 2006, the optional leather upholstery was dropped, and the trims were renamed. No changes have been made since.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

When the Suzuki Forenza debuted, it was a competent, inexpensive car with the advantage of two distinct body styles. Unfortunately for Suzuki, competition has grown in the past couple of years, leaving it in the dust. These days, there are much better alternatives that offer more features and quality for the same price.

What's New For 2008:

Interior chrome door handles and fog lights are now standard. Bluetooth is now available. Only one trim is available.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Suzuki Forenza price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:

Gas Mileage:

Engine:

Horsepower:
RPM

Torque:
RPM

Transmission:

Drive:

Fuel Capacity:

Fuel Type:
diesel

Basic Warranty:

Powertrain Warranty:

Rust Warranty:

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Forenza 2 stars for mechanical quality, 3 stars for design quality, and 2.5 stars for performance. Problems include brake noise, cold start issues, damaged insulation, and harsh shifting. It's been recalled twice for a malfunctioning brake light switch and non-latching seat belts. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Forenza earned 4 stars in government crash tests. In IIHS tests, it earned "Acceptable" for the front and "Poor" for the side and rear. Front side airbags are standard. Anti-lock brakes are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Inexpensive
+ Generous powertrain warranty
+ Sedan or hatchback options

Cons
- Underpowered engine
- Poor crash test scores
- Small cargo area

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Honda Fit has standard ABS, more storage space, and gets up to 9 more miles to the gallon. The Hyundai Accent has more cargo room, ABS, and gets up to 8 more miles to the gallon. The Nissan Versa includes a CD changer, and gets 7 more miles in the city.

What Others Are Saying:

"As a car the Forenza is just OK, but as a wagon it's wonderful. The cargo area isn't quite as generous as wagons like the Ford Focus and VW Jetta, but it offers more room than the new generation of "sport wagons" such as the Toyota Matrix -- and besides, it clobbers 'em all on price." - About.com

"What a nice surprise! I was really pleased with the Suzuki Forenza....it looks good, rides nice, and fits almost anyone's pocketbook." - The Auto Channel

"In short, the Suzuki Forenza EX wagon turned out to be a well-equipped, low-priced reliable mode of transportation, but a more powerful and refined engine and drivetrain would go a long way to making it a bit more than just an appliance on wheels." - Car and Driver

Read more about the 2008 Suzuki Forenza at the Suzuki manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, June 23, 2008 - Email to a friend

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