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Japanese SUV 4×4 With 2.0 Engine of 145 HP, Manual or Automatic Four-Speed Transmission and All-Wheel Drive Costs About R$ 45 Thousand and Delivers Comfort and Robustness; Meet the Suzuki SX4 2012.
Few remember, but the Suzuki SX4 2.0 4WD 2012 was one of the first compact SUVs sold in Brazil with permanent all-wheel drive, automatic or manual four-speed transmission and a 2.0 naturally aspirated engine with 145 hp. At that time, the model competed with giants like Honda HR-V and Ford EcoSport, but distinguished itself by bringing cutting-edge Japanese technology in a compact, robust car prepared for any terrain. Today, more than a decade later, it can be found in the used market for about R$ 45 thousand, according to the October 2025 FIPE Table, making it a rare option for those looking for performance, comfort, and all-wheel drive without spending much.
A Compact SUV With the Soul of an Adventurer
The SX4 was developed in partnership with the Italian Fiat, which used the same platform to create the Sedici, sold in Europe. In Brazil, Suzuki maintained the original Japanese project, focused on durability and drivability. The name “SX4” comes from “Sports Crossover 4×4” — a clear indication of the car’s adventurous DNA.
With 4.13 meters in length, 1.73 meters in width, and 2.50 meters in wheelbase, the model is compact on the outside but offers great internal space and an elevated driving position. Its ground clearance of 17.5 cm and the AllGrip 4WD system allowed it to tackle dirt roads, steep climbs, and wet surfaces with ease, something rare among urban cars of that time.
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The 4WD traction has three modes:
- 2WD, for urban use and greater economy;
- Auto, which automatically engages the rear wheels when there is a loss of traction;
- Lock, which distributes torque equally between the axles, ideal for mud and gravel.
This versatility made the SX4 a car that adapted to both daily city life and trips through the countryside or irregular terrain.
The Japanese Heart of 145 HP
Under the hood, the SX4 2012 features the reliable J20A engine, a 2.0 16V naturally aspirated with variable valve timing (VVT) and multi-point fuel injection. It delivers 145 hp at 6,000 rpm and 19.1 kgfm of torque at 4,000 rpm, combined with a CVT transmission with sequential mode and simulated gears.
The performance is satisfying: it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 185 km/h. The setup prioritizes smoothness and reliability, two hallmarks of Japanese engineering.
In the tests by Quatro Rodas, the SX4 showed fuel consumption of 7.5 km/l in the city and 10.5 km/l on the highway, respectable figures for a 4×4 SUV with an automatic transmission. Additionally, the car has a 50-liter tank, which ensures an average range of 500 km.
Comfort and Technology Above Average
The interior of the SX4 reflects the Japanese philosophy: simple, functional, and well built. The dashboard is ergonomic, the multifunction steering wheel feels good in hand, and the analog cluster is easy to read, with a central onboard computer.
Among the features, the model offers:
- digital air conditioning,
- leather seats,
- double panoramic sunroof,
- cruise control,
- front and side airbags,
- ABS brakes with EBD,
- 16-inch wheels with all-terrain tires,
- audio system with steering wheel controls,
- split and foldable rear seats,
- parking sensors and heated power mirrors.
The trunk has 270 liters, which can exceed 1,000 liters with the seats folded — enough for family trips or transporting equipment.
Simple Maintenance and Plenty of Reliability
Even though it is an imported car, the SX4 is not difficult to maintain. The operation is the same as that used in the Suzuki Grand Vitara 2.0, which makes it easier to find replacement parts in Brazil. Specialized workshops for Japanese cars handle the model with ease, and there is a wide availability of components in the aftermarket.
A full service costs around R$ 1,500 to R$ 2,000, with original replacement parts. Brake pads cost about R$ 350, front shock absorbers are around R$ 700 each, and filters, spark plugs, and belts are on par with medium national sedans.
Furthermore, the SX4 uses a timing chain, which eliminates the need for periodic timing belt changes, a significant maintenance cost advantage.
Insurance, depending on the driver’s profile, ranges from R$ 2,800 to R$ 3,500 annually, a low amount considering it’s an SUV with all-wheel drive.
An Underestimated but Complete Car
At the time of its launch, the SX4 cost around R$ 80 thousand — expensive by 2012 standards, which limited its sales in the country. However, those who bought the model rarely regretted it. The combination of 4×4 traction, comfort, durability, and accessible maintenance turned the SX4 into a highly valued niche car among enthusiasts.
Even with the end of Suzuki’s official operations in Brazil, the model continues to have good liquidity in the used market. Its reputation as a “hard-to-break” car and the fact that it shares parts with the Grand Vitara keep the demand stable.
An Affordable 4×4 With the Soul of a Premium SUV
The Suzuki SX4 2.0 4WD 2012 is a clear example of how Japanese engineering from the 2000s still impresses. For about R$ 45 thousand, you can take home a car with all-wheel drive, CVT transmission, powerful engine, and the comfort of a modern SUV.
Its balanced behavior, solid drivability, and reliability put it in a unique position among used cars priced up to R$ 50 thousand. It’s an ideal vehicle for those seeking robustness, technology, and all-wheel drive without paying a premium for a recent SUV.
With proper maintenance and regular servicing, the SX4 is one of those cars that can easily exceed 250,000 km without major interventions, keeping its original comfort and performance. A true Japanese survivor that continues to surprise those who rediscover it in the used market.
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