2005 Suzuki Reno Review

The new Suzuki Reno looks like the right car at the right time for cost-conscious young and first-time buyers, with a move by some of that crowd to functional, distinctive four-door hatchback autos.

The Reno is a hatchback version of Suzuki's compact Forenza sedan, which has a conventional trunk. It's the third model built for Suzuki by South Korea's Daewoo, which no longer makes vehicles under its own name but also assembles the Suzuki flagship Verona mid-size sedan with cooperation from General Motors.

The front-wheel-drive Reno has list prices ranging from $13,449 to $16,949, with entry S, mid-range LX and top-line EX trim levels.

One major Reno attraction is that even the S has such standard items as air conditioning, tilt wheel, split-folding rear seat and power windows and locks -- along with power heated outside mirrors. There's also an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 player sound system with steering wheel audio controls.

The LX adds significant items such as a power sunroof, cruise control, remote keyless entry and alloy wheels, while the EX adds an automatic transmission, leather upholstery and a standard four-speed automatic transmission.

Safety features include front side-mounted air bags and four-wheel disc brakes, instead of the usual, inferior front-disc/rear-drum brake setup. Anti-lock brakes are optional.

The Reno is covered by one of the longest warranties in the industry: a fully transferable 7-year/ 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty that includes roadside assistance.

Despite the warranty, don't expect the Reno to have the resale value of established Japanese vehicles.

Suzuki said my test EX was unusual because it had a five-speed manual gearbox and carried the same $16,149 list price of the lower line Reno LX with an automatic transmission.

I was happy with the test car because the manual gearbox helps provide the most performance with the Reno's 2-liter, 126-horsepower four-cylinder engine.

The small 16-valve engine provides lively acceleration to 65 mph, but average 65-75 mph passing on highways. Highway cruising is no problem, although the sophisticated dual-overhead-camshaft engine is noisy during hard acceleration from any speed.

Highway fuel economy is a plus, at an estimated 30 mpg, although estimated city economy is so-so for a 2,700-pound economy model at an estimated 22 mpg.

My test car got a few more miles per gallon in town because I immediately shifted from first to third or fourth gears -- the engine has sufficient torque to handle such shifts without engine protest. However, the clutch and gearshift lever have long throws that don't encourage sporty driving.

The speed-sensitive power steering is quick and has decent road feel, although it's a little heavy. The all-independent suspension provides a supple ride; it's helped by a fairly long (for a compact) 102.4-inch wheelbase. Handling is good if the Reno isn't pushed hard and braking is OK, with linear pedal action

The auto world is becoming increasingly multinational, so the Reno is styled by Italy's Italdesign studio. While slick, the styling is hardly in the knockout class, but there's only so much that can be done to make a practical small hatchback sedan look really good. No matter what the color, neighbors shouldn't think Reno buyers settled for a "cheap economy car'' -- if neighbors can even tell one small car from another these days.

Color is important here. For example, my test Reno had extremely bright red paint, which enhances the sporty appearance of nearly all small cars.

The Reno body style is certainly practical. It has a roomy interior for four tall adults. And the tailgate swings open to reveal a roomy cargo area, which can be significantly enlarged by flipping the flat-folding split rear seatbacks forward.

The front bucket seats offer good side support during emergency maneuvers or when snaking through curves, and instruments are easy to read quickly.

The interior generally looks good, despite a fair amount of hard plastic. Small radio controls are put above fairly large climate controls, which have a rather notchy action.

Front cupholders are set a little too far back on the console, but are decently sized. All doors have handy storage pockets.

The Reno lacks the refinement and performance of some rivals, but makes up for it by being well-equipped and generally attractive for the money, with an enticing warranty.

2005 SUZUKI RENO

PRICES
$13,449-$16,949

LIKES
Economical. Roomy. Well-equipped. Supple suspension. Long warranty.

DISLIKES
Rather heavy steering. Occasionally noisy engine. Average resale value.