Value-priced to compete with the likes of the >Dodge Caliber, Honda Fit and the Mazda 3, the 2007 Suzuki SX4 comes in two trims with few optional upgrades. As the base model, the SX4 offers the same mechanicals and safety features as the more expensive XSport – though it misses out on several convenience items. Still, at a sticker price that's expected to start at $15,000 and top out at $19,000, base and XSport are admirably equipped.

On the standard features list for all SX4 models is all-wheel-drive, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 142 horsepower, your choice of either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, and 16-inch wheels. Common standard safety features include four-wheel disc antilock brakes and six airbags including side-impact and side-curtain bags. Inside, all SX4s get power windows and door locks, a tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, and a stereo with CD and MP3 capability. An optional Convenience Package can be purchased for the base SX4, offering cruise control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated radio controls.

The SX4 XSport comes fully equipped, adding Suzuki's electronic stability program (ESP) with traction control (TC), a SmartPass keyless entry and start, and an automatic climate control system. The XSport also gets a six-disc in-dash CD changer with seven speakers including a subwoofer, power heated mirrors, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with stereo controls, silver roof rails, and fog lamps.

Compared to the Dodge Caliber, one of the SX4's natural competitors, the Suzuki offers more at the base level but less at the top end. A Caliber SXT, for example, costs around $16,000, but for that you miss out on the SX4 XSport's all-wheel-drive, get less horsepower, and fewer convenience features than the Suzuki. At the top of the Caliber trim chart, however, sits an all-wheel-drive R/T model with 172 horsepower, which is 30 more than the SX4 XSport can muster. The Honda Fit, meanwhile, starts at around $1,000 less than a base SX4, but offers almost 40 less horsepower and doesn't come with all-wheel-drive. A base model Mazda3 s five-door is more expensive, starting at $17,370 and equipped with ABS and side airbags, but no all-wheel-drive system. The Mazda3 s suffers just a 26 pound weight penalty, so despite the SX4's peppy character, enthusiasts who live in temperate climates may prefer the sportier and more powerful Mazda 3.