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Suzuki SX4 MPG Real World Numbers

110 messages,  Last post on Feb 22, 2011 at 8:38 PM

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What is this discussion about? Suzuki SX4, SUV

Messages Page 12 of 12

#107 of 110 Re: Mileage on Interstate [arkainzeye] by sunlightcopper

Feb 22, 2011 (3:08 pm)

Replying to: arkainzeye (Nov 29, 2006 2:21 pm)
I just bought the 2001 SX4 Crossover AWD and my first tank averaged a dismal 18.7 mpg, driven 75% city, 25% hwy at an average speed of -about- 50 mph.
 
I was told fuel efficiency will improve after the car is run-in but I should not expect to see the 23/29 advertised on the window sticker. Any feedback on this, please? How mpg is supposed to improve with the car aging? Is it possible that there is something wrong with my brand-new SX4 and it is so fuel hungry?
 
Regarding the i-AWD, here's my understanding of it:
 
The selection switch, found to the right of the hand-brake, has 3 positions.
 
In the AUTO position (middle) all four wheels are engaged to the middle differential but at a 95% Front - 5% Rear, ratio. Essentially, FWD. However, if slippage is detected in the front wheels, the ratio is changed diverting more power to the rear wheels, up to a 40 F / 60 R). This is the preferrred selection for driving under light snowfall, moderate to heavy rain, on sand, gravel etc.
 
In the FWD position ( selector pushed front) the rear wheels are not and will never engage to the middle differential, making the SX4 a standard front wheel drive car. This is the preferrred selection for driving under normal conditions and Suzuki also says that best mpg can be achieved at this setting. (no wonder)
 
In the LOCK position (selector pushed back) both front and rear axles are permanently locked (i.e. not dynamically changing) into a 50/50 ratio, unless car speed exceeds -approx.- 36 mph, at which point the i-AWD system falls back to the AUTO position. This is the preferrred selection for driving in under extreme conditions and what one should use to get the car un-stuck from heavy snow, mud, sand and to drive in extremely slippery conditions.
 
Please comment with your feeedback, I believe the above description is quite accurate since it has been transferred from this year's SX4 brochure.

#108 of 110 Re: Fuel miles and mileage [victour] by gregg_vw

Feb 22, 2011 (5:39 pm)

Replying to: victour (Jul 30, 2010 8:54 pm)
Why is your tank only 10.1 gallons? The 2008 I have has an 11.9 gallon tank (still too small when the average mileage is 28, but still do-able). Thanks for pointing out the hatch lock/key fob thing.

#109 of 110 Re: Mileage on Interstate [sunlightcopper] by gregg_vw

Feb 22, 2011 (5:48 pm)

Replying to: sunlightcopper (Feb 22, 2011 3:08 pm)
Your mileage improves because as parts get broken in and seated, they get smoother and more efficient. You should easily get the window sticker mileage, since those mileage figures since 2008 are very conservative. A lot of people don't get EPA mileage because they normally drive at 75+ on the freeway, and then somehow expect highway mileage to be the same as it would be at 55 or 65. I have gotten an overall mpg of 28.7 (nearly 30,000 miles) on my 2008.

#110 of 110 Re: Mileage on Interstate [gregg_vw] by victour80

Feb 22, 2011 (8:38 pm)

Replying to: gregg_vw (Feb 22, 2011 5:48 pm)
I know the mileage seems low.. which is true for the size Car.. You got to remember this is 4x4 and I check my mileage at 75 on the interstate on 2 fill ups and it went along with the Compute for a Average 27 mpg.. with the Air off.. windows up and 35,000 miles on the Clock.. Very Happy this is a 140 Hp 4 cylinder so I don't expect the same as the 120 Hp of other brands.. I like the extra power if Needed and yes it is a Auto as well.. Using cruise control helps as well..

Messages Page 12 of 12

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