02/07/97
If it's worth 15 grand to you to be noticed, to have people chase you down at stop lights and ask, "what is that thing you're driving, it's really cute . . . ?" then get yourself a 28 mpg Suzuki X-90 all wheel drive two seater. Get it in red. You can also buy it in a 2WD version, and it comes with an automatic trans. The 5-speed is a must, however, if you want any sort of performance from the 95hp, four banger 16 valve motor. Think of it as a life preserver for a Range Rover. Rides like one, handles like its British cousin.
Susuki says they make cars that are fun to drive, and I guess they're right: the X-90 doesn't make any pretenses at high performance--you won't enter it in an SCCA showroom stock race at Willow Springs--but you will be noticed, you will get good gas mileage, and, depending on where YOU park, this vehicle is the answer to parking problems.
Up front the suspension is MacPherson struts and in the rear a solid axle rides on coil springs with trailing links. Its 86 inch wheelbase is just 20 inches longer than it is wide. The X-90 has power windows, door locks, air, cup holders, an Alpine stereo set-up, and ABS. Suzuki models are covered by a 36 month/36,000 mile warranty.
The Suzuki Motor Corporation was founded in 1920, and its products are distributed by 125 distributors in 126 countries.
Bill Maloney -- The Auto Channel
