New car help! Suzuki?

[onelilspark]

Hi all. I'm looking at starting a new job (I have 2 interviews in the works, pixie dust & fingers crossed!) My dilemma is that I currently have a company car, and prior to that I had a car my parents bought when I was 16. In other words: I know nothing about cars, I've never had to research, etc etc...so I'm totally out of my element.

Given where I live (snow belt!) I know it'd be easier for me to have a 4 Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive vehicle if I actually want to get anywhere in the winter. Both positions I'm looking at will have a decent commute. The thing is, since I'm not really used to having a car payment, I don't want to spend a lot. I'm not looking for anything major, basically the 4/AWD, power locks & windows, and an automatic.

The SX4 Crossover from Suzuki is currently on my radar. Does anything know about Suzukis? Are they good cars?

Does anyone have any other suggestions to look into?

 

[momof1princess]

if you're looking for a great, all-wheel drive crossover, i'm told the subaru outback (?...i think that's the name of it) is an excellent choice. in my area, the suzuki dealership, which is a little over an hour away, has a horrible service department record. if you're looking for low-cost, i'd check out the hyundai santa-fe. my neighbor had one, and loved it, but recently had to upgrade to a chevy tahoe, just before she had her 4th child, so she'd have room for everyone, lol.

 

[onelilspark]

Thanks, the only thing is that the Suzuki is $17,000. The Hyundai Santa Fe starts at almost $22 and the Outback is $23.

I wonder if the service department at your local one is indicative of the entire country, or just a bad egg.

 

[RC Fan]

A Subaru Impreza is a better alternative to the SX4. I have had several. They are great cars!