WomenWithWheels.com

2004 Suzuki Forenza EX and Verona EX TC
Two New Adaptable Compacts

Susan Frissell

Another pair of offerings has entered the compact car market: The Suzuki Forenza and its sister the Verona. We drove them back-to-back and liked them both. These all-new European-styled sedans expands Suzuki’s lineup to three passenger car nameplates and three SUV models.

We first saw the Forenza and Verona at the Chicago Auto Show a year ago and were looking forward to spending some time in them. Backed by an outstanding warranty, Suzuki has lots to offer potential car buyers.

The mid-size Verona is Suzuki’s flagship sedan, a great value but up against the likes of Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Verona’s claim to fame is its in-line six-cylinder engine, the only standard V6 in its class.

The Verona comes equipped with much that’s standard, including a full spare tire, fog lamps, keyless entry, power windows/locks/doors/heated mirrors and power tilt/slide sunroof, A/C, leather seating, heated seats and a 8-way power driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel and floor mats, among other things. This is an impressive list of goodies that on other cars in this category would surely be on the options list.

Driving the Verona is a pleasure. It’s responsive, comfortable and quiet. Added to our "daily driver" list, we give the Verona high points on an audio system with good sound, and a feeling of solidness. Not a fancy car, Verona is a worthy contender in a market that’s become rather benign.

In August of 2003 Suzuki introduced three trim levels in the Verona as 2004 models: S ($16,499); mid-level LX ($17,

799, and EX ($19,499). The Verona is one of nine new vehicles Suzuki will add to their lineup in the next four years. Much is standard on the entry-level Verona, and as you upgrade to top-of-the-line EX you get such goodies as a sunroof, heated leather seats, and eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat. Traction control is an option, and our vehicle was equipped with it ($500). However, with front-wheel-drive, it’s not a necessity.

Suzuki is counting on the fact that young families and singles alike move into the midsize class to get comfort and luxury. Verona is built on a unibody design, constructed for safety. Anti-lock brakes are standard on the LX and EX and all other safety features are standard on all three trim levels. Steering wheel mounted audiocontrols are standard on all levels as is the double-DIN AM/FM/CD/Cassette audio system.

Moving down just a notch, we test drove the new Suzuki Forenza EX. This great-looking four-door compact sedan is also available in three trim levels and competes with Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Believe it or not, the Forenza was designed by Pininfarina, the same folks who designed cars for Ferrari, Maserati and Alfa Romeo. The Forenza too, gives a solid feel when navigating urban roads. It’s quiet and responsive and easy on fuel.

We particularly liked the interior of the Forenza. The dash is contemporary with its metallic silver accents surrounding the gauges. The center-mounted speedometer stands out and is easily seen. At night, the instrument panel turns a jade green.

Rear leg and headroom is ample and four can ride comfortable all around. A fifth passenger could squeeze into the rear seats but it’s pushing it. As with the Verona, the rear seats are split/fold.

We enjoyed driving both new offerings from Suzuki and encourage potential car buyers looking in the compact and midsize class to give them a test drive. We think you’ll agree. Not only will you get a lot for your money, you’ll get the best warranty in the industry.