Compared Model: SX4 Sedan
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Comparative Automotive Research has identified no less than 56 advantages that the Volkswagen Golf has over the Suzuki SX4 Sedan.
| MSRP Range | |
| Volkswagen Golf | |
| Suzuki SX4 Sedan | |
Performance
Engine
The Golf's engines reach maximum power at lower RPM's than the SX4 Sedan's engines, as detailed below by trim and engine:
| Spec | ||||||
 | | | RPM's to Peak Torque | | RPM's to Peak HP | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 1750 | | 4000 | |
| SX4 Sedan Base 2.0L I4 | | 3500 | | 6200 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE 2.0L I4 | | 3500 | | 6200 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular 2.0L I4 | | 3500 | | 6000 | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE 2.0L I4 | | 3500 | | 6000 | |
With 236 lb-ft of torque, the standard engine in Golf 2.0L I4 has more low-end power than the standard engine in the SX4 Sedan 2.0L I4, which has 140 lb-ft of torque.
Power-to-weight ratio illustrates the relationship between curb weight and horsepower (Curb Weight / Horsepower). As a rule, the lower the ratio, the faster the vehicle. The Golf, has a lower power-to-weight ratio than the SX4 Sedan, as detailed below by trim level and engine:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Power To Weight Ratio | |
| Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 17.5 | |
| Golf 2.5L 4 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 18.2 | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 17.5 | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 18.2 | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 17.5 | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr. 2.5L I5 | | 18.2 | |
| SX4 Sedan Base 2.0L I4 | | 18.2 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE 2.0L I4 | | 18.2 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular 2.0L I4 | | 19.1 | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE 2.0L I4 | | 19.4 | |
Transmission
An adaptive automatic transmission is a computer-controlled system that automatically adapts response and performance according to driving styles and road conditions. For example, It is able to select optimal shift points and determine the proper gear necessary to climb steep grades or drive downhill. You are more likely to find this type of transmission in the Golf than the SX4 Sedan, as shown below:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Adaptive Automatic Transmission | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| SX4 Sedan | | Not Available | |
Manually interactive automatic transmissions give the driver complete gear control, like manually-shifted transmissions, but without the inconvenient clutch. This type of transmission is more commonly found in the Golf than the SX4 Sedan, as shown below:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Manually Interactive Automatic Transmission | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr. | | Optional | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr. | | Standard | |
| SX4 Sedan | | Not Available | |
Corrosion Warranty
Volkswagen's corrosion warranty provides better protection than Suzuki's. This warranty protects against rust-through (sheetmetal perforation).
| Spec | ||||
| | | Corrosion Warranty Months | |
| Golf | | 144 | |
| SX4 Sedan | | 60 | |
Fuel Economy and Emissions
The Golf has a larger fuel tank than the SX4 Sedan, 14.5 gal. vs. 13.2 gal. This may give it a greater range before having to stop to refuel.
The Golf is more fuel efficient than the SX4 Sedan. Superior fuel efficiency makes the Golf both more environmentally friendly and less expensive to operate than the SX4 Sedan.
| Spec | ||||||
| | | Fuel Economy Hwy | | Fuel Economy City | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. 2.0L I4 | | 42 mpg. | | 30 mpg. | |
| SX4 Sedan Base 2.0L I4 | | 33 mpg. | | 23 mpg. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE 2.0L I4 | | 33 mpg. | | 23 mpg. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular 2.0L I4 | | 32 mpg. | | 25 mpg. | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE 2.0L I4 | | 30 mpg. | | 23 mpg. | |
*Mileage statistics shown are for each vehicle with its standard transmission. Fuel economy is only compared for like engines (i.e. 4 cyl. to 4 cyl.)
The Golf gets more miles from a tank of fuel than the SX4 Sedan, as detailed below by trim and engine:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Driving Distance | |
| Golf | | 493 mi. | |
| SX4 Sedan Base 2.0L I4 | | 343.2 mi. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE 2.0L I4 | | 343.2 mi. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular 2.0L I4 | | 369.6 mi. | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE 2.0L I4 | | 343.2 mi. | |
Cost to Own
The base MSRP on the Golf is less than the base MSRP on the SX4 Sedan as shown in the table below.
| Spec | ||||
| | | Base Price MSRP | |
| Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. | | 17,995 | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE | | 18,199 | |
Airbags
Both the Golf and the SX4 Sedan feature Standard driver and passenger air bags.
General Safety
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, heavier vehicles are safer in collisions and less affected by crosswinds than lighter vehicles. The Golf is heavier than the SX4 Sedan, shown below by trim level and transmission type:
| Spec | ||||||
| | | Curb Weight MT | | Curb Weight AT | |
| Golf 2.5L 2 Dr. | | 2967 lbs. | | 3,023 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 2 Dr. | | 2994 lbs. | | 3,040 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.5L 4 Dr. | | 3027 lbs. | | 3,102 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI 4 Dr. | | 3073 lbs. | | 3,120 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 2 Dr. | | 2967 lbs. | | 3,023 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv 4 Dr. | | 3027 lbs. | | 3,102 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr. | | 2967 lbs. | | 3,023 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr. | | 3027 lbs. | | 3,102 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr. | | 2994 lbs. | | 3,040 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr. | | 3073 lbs. | | 3,120 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr. | | 2994 lbs. | | 3,040 lbs. | |
| Golf 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr. | | 3073 lbs. | | 3,120 lbs. | |
| SX4 Sedan Base | | 2734 lbs. | | - | |
| SX4 Sedan LE | | 2734 lbs. | | - | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular | | - | | 2,833 lbs. | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE | | - | | 2,866 lbs. | |
The Golf is equipped with Standard FWD.
Most modern fuel injection systems utilize a high-pressure fuel pump that can empty a vehicle fuel tank if the fuel line is severed as a result of an accident. The Golf features a Standard emergency fuel shutoff device that measures specific G-force impact, disabling power to the fuel pump if there is an accident, significantly reducing the chance of a hazardous fuel spill. This emergency system is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
Keyless entry increases your personal safety by enabling you to enter and exit your vehicle without fumbling with your keys. And, in addition, by letting you lock and unlock your vehicle without using your keys, it increases the chances that you will lock it. Of course, it also comes in handy when your hands are full. The Golf comes with Standard keyless entry while that feature is Optional on the SX4 Sedan LE.
The Golf is protected by a Standard anti-theft system to help protect your investment against theft and break in. Anti-theft is Optional on the SX4 Sedan.
An anti-theft stereo is offered as a Standard feature on the Golf. This provides a strong theft deterrent, as the radio is disabled and rendered useless when removed from the vehicle. This anti-theft feature is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
The Standard valet lockout feature gives Golf owners added peace of mind, allowing them to give a parking attendent a special 'valet key' that will operate the ignition and door but will not unlock interior storage compartments. Valet locket protection is Optional in the SX4 Sedan.
Wheel locks are special lug nuts that serve to deter wheel theft by requiring a 'key' for installation and removal. They are Standard equipment on the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) but are Not Available on the SX4 Sedan.
The Golf has a Standard rear spoiler, which creates additional downdraft at higher speeds, improving road holding ability. A rear spoiler is Optional on the SX4 Sedan (Base, LE, LE Popular).
High intensity discharge (HID) headlights are Standard on the Golf (2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) but Not Available SX4 Sedan. HID headlights offer several advantages - increased visibility due to significantly brighter light, longer lasting/more durable bulbs and much lower energy use.
The Golf features a Standard rear wiper which provides improved visibility by allowing the driver to clean the rear window. This feature is Not Available on the SX4 Sedan.
CapacitiesInterior Space
The Golf has more passenger volume than the SX4 Sedan, 92.9 cu. ft. vs. 89.0 cu. ft.
The Golf has more interior space than the SX4 Sedan in the following areas:
| Spec | ||||||
| | | Shoulder Room, Front | | Head Room, Rear | |
| Golf | | 54.7 in. | | 38.5 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan | | 53.3 in. | | 37.5 in. | |
Cargo Space
The Golf has a Standard rear seat pass through, allowing very long items, like snow skis to be transported inside the vehicle. A rear seat pass through is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
Standard second row fold-down armrests provide a place for the second row passengers to to rest their forearms for added comfort. Second row fold-down armrests are Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
The Golf offers a Standard cargo net that helps secure packages or groceries, while in the SX4 Sedan a cargo net is Optional.
Suspension and HandlingGeneral Suspension
The Golf has a independent rear suspension, which is superior to the semi-independent suspension used on the SX4 Sedan.
Chassis
The Golf is shorter than the SX4 Sedan, making it easier to handle and maneuver as detailed below:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Length | |
| Golf | | 165.4 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan Base | | 176.8 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE | | 176.8 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular | | 176.8 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE | | 177.6 in. | |
The 'track' (distance between the wheels), of the Golf is greater than that of the SX4 Sedan. A wider track produces better handling and a more stable ride.
| Spec | ||||||
| | | Track, Front | | Track, Rear | |
| Golf | | 60.7 in. | | 59.6 in. | |
| SX4 Sedan | | 59.1 in. | | 58.9 in. | |
The Golf's wheelbase is longer than the SX4 Sedan's, 101.5 in. vs. 98.4 in., producing a smoother ride and more stable handling.
Wheels and Tires
The lower profile tires (aspect ratio) that come standard on the Golf may provide better handling capability than those on the SX4 Sedan. Details below:
| Spec | ||||
| | | Tire Aspect Ratio | |
| Golf | | 45 | |
| SX4 Sedan Base | | 65 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE | | 65 | |
| SX4 Sedan LE Popular | | 65 | |
| SX4 Sedan Sport SE | | 50 | |
In addition to the obvious cosmetic benefit of alloy wheels, they are lighter than traditional steel wheels, providing better performance. Alloy wheels are Optional on the SX4 Sedan (Base, LE) but are offered as a Standard feature on the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.).
The Golf comes with a Standard full-size spare tire, a safer alternative to smaller temporary spares. In contrast, a full-size spare is Not Available on the SX4 Sedan.
AdvantagesAdditional Features
A heated front seat is Standard in the Golf (2.0L TDI 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.), providing additional comfort in very cold weather. This feature is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
The Golf (2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr.) features a Standard navigational aid system, providing maps, driving directions and location assistance. A navigation system is Optional in the SX4 Sedan (Base, LE, LE Popular).
Illuminated vanity mirrors are Standard in the Golf but Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
On long road trips in the Golf, drivers can engage the Standard cruise control, reducing fatigue. Cruise control is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan (Base, LE).
The Golf has a Standard engine compartment light, providing illumination to the engine compartment, especially helpful in the event of a nighttime breakdown. An engine compartment light is Not Available in the SX4 Sedan.
With a Standard power sunroof, a touch of a button is all Golf (2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Sunroof/Nav 4 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 2 Dr., 2.0L TDI w/Tech Pkg 4 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 2 Dr., 2.5L Conv/Sunroof 4 Dr.) owners need to let the sun or the stars shine in. In contrast, bringing in the great outdoors will be more difficult in the SX4 Sedan as a power sunroof is Not Available.
The Golf features Standard automatic headlights that control their on/off capability. Automatic headlights are Not Available on the SX4 Sedan.
Heated exterior mirrors are Standard on the Golf, keeping them clear and giving the driver improved visibility. That feature is Not Available on the SX4 Sedan.