2005 Suzuki Reno First Drive

Reno has a good shot at success because it offers more content than most of its competitors, and at a lower or competitive price. Strengths include the style, MP3 player, audio controls on the steering wheel, and power everything. The weak spot is pretty much limited to the engine compartment. There’s just not enough power -- young drivers who want zippy performance will not be wowed. Still, it's not the weakest member of the compact set. The Scion xA offers less horsepower, for example. And if you assume that this lack of performance translates into good gas mileage, you would assume wrong: at a 22/30 city/hwy rating, the Reno is among the worse in its class. Consider too that real mileage will likely be worse, as the tendency will be to drive the engine hard for more power. By way of comparison, the xA does 32/38, according to the EPA, and the Mazda3, a more powerful vehicle, gets 25/32 miles per out of its 160 hp engine. The Hyundai Elantra also has more power and better gas mileage. The Focus ZX5 offers 136 hp at around 26/35 mpg.

Despite poor power and fuel mileage ratings, the Reno offers young buyers a good value. A great standard equipment list, strong warranty and good looks – all for a low price – makes the Reno a serious part of the compact conversation. Balance that against less-than great gas mileage and a powder puff power plant, and young shoppers looking for a new car would do well to seriously consider the Reno. It’s a perfect complement to what is perhaps the best vehicle Suzuki currently offers – the Forenza compact. Add to it the emerging involvement of SWT – Suzuki Works Techno –and the Reno has the look, price, warranty and content that both parents and kids will want – without the free pez dispenser, or a gardener for Dad.