Suzuki SX4 saloon (2009-2011)

If the standard Suzuki SX4 isn't quirky enough for you, there's this - the SX4 saloon. It adds a larger boot to the SX4's chunky supermini SUV looks, but unlike the hatchback, it only comes with front-wheel drive. There's only one engine choice, too, a 1.6-litre petrol, which offers decent running costs and performance. If you want to stand out in the small car crowd, there really is nothing like the SX4 saloon.

Emissions of 165g/km and economy of 41.5mpg mean the saloon won't cost a packet to run, although annual Road Tax is £165, while a number of alternative superminis are Road Tax-free. The lack of a diesel option is disappointing. Suzuki servicing is, in the main, affordably priced.

Performance from the 105bhp 1.6-litre petrol unit is, on paper, impressive – it sprints from 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds. Yet it doesn't feel as fast as that time would suggest. The engine pulls well, but at motorway speeds it sounds strained. The steering is light and direct, making the SX4 easy to park. However, in corners, body roll is pronounced.

The saloon's forgiving suspension soaks up bumps with ease. But noise from the engine and the road filter into the cabin. The tall roof means there's generous headroom for occupants, and the rear seats, which are set slightly higher than the front ones, provide a good view of the road ahead. Wide-opening doors make access easy, too.

At 515 litres, the saloon's boot is far bigger than the hatch's. The car's bulbous shape means that there's ample room inside – three adults can sit comfortably in the rear. In addition, the back seats fold 60:40 and there's a handy through-load hatch which allows you make the most of the available space.

In the past, Suzukis have been prasied for their excellent reliability. However, in this year's JD Power Satisfaction survey, the maker was ranked 25th out of 27 manufacturers, suggesting build quality isn't as solid as it once was. The cheap-feeling plastics in the cabin are an example of this. Safety is good, however, as the Suzuki gets front, side and curtain airbags as standard, as well as anti-lock brakes and brake force distribution.

The SX4 saloon offers good value for money. The saloon is generously equipped, with electric windows, air-conditioning, alloy wheels and keyless entry and starting as standard. However, the hatch, particularly in four-wheel-drive guise, holds more appeal, and resale values for the saloon aren't strong.