A VEHICLE manufacturer has to be brave to launch a new model mid-winter, especially when the UK was in the grip of the worst cold spell for more than 30 years.
But such is the confidence Suzuki has in its compact SX4 crossover that it did not hesitate to do exactly that.
Not only did it showcase the up-rated two wheel drive versions, but it took the opportunity to demonstrate the flagship 4x4 2-litre diesel which is slated for UK showrooms next April.
The current range on offer includes the five speed 1.6 petrol SZ3 at £11,640, the 1.6 SZ4 at £12,225 and the automatic 1.6 at £13,280.
The line-up for 2010 is the result of a joint development programme between Suzuki and Fiat although the models are built by Suzuki in Hungary, and whilst they appear to have used Nissan's successful Qashqai as a benchmark, by combining all the elegance of a passenger car with the robust dynamism of an SUV, they nevertheless contain the same DNA found on other Suzuki models.
During a test on snow covered roads of the two wheel 1.6 petrol, it matched all driving requirements - a steady, no-nonsense performance in adverse weather conditions.
On the other hand, the top of the range 4x4 diesel proved effectively smooth off-road over snow covered estate tracks, and whilst I drove it hard in two wheel mode, auto lock and in full 4x4 guise, I could not fault the intelligent drive technology.
Whilst capable on and off-road performances are critical ingredients in the crossover's make-up, passenger comfort and safety are equally important, and the new SX4 range meets the criteria.
Sat on 16 inch alloys it boasts a spacious and refined interior. An ergonomic instrument panel complements the two tone decor and metallic coloured accents.
The new style LED back lit three dial cluster is easy non the eye and the seats wide, warm and cosy.
The ambience of the cabin is enhanced by extra bulkhead insulation cutting road noise almost entirely. The heater is superb, and the overall ride smooth and gentle.
In addition there are six airbags, ABS, EBD together with rear disc brakes for enhanced braking.
Large door mirrors help all round view, and the rigid body-shell plus the fine tuned suspension, add to the top class handling characteristics of this compact car.
With a luggage capacity ranging from 270 litres to 625, and a towing capacity (unbraked) of 1,200kg, the fuel consumption is quite good. The 1.6 5MT for example has a top speed of 115mph, CO2 emission rating of 143g/km, and a combined fuel return of 45.6mpg.
The 1.6 DDIS is even better returning 57.6mpg on the combined cycle and having a CO2 rating of 129g/km.
I like the cut of its jib, the specification and the pricing, but if pushed to chose the stand out model, I would wait for the big diesel which is still in the evaluation phase.
If we are going to suffer more snowy winters like this one, or intend towing on grass or sand in the summer, I feel its extra power and its intelligent all-wheel drive is the right combination.