Introduced in 2007, the Suzuki SX4 all-wheel drive hatchback is now called the Crossover, to distinguish it from the new-for-2008 SX4 Sport, which is a front-wheel-drive sedan.

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With a base price of $15,270, the SX4 Crossover is the least-expensive all-wheel-drive vehicle available in America. Though it is a true compact, with its interior versatility, the five-door Crossover is a practical all-purpose vehicle for young families

The SX4 is powered by a two-liter, four-cylinder engine putting out 143 horsepower with 136 pound-feet of torque, most powerful in the class, and competent in highway traffic. Power is transmitted through a manual five-speed gearbox, and a four-speed automatic is available.

Carrying a little extra weight relative to its competition, the Suzuki only manages 21 mpg city and 28 highway, but the car feels solid on the road, and the AWD system increases driving confidence. The AWD can be locked to increase rear traction, useful in mud and snow. The AWD can be switched to two-wheel drive, but doesn't that help mileage much, and sacrifices handling stability.

The SX4 also comes standard with six air bags, tire pressure monitor, and LATCH child-seat anchors. The optional Touring package is a no-brainer at the $1600 price, since it adds antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, traction and anti-skid control to the safety

On the exterior, the Crossover looks a little like a shrunken Mercedes SUV, with roof rails and blacked-out rocker panels and fender protectors. The cab-forward design and high roof line provide excellent visibility and the cabin feels light and airy inside. Alloy 16-inch wheels, providing 6.9 inches of road clearance, are standard.

Unlike some other sedans in this price range, the SX4 avoids gimmicks in its gauge layout, going for a simple center speedometer flanked by tach and tell-tale gauges in a single cluster in front of the driver. Similarly, convenience controls consist of large simple knobs in the center stack, with the audio on the same level as the steering wheel and HVAC controls below them.

The cloth upholstery comes in a small neat woven pattern which complements the nicely designed interior trim and high-quality plastic that should be practical and durable.

Even with the low price, the SX4 manages to include a variety of accessories that give it almost a luxury feeling. Included in the standard list are a complete audio system with convenient MP3 plug, automatic climate control, heated outside mirrors and fog lamps. The optional Touring package adds cruise control, and steering wheel audio controls. With the high greenhouse, interior headroom is more than adequate for tall passengers, and leg room is fine for all but the tallest rear passengers, but the rear seat is only wide enough for two adults.

With the rear seats in use, 10 cubic feet of luggage can be stowed in the nicely-configured interior space. Fold the rear seats down and over 54 cubic feet of cargo can be packed in.

As the least expensive five-door AWD on the market, the SX4 Crossover is an excellent choice for young drivers or new families, perfect for Saturday chores, trips to the warehouse market, and the occasional weekend in the mountains.