Five-door hatchback

In an era of look-alike sedans and hatches in the compact entry-level segment, Suzuki’s Reno gives consumers beautifully sculpted sheetmetal, careful attention to detail and a host of convenience and comfort features. In combination with a responsive 2.0 liter DOHC four-cylinder drivetrain, economy of operation and an ultra-competitive price point, the Reno constitutes a viable alternative for those consumers wanting both “show” and “go.”

2008 Suzuki Reno

For 2008, the Reno retains an extensive list of standard features and remains Suzuki’s most affordable vehicle. Sharing its basic drivetrain and platform with the larger Forenza, the Reno delivers its own persona with a design by Italdesign that embraces the upbeat personality typical of all Suzuki products.

As with all 2008 Suzuki vehicles, the Reno is backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-miles/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Smooth Performance

The smooth-running, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine produces 127 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 127 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,600 rpm. To remain environmentally friendly, the Reno meets strict ULEV-II emissions standards, and a newly-enhanced OBDII system improves diagnostic capability. The Reno earns an EPA fuel economy of 20 mpg/city and 28 mpg/highway with the standard five-speed manual and 19 mpg/city and 28 mpg/highway with the available four-speed automatic transmission.

A Full Complement of Safety Features

The 2008 Suzuki Reno provides the driver and passengers with multiple safety technologies, including an advanced dual-stage front airbag supplemental restraint system (SRS), advanced weight-sensing front passenger airbag SRS, and driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbag SRS. Additionally, the driver and front passenger seats feature three-point safety belts with pre-tensioners and height-adjustable shoulder belts; the rear seats also have three-point seatbelts and headrests for all three passengers. A LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) child seat system and child-safety rear door locks are standard for added safety. Finally, front and rear crumple zones, along with guard beams in the doors, help control impact energy to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The ABS option offers four-wheel, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).

Surprising Versatility for an Entry-level Car

The Reno makes the most of its five-door layout, functioning like a four-door sedan when transporting people, and as a cargo hauler when the 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks are folded. With the rear seats folded flat, it is easy to accommodate long, wide, or bulky items in the 45.4 cubic feet of cargo area. Interior space is generous, as the Reno features a long – relative to its overall length – 102.4-inch wheelbase and a wide stance.

The driver’s seat has height and lumbar-support adjustments, along with an adjustable headrest – all calculated to suit a wide variety of body types and sizes.

There are many dedicated storage areas in the Reno, including a lighted glove compartment, center console with dual cup holders, forward storage compartment, front and rear door compartments, dedicated sunglasses holder, driver-side coin tray, and driver and passenger seatback pockets. In addition, the interior is acoustically insulated to minimize engine noise, road noise and vibration.

The Reno’s interior is equipped with multiple power features and an impressive array of extras designed to make driving more enjoyable, including an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system.

Trim Levels and Packages

Standard Reno features include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, five-speed manual transmission (a smooth four-speed electronically controlled automatic with gated shifter and "hold" mode switch is offered as an option), tire pressure monitoring system, four-wheel independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, tilt steering wheel, power windows and door locks, dual sun visors with vanity mirrors, remote fuel door release, and premium features like air conditioning and heated power side mirrors. The starting MSRP for the Reno is $13,599 plus $625 destination and handling.

The Reno with Convenience Package adds remote keyless entry, steering-wheel-integrated audio controls, security alarm system and cruise control. The MSRP for the Reno with Convenience Package is $13,999. ABS with EBD is offered as an option.