2005 Suzuki Reno Trims and Specs

As the base model for this new front-wheel drive compact hatchback, the 2005 Suzuki Reno S offers good value at a low price, thanks to a host of standard features. Power windows, locks, and heated mirrors, an 8-speaker sound system with CD/MP3 player, wheel-mounted audio controls, a tachometer, tilt and power steering, and intermittent wipers are all part of the S package. Its biggest downfall is its powertrain, fueled by a 126-hp, 2.0-liter DOHC I4 engine. Matched with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual, the engine puts out 131 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 RPM and gets a disappointing 22/30 mpg.

The 2005 Reno S seats four comfortably, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats. The trunk starts out at 8.8 cubic feet, but expands to 45.5 with the seats down. A cargo net can be added. The hatch rides on 15-inch steel wheels with all-season tires. 4-wheel disc brakes and dual front-side airbags add a measure of safety, with the option to add either 2 or 4-wheel ABS brakes. There are no other options for the S trim.

Sitting between the base and top-end trims in the lineup, the 2005 Suzuki Reno LX is front-wheel drive hatchback introduced this year. Riding on a full independent suspension, the LX shares the 2.0-liter DOHC I4 engine with the rest of the trims. Paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, the powertrain hits 126-hp and 131 ft-lbs of torque. For a compact hatch, however, the 22/30 fuel economy proves disappointing to owners.

Moving up to the LX adds a sunroof, cruise control, remote entry, 15-inch alloy wheels, a security system, and leather trim to the hatchback. It also gets a rear window wiper, though this is not intermittent like the front ones. Foglights and a rear spoiler are exterior upgrades. Already standard are a full power setup, wheel-mounted audio controls for the CD/MP3 player, an 8-speaker sound system, cupholders, a tachometer, heated mirrors, and tilt and powe steering. On the safety side, the 2005 Reno LX comes equipped with dual front-side airbags, daytime running lights, and 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS brakes are optional. The roomy hatch seats four, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats that expand the small 8.8 cubic foot trunk to 45.5 cubic feet. Passengers are treated to 42 inches of legroom up front and 36.7 in the back.

The new 2005 Suzuki Reno EX sits at the top end of this front-wheel drive hatchback lineup. Its major upgrade from the LX is leather upholstery. Otherwise, it offers the same long list of standard features, including a full power setup, a sunroof, remote entry, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, an 8-speaker CD/MP3 player, heated mirrors, and leather trim on the steering wheel and shifter. A rear spoiler and 15-inch alloy wheels decorate the exterior. A more pronounced spoiler comes with the optional Suzuki Works Techno package. Other standard conveniences include intermittent wipers, a rear window wiper, tilt and power steering, a tachometer, and an anti-theft device.

Though not rated in crash tests, the 2005 Reno EX provides 4-wheel disc brakes, foglights and daytime running lights, and dual front-side airbags. ABS brakes are an option. The whole package comes with a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Rear seats split-fold 60/40. The trunk holds 8.8 cubic feet, but opens up to 45.5 cubic feet. It can be outfitted with a cargo net. Under the hood is 2.0-liter DOHC I4 that delivers 126-hp and 131 ft-lbs of torque at 4000 RPM. A 4-speed automatic is the only transmission. Unlike the other trims, the 5-speed manual is not available on the EX.