2000 Suzuki Esteem

By Bob Storck

Suzuki introduced the Esteem with modest fanfare, and the Wagon established the car as a serious subcompact contender, with quality, refinement, and many features standard that are optional on the competition. Its styling has enough character in its sculptured metal to give it an identity, without getting radical.

Most of a station wagon's value is in how it packages the interior, and with the rear seats folded, there is a respectable 61 sq./ft of storage, enhanced by the roof rack. The spare tire well has a built in package tray, suitable for those hundreds of tools, travel items, and other must-haves.

In order to lessen criticism, Suzuki is going to the 122 hp 1.8 liter four cylinder engine in the near future.

There is an ongoing effort to add Suzuki dealers, but the cars are sold in 49 states, and plans are underway to increase the total to about 400, filling in the gaps and solidifying some of their weaker dealers.