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2005
Suzuki Forenza

Starts at:
$13,449
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New 2005 Suzuki Forenza
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn S Manual
    Starts at
    $13,449
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn S Manual
    Starts at
    $13,949
    20 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn S Auto
    Starts at
    $14,349
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn S Auto
    Starts at
    $14,849
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LX Manual
    Starts at
    $15,349
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn LX Manual
    Starts at
    $15,849
    20 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn LX Auto
    Starts at
    $16,249
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn LX Auto
    Starts at
    $16,749
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn EX Auto
    Starts at
    $17,049
    22 City / 30 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn EX Auto
    Starts at
    $17,549
    20 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    5
    Seat capacity
    Gas I4
    Engine
    Front Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Notable features

Italian styling
Sedan and wagon body styles
126-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder
FWD
Manual or automatic

The good & the bad

The good

Value-priced
Appealing design
Easy six-window visibility
Fuel economy
Ride comfort

The bad

Unknown long-term reliability
Engine noise during acceleration
Resale value of sedan

Expert 2005 Suzuki Forenza review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Alicia Collins
Full article
our expert's take


When it comes to name brands, whether it’s fashion, food or cars, somehow the less popular get lost in translation. I admit I didn’t even consider Suzuki when I purchased a new vehicle a few years ago – the name just didn’t come to mind. I certainly considered foreign cars but I have to admit when it comes to name-brand foreign cars, I think Honda first.

Perhaps the 2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon isn’t as trendy or hip as other more recognizable vehicles, but there’s a lot this economical wagon has to offer. When I say economical, I mean this one won’t break the bank! It has a “kind of cute” look and a sleek design. The interior is comfortable and simplistic (but not in a boring sense). With a few homey touches this car could become a part of the family.

One area that could use some re-thinking: the Latch connectors. It took my husband (who happens to be a certified child car seat safety technician) nearly 10 minutes to install our son’s car seat. I gave up after about five minutes struggling with the Latch connectors, which are very difficult to reach. This poses a problem for my family, because at least once or twice a week we are switching my son’s car seat from one car to the next. I’m almost convinced to buy two additional car seats just so I don’t have to hassle with the installation each week.

There are no fancy automatic controls in this car. To unlock the car from inside I have to physically pull up on the door lock (oh the horror, I know, but this is something I am having trouble getting used to). After I park, I routinely reach for my purse with one hand while unlocking the door with the door handle – not in this car. I have to pull up on the lock to unlock the door. This is going to take years of reconditioning my brain, but I think I’ll get over it. Another thing I’m having trouble getting accustomed to is the shifter. To get it out of drive, I have to push down on the gear shift and then push it into park. I’m not even going to reveal how long it took me to figure this out.

The audio controls are easy to use and simple – it’s not a state-of-the-art stereo system but good enough for listening to CDs, cassettes and the radio. There are two staggered cupholders and a small center console storage compartment – not big enough to fit my CDs but good for snacks and tissues. There’s another storage bin below the radio that holds and charges my cell phone. Each door has storage area for toys, books or trash. There’s also a cleverly hidden pull-out storage drawer in the front passenger seat.

In the back, the center armrest folds down to reveal two cupholders. The back seats fold down in a snap, creating ample cargo space. The cargo area also offers more cleverly hidden storage compartments: two on the side and a plethora below the cargo floor; just lift, fold and viola. I can put my car junk (emergency road-side kit, water bottles, oil, etc.) in there so it doesn’t slide around while I’m driving.

Since NHTSA crash test results are not available on this model, I have to wonder how safe this car is for my family. Is a four-disc break system enough? If not, for $500 more I can get the antilock braking system, which eases my worries a bit. However, Suzuki does offer an Open Road Promise: ‘America’s Best Warranty’ (100,000 mile / seven year transferable), powertrain limited warranty, 24/7 road side assistance, and the warranty repair courtesy vehicle program.

Suzuki is working on its American image by aggressively introducing nine automobiles in just three years as well as the creation of the Suzuki Square Dealership. I’m so intrigued by this new concept I’m ready to fly to Dallas just to check it out. “Hey, honey why go to California this summer when we can go visit the Suzuki Square Dealership in Dallas?”

Suzuki Square Dealerships are being implemented as a new face for the car-buying experience. According to American Suzuki’s PR department, the new design provides for a more friendly and comfortable environment. It’s meant to feel like an open-air market: no offices, no closed doors, bold visual styling, and themed interior and exterior lifestyle displays. The contemporary feel and bright colors make for an “open-arms” welcome.

For its excellent price, ‘America’s Best Warranty’ and fun features, the 2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon might just be the next big name in economical choices for foreign cars.

*For more information on the Suzuki Forenza Wagon and its safety features visit Cars.com.

Let’s Talk Numbers LATCH connectors: 2 Passenger seating (including driver): 5

It’s the Little Things That Count Storage Compartments (puny, fair, ample, galore): ample Cargo/Trunk Space (puny, fair, ample, galore): ample

Sense and Style Family Friendly (not really, fair, great, excellent): fair-great Fun-Factor (None, some, good times, groove-on): some

2005 Suzuki Forenza review: Our expert's take
By Alicia Collins


When it comes to name brands, whether it’s fashion, food or cars, somehow the less popular get lost in translation. I admit I didn’t even consider Suzuki when I purchased a new vehicle a few years ago – the name just didn’t come to mind. I certainly considered foreign cars but I have to admit when it comes to name-brand foreign cars, I think Honda first.

Perhaps the 2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon isn’t as trendy or hip as other more recognizable vehicles, but there’s a lot this economical wagon has to offer. When I say economical, I mean this one won’t break the bank! It has a “kind of cute” look and a sleek design. The interior is comfortable and simplistic (but not in a boring sense). With a few homey touches this car could become a part of the family.

One area that could use some re-thinking: the Latch connectors. It took my husband (who happens to be a certified child car seat safety technician) nearly 10 minutes to install our son’s car seat. I gave up after about five minutes struggling with the Latch connectors, which are very difficult to reach. This poses a problem for my family, because at least once or twice a week we are switching my son’s car seat from one car to the next. I’m almost convinced to buy two additional car seats just so I don’t have to hassle with the installation each week.

There are no fancy automatic controls in this car. To unlock the car from inside I have to physically pull up on the door lock (oh the horror, I know, but this is something I am having trouble getting used to). After I park, I routinely reach for my purse with one hand while unlocking the door with the door handle – not in this car. I have to pull up on the lock to unlock the door. This is going to take years of reconditioning my brain, but I think I’ll get over it. Another thing I’m having trouble getting accustomed to is the shifter. To get it out of drive, I have to push down on the gear shift and then push it into park. I’m not even going to reveal how long it took me to figure this out.

The audio controls are easy to use and simple – it’s not a state-of-the-art stereo system but good enough for listening to CDs, cassettes and the radio. There are two staggered cupholders and a small center console storage compartment – not big enough to fit my CDs but good for snacks and tissues. There’s another storage bin below the radio that holds and charges my cell phone. Each door has storage area for toys, books or trash. There’s also a cleverly hidden pull-out storage drawer in the front passenger seat.

In the back, the center armrest folds down to reveal two cupholders. The back seats fold down in a snap, creating ample cargo space. The cargo area also offers more cleverly hidden storage compartments: two on the side and a plethora below the cargo floor; just lift, fold and viola. I can put my car junk (emergency road-side kit, water bottles, oil, etc.) in there so it doesn’t slide around while I’m driving.

Since NHTSA crash test results are not available on this model, I have to wonder how safe this car is for my family. Is a four-disc break system enough? If not, for $500 more I can get the antilock braking system, which eases my worries a bit. However, Suzuki does offer an Open Road Promise: ‘America’s Best Warranty’ (100,000 mile / seven year transferable), powertrain limited warranty, 24/7 road side assistance, and the warranty repair courtesy vehicle program.

Suzuki is working on its American image by aggressively introducing nine automobiles in just three years as well as the creation of the Suzuki Square Dealership. I’m so intrigued by this new concept I’m ready to fly to Dallas just to check it out. “Hey, honey why go to California this summer when we can go visit the Suzuki Square Dealership in Dallas?”

Suzuki Square Dealerships are being implemented as a new face for the car-buying experience. According to American Suzuki’s PR department, the new design provides for a more friendly and comfortable environment. It’s meant to feel like an open-air market: no offices, no closed doors, bold visual styling, and themed interior and exterior lifestyle displays. The contemporary feel and bright colors make for an “open-arms” welcome.

For its excellent price, ‘America’s Best Warranty’ and fun features, the 2005 Suzuki Forenza Wagon might just be the next big name in economical choices for foreign cars.

*For more information on the Suzuki Forenza Wagon and its safety features visit Cars.com.

Let’s Talk Numbers LATCH connectors: 2 Passenger seating (including driver): 5

It’s the Little Things That Count Storage Compartments (puny, fair, ample, galore): ample Cargo/Trunk Space (puny, fair, ample, galore): ample

Sense and Style Family Friendly (not really, fair, great, excellent): fair-great Fun-Factor (None, some, good times, groove-on): some

Safety review

Based on the 2005 Suzuki Forenza base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Nhtsa rollover rating
4/5

Factory warranties

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
3 years
Powertrain
7 years / 100,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
3 years / 36,000 miles

Consumer reviews

3.5 / 5
Based on 25 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.0
Interior 3.9
Performance 3.3
Value 3.9
Exterior 3.9
Reliability 3.6

Most recent

  • Next year my car will be 20 years old and has been a

    Next year my car will be 20 years old and has been a dependable, durable transportation vehicle. Love my Suzuki 2005 Firenza! But getting impossible to find a service center for it.
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most reliable vehicle I've ever had

    I bought a 05 Suzuki forenza for very little money & i really didn't expect this car to last long or be reliable at all but it has blown my expectations away! Easily the most reliable, easy to work on, cheap parts, very easy on gas. I would definitely recommend a Suzuki forenza to anyone looking for a great reliable car
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Good budget car for students

    If you are trying to find a good car in a tight budget, I really would recommend this little car! This car has a high MPG and interior is so comfy!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 4.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I've got a 2005 Suzuki forenza

    I'm very pleased with my Suzuki forenza I've had it a couple of weeks now it only has 82.000 miles on it the ride is really smooth and it has lots of power the owner installed a new timing belt and water pump at 80.000 so far it's been a good car for me
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • The worst car anyone could own.

    Everyone since i purchased the car i have been having nothng but problems. I am a college student that knows how to take car of a car. This car has gotten me to the mechanic shop and back. As a matter of fact it is in the shop right now. DO NOT invest your time not your money into this car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Really reliable for long distance traveling

    Went over my expectations , has been very reliable . My go to car when make a ling drive everything is good and in excellent conditions
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Waste of my money

    I have had nothing but trouble from the moment I got this car. I will not buy another Suzuki Forenza.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 2.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Suzuki forenza 2005

    Poor radio, poor paint, poor choices, poor design, poor gas mileage, poor lighting, poor keyless locks, poor locations for dealerships
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best car I've ever owned!

    I absolutely love this car! Very reliable. Easy to handle and gets pretty good gas mileage. I've taken two road trips in it, and I'm taking another one here soon. The only problem are the interior door handles. Three of them have snapped in half, but I bought identical replacements from Amazon. Great car for the money!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • best car I ever had

    Love my florenza , only had 2 problems since I bought her, she now has over a hundred thousand miles and still runs like new.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Overpaid???

    I believe I over paid for the Suzuki, especially because Suzuki is having a "Fire Sale", because they are no longer in the market to sell in the U.S.A.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 2.0
    1 person out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • WORST CAR BUYING EXPIRENCE EVER! STALLED 12X

    Top 5 Auto in Ithaca is a shady place to start, the guy Denny runs his operation out of a camper in an old parking lot. We drive from Corning to Ithaca and all the cars on the lot are beat to he11 I take it for a test drive with my parents (They know a lot about cars) and the check engine light comes on. Not a good sign but we keep going. We are at an intersection going onto route 13 and the brakes don't work well. Slamming them we stop well past the stop line into traffic and then it stalls. The light turns green but we cant go anywhere. Cars honking and then the light is red again but were still in the middle. My dad gets out to push (DOWN ROUTE 13!) in the rain. We finally manage to get back to the dealership by avoiding all red lights and shifting into neutral to slow down without braking, Denny didn't even apologize and told us that it was planned to be serviced the next day which was a lie.. We got out of there fast! DONT GO TO TOP 5 AUTO. DONT DRIVE THIS CAR. also huge dent in driver side bumper.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 2.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2005 Suzuki Forenza?

The 2005 Suzuki Forenza is available in 3 trim levels:

  • EX (2 styles)
  • LX (4 styles)
  • S (4 styles)

What is the MPG of the 2005 Suzuki Forenza?

The 2005 Suzuki Forenza offers up to 22 MPG in city driving and 30 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 2005 Suzuki Forenza reliable?

The 2005 Suzuki Forenza has an average reliability rating of 3.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2005 Suzuki Forenza owners.

Is the 2005 Suzuki Forenza a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2005 Suzuki Forenza. 72.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

3.5 / 5
Based on 25 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.0
  • Interior: 3.9
  • Performance: 3.3
  • Value: 3.9
  • Exterior: 3.9
  • Reliability: 3.6
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