Skip to main content

1998
Suzuki Sidekick

Starts at:
$13,099
Shop options
New 1998 Suzuki Sidekick
See ratings
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Consumer rating
Owner reviewed vehicle score
Not rated
Safety rating
NHTSA tested vehicle score
Shop Cars.com
Browse cars & save your favorites
Dealers near you
Find & contact a dealership near you
no listings

We're not finding any listings in your area.
Change your location or search Cars.com to see more!

Change location

Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr JS Soft Top Manual 2WD
    Starts at
    $13,099
    24 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr JS Soft Top Auto 2WD
    Starts at
    $13,699
    23 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JS Hard Top Manual 2WD
    Starts at
    $14,399
    23 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr JX Soft Top Manual 4WD
    Starts at
    $14,869
    24 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JS Hard Top Auto 2WD
    Starts at
    $15,349
    22 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr JX Soft Top Auto 4WD
    Starts at
    $15,469
    23 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JX Hard Top Manual 4WD
    Starts at
    $15,999
    23 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JS Hard Top Manual 2WD Sport
    Starts at
    $16,899
    23 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JX Hard Top Auto 4WD
    Starts at
    $16,949
    22 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JS Hard Top Auto 2WD Sport
    Starts at
    $17,899
    21 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JX Hard Top Manual 4WD Sport
    Starts at
    $17,899
    23 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JX Hard Top Auto 4WD Sport
    Starts at
    $18,899
    21 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JLX Hard Top Manual 4WD Sport
    Starts at
    $19,399
    23 City / 25 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr JLX Hard Top Auto 4WD Sport
    Starts at
    $20,399
    21 City / 24 Hwy
    MPG
    4
    Seat capacity
    Gas L4
    Engine
    Four Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

The good & the bad

This vehicle doesn't have any good or bad insights yet.

Use our comparison tool to look at this model side-by-side with other vehicles or view the full specifications list .

Start your comparison

Expert 1998 Suzuki Sidekick review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Larry Printz
Full article
our expert's take

There are certain times in life when you feel a bit older than you did before.

I’m not old enough to remember the Beatles, but I am old enough to remember Gerald Ford’s WIN buttons.

However, age hadn’t really been a factor with me until I drove Suzuki’s top-of-the-line sport utility, the Sidekick Sport.

After spending a week in one of these little puppies, I’m supposing this vehicle speaks to the generation that wears caps backward. I wear mine forward, and I admit not fully understanding the Sidekick Sport’s appeal.

One appealing aspect is its handsome look. Crimson, with putty-colored body cladding, the squarish sport utility test vehicle looked like a baby Range Rover. The five-spoke aluminum wheels were sharp, adding a classy accent.

There are three trim levels, two-wheel drive JS, four-wheel-drive JX, and the top-drawer 4WD JLX. The difference between trim levels basically comes down to the level of equipment the vehicle contains. The JX gets manual locking hubs, with auto-locking hubs as an option; the JLX gets the auto-locking hubs as standard equipment. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are options on the JS and JX, but standard on the JLX.

The Sport is the top model in the Sidekick range. It rides a relatively short 97.6-inch wheelbase and measures about the length of a VW Golf at 162 or so inches long. This gives this vehicle great maneuverability in situations that would trap more monstrous sport utilities. But that short wheelbase also contributes to a bouncy, jerky ride.

Even though I found the ride somewhat punishing, it probably wouldn’t bother someone a decade younger who hasn’t suffered fully from the problems of a bad back.

Motivating this bouncy buggy is a 1.8-liter double overhead-cam aluminum engine that generates 120 horsepower and 114 foot-pounds of torque. Thankfully, Suzuki has tamed this vocal beast and the engine is now quiet enough not to drown out the radio. The power is adequate for this 2,998-pound vehicle, but borders on marginal in taxing situations.

Steering is quick, with as much body lean as you’d expect. Braking is adequate and uneventful.

Although there was no chance to test the 4WD,it engages with a shift lever. The vehicle must be stopped to engage it. The automatic locking hubs are well worth the price and recommended even if you must forsake another convenience item. After all, when you need the 4WD, you won’t want to get out of the vehicle to lock the hubs.

Although the engine is quieter, there’s still enough road and tire noise to compensate. Wind noise is well-controlled, although the tall shape of this vehicle, like so many sport utilities, makes it a victim of cross winds.

Inside, Suzuki’s economy-car heritage shines through, where the cabin is decked out in attractive, if inexpensive, materials. Ergonomics are a mixed bag.

The driver will find the front power window switches on the door, with rear win dow switches on the center console. Because of that, there’s no center console bin to store tapes, a cell phone or other junk that clutters up life.

The seating position is tall, giving the driver a commanding view of the road. But the seats are hard and flat, meaning my posterior fell asleep. To make matters worse, new side-impact laws have widened the door panel, meaning it intrudes on passenger space.

The AM-FM-cassette audio system has terrific imaging and some horribly tinny sound. Maybe it would be better if the engine did drown it out.

Cargo space is good, and there’s enough space for most normal loads with all seats in place. When additional space is needed, the seats fold forward to allow a roomy expanse to haul home a TV or computer. There are no cargo cover or cargo nets provided, though — a curious omission for a top trim line.

Two minor problems cropped up during the test period. With slightly more than 2,500 miles on the odometer, the keyless entry stopped working. Also, despite having a rigid ladder chassis, this vehicle had a plethora of small rattles — not surprising, given the hard ride.

Prices start at $14,399 for a 2WD JS. The least expensive 4WD starts at just $15,999, or about the price of a nicely equipped economy car. The test vehicle, a fully loaded unit, topped the bill at a breathtaking $20,829.

Even if the ultimate in comfort and convenience isn’t what this vehicle is about (low price is), it faces stiff competition in the marketplace from Honda (CRV), Toyota (RAV-4), Subaru (Forester) and Chevrolet (with the identical Tracker). That makes this a vehicle to try among a field of more refined competition.

But then again, maybe I’m just too old to fully understand it.

1998 Suzuki Sidekick Sport JLX Standard: 1.8-liter double overhead-cam four-cylinder engine, four-speed automatic transmission, automatic hubs, 4WD with two-speed transfer case, 215/65R16 tires with five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, full-size spare tire, tire cover, daytime running lamps, intermittent wipers, rear window defogger, tinted glass, vanity mirrors, map lights, air conditioning, dual air bags, keyless entry, Alpine four-speaker AM-FM-cassette stereo, cruise control, power windows, power door locks, dual remote mirrors. Options: None Base price: $20,399 As tested: $20,829 EPA rating: 21 mpg city, 24 mpg highway

1998 Suzuki Sidekick review: Our expert's take
By Larry Printz

There are certain times in life when you feel a bit older than you did before.

I’m not old enough to remember the Beatles, but I am old enough to remember Gerald Ford’s WIN buttons.

However, age hadn’t really been a factor with me until I drove Suzuki’s top-of-the-line sport utility, the Sidekick Sport.

After spending a week in one of these little puppies, I’m supposing this vehicle speaks to the generation that wears caps backward. I wear mine forward, and I admit not fully understanding the Sidekick Sport’s appeal.

One appealing aspect is its handsome look. Crimson, with putty-colored body cladding, the squarish sport utility test vehicle looked like a baby Range Rover. The five-spoke aluminum wheels were sharp, adding a classy accent.

There are three trim levels, two-wheel drive JS, four-wheel-drive JX, and the top-drawer 4WD JLX. The difference between trim levels basically comes down to the level of equipment the vehicle contains. The JX gets manual locking hubs, with auto-locking hubs as an option; the JLX gets the auto-locking hubs as standard equipment. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are options on the JS and JX, but standard on the JLX.

The Sport is the top model in the Sidekick range. It rides a relatively short 97.6-inch wheelbase and measures about the length of a VW Golf at 162 or so inches long. This gives this vehicle great maneuverability in situations that would trap more monstrous sport utilities. But that short wheelbase also contributes to a bouncy, jerky ride.

Even though I found the ride somewhat punishing, it probably wouldn’t bother someone a decade younger who hasn’t suffered fully from the problems of a bad back.

Motivating this bouncy buggy is a 1.8-liter double overhead-cam aluminum engine that generates 120 horsepower and 114 foot-pounds of torque. Thankfully, Suzuki has tamed this vocal beast and the engine is now quiet enough not to drown out the radio. The power is adequate for this 2,998-pound vehicle, but borders on marginal in taxing situations.

Steering is quick, with as much body lean as you’d expect. Braking is adequate and uneventful.

Although there was no chance to test the 4WD,it engages with a shift lever. The vehicle must be stopped to engage it. The automatic locking hubs are well worth the price and recommended even if you must forsake another convenience item. After all, when you need the 4WD, you won’t want to get out of the vehicle to lock the hubs.

Although the engine is quieter, there’s still enough road and tire noise to compensate. Wind noise is well-controlled, although the tall shape of this vehicle, like so many sport utilities, makes it a victim of cross winds.

Inside, Suzuki’s economy-car heritage shines through, where the cabin is decked out in attractive, if inexpensive, materials. Ergonomics are a mixed bag.

The driver will find the front power window switches on the door, with rear win dow switches on the center console. Because of that, there’s no center console bin to store tapes, a cell phone or other junk that clutters up life.

The seating position is tall, giving the driver a commanding view of the road. But the seats are hard and flat, meaning my posterior fell asleep. To make matters worse, new side-impact laws have widened the door panel, meaning it intrudes on passenger space.

The AM-FM-cassette audio system has terrific imaging and some horribly tinny sound. Maybe it would be better if the engine did drown it out.

Cargo space is good, and there’s enough space for most normal loads with all seats in place. When additional space is needed, the seats fold forward to allow a roomy expanse to haul home a TV or computer. There are no cargo cover or cargo nets provided, though — a curious omission for a top trim line.

Two minor problems cropped up during the test period. With slightly more than 2,500 miles on the odometer, the keyless entry stopped working. Also, despite having a rigid ladder chassis, this vehicle had a plethora of small rattles — not surprising, given the hard ride.

Prices start at $14,399 for a 2WD JS. The least expensive 4WD starts at just $15,999, or about the price of a nicely equipped economy car. The test vehicle, a fully loaded unit, topped the bill at a breathtaking $20,829.

Even if the ultimate in comfort and convenience isn’t what this vehicle is about (low price is), it faces stiff competition in the marketplace from Honda (CRV), Toyota (RAV-4), Subaru (Forester) and Chevrolet (with the identical Tracker). That makes this a vehicle to try among a field of more refined competition.

But then again, maybe I’m just too old to fully understand it.

1998 Suzuki Sidekick Sport JLX Standard: 1.8-liter double overhead-cam four-cylinder engine, four-speed automatic transmission, automatic hubs, 4WD with two-speed transfer case, 215/65R16 tires with five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, full-size spare tire, tire cover, daytime running lamps, intermittent wipers, rear window defogger, tinted glass, vanity mirrors, map lights, air conditioning, dual air bags, keyless entry, Alpine four-speaker AM-FM-cassette stereo, cruise control, power windows, power door locks, dual remote mirrors. Options: None Base price: $20,399 As tested: $20,829 EPA rating: 21 mpg city, 24 mpg highway

Factory warranties

Basic
3 years / 36,000 miles
Corrosion
3 years
Powertrain
3 years / 36,000 miles

Consumer reviews

4.4 / 5
Based on 5 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.1
Interior 4.4
Performance 3.9
Value 5.0
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 4.9

Most recent

  • basic manual 4x4, total fun, run 100% @-30 or 90f

    solid re-do project car or drive as is currently on road summers in NY , passes tough inspection yearly. Rag top has never been down, only body work needed is sprung drivers door from 60 mph wind gust.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fun to drive! Great value for the money!

    This car is really in it's own league. It looks like a toy and you can get it really cheap. At the first look it seems to be small, underpowered, etc. But once you start driving it, you start really appreciating this little SUV. First, it's surprisingly comfortable. The sits are comfortable, the windows give you great view and the controls are very ergonomic. Second, once you take the top down - it's a great convertible. Third, the gas mileage is great if you compare to similar SUVs. The cat gets rust spots easily, but besides that it's built really tough and can take some serious abuse without much damage. It's very small and easy to park. And does ok up to 75 mph on a freeway. The closest competitor would be Jeep, but it would probably cost double and gets much worse MPG. Basically it's a lot of fun to drive for a very little money. On the negative side, its an orphaned brand, so there are no Suzuki dealerships around and getting some parts could be hard.
    • 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
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great little SUV

    This little SUV packs a lot of features in it for the money. Very reliable, super in 4wd, and good gas mileage. The ride is a bit rough and the initial acceleration is a bit slow, but once you are at speed it holds it's own on the road. Pleny of front seat space. Rear seating is sparce. Carpo area is nice and has a huge rear access door. I've had it for over 5 years and drive it a lot in tough conditions and it has been a wonderful little truck. Cornering should be done carefully, though, as it is slightly top heavy as with many of the smaller SUVs.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fun toy to drive

    The sidekick might not be the biggest of the SUV/4x4 vehicles around but it is a bang for its but.The only bit of a downside I have found is the acceleration, but once you get going its a nice ride. The sidekick being a narrow tall vehicle neeeds to be watched taking any corners hard, bu same as most SUV's, to hard of a corner it could possibly tip. The 4x4 is great on the sidekick and will get you through just abot anything you put in front of it. If you are looking for a cheaper SUV and somthing with a 4 banger, i would definately reccommend this little guy, fun ride for sure. It has a nice roomy sideways opening hatch, can store alot.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Good car but a little dangerous

    This car runs great, but be careful turning corners its quick to flip. The only thing i dislike is the standard but i'm getting the hang of it and i'm starting to like it!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

Latest news from cars.com

See all news

FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 1998 Suzuki Sidekick?

The 1998 Suzuki Sidekick is available in 3 trim levels:

  • JLX (2 styles)
  • JS (6 styles)
  • JX (6 styles)

What is the MPG of the 1998 Suzuki Sidekick?

The 1998 Suzuki Sidekick offers up to 24 MPG in city driving and 26 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 1998 Suzuki Sidekick reliable?

The 1998 Suzuki Sidekick has an average reliability rating of 4.9 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1998 Suzuki Sidekick owners.

Is the 1998 Suzuki Sidekick a good SUV?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1998 Suzuki Sidekick. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.4 / 5
Based on 5 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.1
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 3.9
  • Value: 5.0
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 4.9
Your list was successfully saved.
 
 
 
 
Save list Compare
[{"cat":null,"stock_type":"used","bodystyle":"SUV","page_type":"research/make-model-year","oem_page":false,"search_fuel_types":["Gasoline Fuel"]}]