Power steering, tinted glass, intermittent wipers, and a rear window defogger are all standard equipment. The GLX adds cloth upholstery, bigger tires, a tach, and power mirrors and door locks, and more. Four adults can travel in comfort, but the fifth position in the back center is better suited to a small child. Remote latch releases make it easy to access the trunk, fuel door and engine compartment. The trunk is low-opening, flat and quite roomy.
All instruments are clearly visible, and most controls are well-placed.
Although it's a subcompact, the Esteem has not overlooked passenger and driver safety. It is equipped with side impact protection, dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes and child safety locks. The Suzuki Esteem delivers a very decent ride around town or on the highway. It is small and easy to park in town, and surprisingly suited to highway travel. There is little wind noise or crosswind sensitivity.