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.
Mechanical noise is about average for the subcompact sedan class.
The air conditioner has no effect on engine power. It shifted fairly smoothly and quietly. Although the Esteem was able to climb normal highway grades in overdrive, locking the overdrive out with a push of the button on the floor-mounted shift lever worked best on steep grades or twisty roads. Keeping up with city and commute traffic presents no problem. The Suzuki Esteem is a nice package at a reasonable price.