For three months, Suzuki is offering an incentive of free gas to any consumer who buys a 2009 Suzuki SX4 crossover or sedan.  In addition, it is offering a cash-back incentive of $2,000 on the SX4 models that come with a manual transmission.  Both deals are good through Aug. 31.

Suzuki’s offer of free gas might not be as effective as the gas offers that were around last year.  At only $2.63 per gallon around the nation, fuel prices don’t even come close to last year’s $4 per gallon.  Gas prices just aren’t as scary as they were in 2008.  And in terms of real money, the pre-paid fuel cars only equal about $300.

And as a general rule, giving people three free months of gas isn’t near as good as making a car that is more efficient.  The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla both eat up the SX4’s lunch when you’re talking about fuel economy and come with great new car warranties.