Suzuki was making SUVs way before we could even bring ourselves to actually call them SUVs. The Suzuki (Jimny) Sierra and Vitara were carrying out small-SUV duties decades ahead of any of their current rivals. So, you’d reckon the Japanese brand knows a thing or two about how to make a good small SUV and that the new Suzuki S Cross would be well worth a look, right? So, we’ve road tested the latest one.When we say S-Cross, it’s essentially the same car that debuted in 2014, but this one has been updated with new looks and a different engine. Suzuki also changed the naming of the grades – there are now only two – the base spec which is called Turbo and the top-spec Turbo Prestige which we’ve tested here. You can’t get the S-Cross with all-wheel drive any more, as well.
If you were going to compare the S-Cross to anything else then size it up against a Mitsubishi’s ASX, or Honda’s HR-V, or even a Toyota C-HR if you’re feeling like a quirky take on the small SUV thing.
So, what the heck is an S-Cross trying to be, and what’s it like to live with? What impressed us and what took the S out of S-Cross, and just made us cross?What are the key stats for the engine and transmission?
The new turbo engine is good, with plenty of oomph.
The next best thing Suzuki did is pull out the continuously variable transmission (CVT) and give it a six-speed automatic torque converter transmission, which doesn’t drone-on like the previous unit. There’s no manual gearbox offered on the S-Cross, by the way.
All S-Crosses are now front-wheel drive. If you’re looking for a four-wheel driveSuzuki the Vitara and Jimny Sierra ranges can help you out.
How much fuel does it consume?
Suzuki says the S-Cross should drink regular unleaded petrol at an average rate of 5.9L/100km. I obviously hammered our test car with 11.8L/100km recorded after mainly urban duties – more highway driving would lower that, however, closer to the Suzuki’s serving suggestion.
What safety equipment is fitted? What safety rating?
ANCAP safety rating
The Suzuki S-Cross has a maximum five-star ANCAP rating. Keep in mind, though, this is based on the original version from 2014 and the S-Cross doesn’t come with the high level of advanced safety equipment that you’ll find on many of its rivals, such as auto emergency braking (AEB).
For child seats there are three top-tether anchor points and two ISOFIX mountsacross the back seat.