Introduction: The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross – A Crossover Worth Your Attention
Suzuki may not be the first brand that comes to mind when you think of crossovers, but with the **Suzuki SX4 S-Cross**, the company aims to change that perception. This model is a serious contender in the competitive crossover market, offering a practical, family-friendly vehicle that balances style, space, and SUV-like features. While it may not have the flashiest design, the SX4 S-Cross provides everything a family needs in a crossover, without breaking the bank.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore why the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is a strong option in the crowded crossover market. From its performance to its practicality, this car is designed to meet the needs of modern families.
Design: Subtle but Practical
The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross might not turn heads like a **Nissan Qashqai**, but it has a design that’s practical and modern. The exterior features larger headlights and smoother lines compared to its predecessor, giving it a more muscular stance. While it doesn’t scream luxury, the design is simple, functional, and perfectly suited for the crossover segment.
At **4,300 mm long**, the S-Cross sits in the compact crossover category, yet offers ample space inside. The front features a raised bonnet and a new grille design, adding a subtle SUV feel. With its gentle curves and robust proportions, the S-Cross manages to balance its utility with a sense of solidity and strength.
Interior: Spacious and Comfortable
Step inside the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross, and you’ll find a cabin that feels more spacious than you might expect. The **430-liter boot** is one of the largest in its class, making it a practical choice for families who need plenty of room for shopping or luggage. Folding down the **60/40 split rear seats** expands this to **875 liters**, providing even more storage for larger items.
The interior design is straightforward but effective. Suzuki has opted for a no-nonsense approach, with easy-to-reach controls and a clean dashboard layout. Higher trims come with a **panoramic sunroof**, which brightens the cabin but may reduce headroom slightly for taller passengers. Still, the S-Cross is roomy enough to comfortably accommodate five adults, making it ideal for longer trips.
Performance: Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
When it comes to performance, the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross offers two main engine options: a **1.6-liter petrol** and a **1.6-liter diesel**. Both engines deliver **120 PS**, but the diesel version offers more torque, making it a better choice for drivers who frequently tow or drive long distances. The diesel engine provides **320 Nm of torque**, almost double that of the petrol variant, which has **156 Nm**.
The petrol version accelerates from 0-60 mph in about **11 seconds**, making it a solid choice for city driving. However, if you’re after more pulling power, the diesel engine is the way to go. It enables the S-Cross to tow up to **1,500 kg**, which is 300 kg more than the petrol version.
Handling and Ride Comfort
The SX4 S-Cross offers a smooth and comfortable ride, particularly when equipped with the optional **AllGrip four-wheel drive** system. This part-time system automatically distributes power between the front and rear wheels based on the road conditions, ensuring optimal traction in challenging situations. The **four-mode selector** allows you to choose between **Auto**, **Sport**, **Snow**, and **Lock** modes, depending on the terrain and driving conditions.
While the S-Cross doesn’t handle like a sports car, it offers predictable steering and solid body control. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even on rough roads, making it a great choice for urban environments. In **Sport mode**, up to 20% of the torque is diverted to the rear wheels, adding a bit of liveliness to the handling for more spirited driving.
Features: What You Get for the Price
The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is priced competitively, with a range that starts around **£15,000** and goes up to **£24,000** for higher-spec models. This pricing places it below many of its competitors, making it an attractive option for families on a budget. The value proposition becomes even stronger when you consider the standard equipment that Suzuki offers.
Even the base model comes with **16-inch alloy wheels**, **air conditioning**, **cruise control**, and **electric mirrors**. Stepping up to the **SZ4 trim** adds more premium features, including **daytime running lights**, **Bluetooth**, and **keyless entry**. For families looking for more comfort, the **SZ5 trim** includes **leather seats**, **a rearview camera**, and a **panoramic sunroof**.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The SX4 S-Cross also features a **7-inch touchscreen infotainment system** on higher trims, offering satellite navigation, smartphone integration through **Apple CarPlay** and **Android Auto**, and a **DAB radio**. The user interface is simple and easy to navigate, making it a user-friendly system for drivers of all ages. The inclusion of these features at such an affordable price point sets the S-Cross apart from some of its rivals.
Efficiency and Running Costs
The **diesel-powered** Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency. It offers an impressive **67.2 mpg** on the combined cycle and **110 g/km of CO2 emissions**, making it both economical and eco-friendly. Even the **AllGrip** four-wheel-drive model manages **64.2 mpg**, with emissions slightly higher at **114 g/km**.
The **1.6-liter petrol engine** is also fuel-efficient, offering **51.3 mpg** on the combined cycle. This makes the SX4 S-Cross one of the most efficient vehicles in its class, especially when compared to similarly sized crossovers. Suzuki has achieved these numbers by keeping the car’s weight low, with the lightest model weighing just **1,175 kg**.
Conclusion: A Crossover Worth Considering
The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross may not have the flashy appeal of some of its competitors, but it excels in practicality, affordability, and efficiency. Its spacious cabin, versatile storage options, and strong list of standard features make it a compelling choice for families who need a reliable crossover without breaking the bank.
If you’re in the market for a compact crossover, the SX4 S-Cross is definitely worth a test drive. It offers most of what you’d expect from more expensive models at a fraction of the price. While it may not be the sportiest or most luxurious option, it’s a solid, sensible choice that delivers on the essentials.
If you’d like to learn more or see the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross in action, check out this detailed video review here: Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Full Review.