SUZUKI’S SX4 S-Cross was already a highly acclaimed compact crossover thanks to its stylish design, performance and keen pricing.
And the Japanese marque’s all-new model for 2022 is sure to build on the success of the S-Cross. It has bolder exterior styling, is better equipped than its predecessor and features an impressive 1.4-litre petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology.
But it remains very competitively priced, with the lower of two trim levels – called Motion – starting at just £24,999 on the road.
I tested the top model – the Ultra spec, which is currently available with the engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel-drive set-up.
It has a forecourt tag starting at £29,799, which I feel represents excellent value for money, while I also think the new S-Cross has superb road manners.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the wheel of this SUV, whether on country back roads, around town or cruising on the motorway.
The mild-hybrid technology works in a number of ways to ensure the performance of the 129PS engine is both smooth and yet responsive when required.
The suspension does a good job of making sure the S-Cross remains composed even over weather-ravaged surfaces and the steering is nicely weighted.
Accelerator and brake responses also inspire confidence at the wheel – as does the excellent ALLGRIP Select four-wheel-drive technology that can anticipate slippage before it occurs.
Controls in the centre console give access to four drive modes, starting with auto, which uses two-wheel drive by default and is good for most driving situations.
Sport adds an element of fun for twisty roads, providing more oomph from the powertrain and maximising use of the four-wheel drive for cornering and acceleration.
Some pretty challenging weather in the hills south of Glasgow allowed me to discover how effective the snow mode was – the S-Cross didn’t miss a beat.
Finally, there’s a lock mode that uses a limited slip differential to help get the Suzuki out of trickier off-road conditions.
The performance stats are also good enough for most motorists’ needs. My test car is capable of hitting 62mph in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of 121mph. Average fuel economy, meanwhile, is rated at 47.8mpg, with CO2 emissions of 133g/km.
The interior is both spacious and comfortable – the Ultra coming with supportive, partial leather seats and a large panoramic sunroof.
The cabin feels solidly put together, too, with a sensible blend of soft-touch materials and durable plastics as befits a family transporter.
There’s room for a family of five or four adults and the boot offers a practical 430 litres of space, rising to 665 litres with the rear seats folded.
Pride of place at the top of the dashboard in the Ultra goes to a nine-inch, split-screen infotainment system that is significantly better than its predecessor.
As well as 3D sat nav, it has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a very good and helpful 360-degree view camera.
Functions include a 3D opening view to enable the driver to check surroundings before moving off and a bird’s eye view for safer parking.
The instrument binnacle, meanwhile, includes an informative 4.2in colour LCD display as well as clear and easily read dials.
Other goodies include the likes of keyless entry and start, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control with speed limiter, dual-zone air con, heated front seats and auto lights and wipers.
Safety systems are also more comprehensive than before, with automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning and prevention, weaving alert, traffic sign recognition and emergency call function among the highlights.
More robust, muscular looks compared with its predecessor ensured the new S-Cross sparked a fair bit of interest among my neighbours.
A big gloss black grille is framed by large headlamps linked by a smart chrome line and sculpted black fog light housings.
Larger, more angular wheel arches housing 17in alloys, plenty of black cladding and silver-coloured skid plates front and rear add to the boldness.
I also liked the chunky rear lights linked by a gloss black and chrome garnish that gave the back a powerful look.
But there is also a sense of refinement, thanks to smooth surfaces and lines, chrome window sills and aluminium roof rails, as well as an integrated rear spoiler.
Later this year, the S-Cross will be available with Suzuki’s AGS (Automated Gear Select) system that currently features on its Vitara sibling.
It feels like an ordinary automatic but has weight savings to ensure fuel efficiency. That option will surely add to the appeal of this fine Suzuki machine.
