The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross SZ5 looks fantastic, especially with that all new chrome front grill dominating the front of the car and contrasting beautifully with the Energetic Red Pearl Metallic paint of the SZ5 model on test. With the Suzuki also sporting well designed front and rear skid plates, roof rails, LED projector headlights, a double sliding panoramic sunroof and stylish alloy wheels. The Suzuki looks fresh and interesting with the S-Cross managing to look different enough to get noticed whilst still offering the customer all the benefits that a SUV traditionally offers.
The original S-Cross was well known to offer a mix of value and specification back in 2013 and this all new 2017 edition is no different as it includes DAB digital radio, Bluetooth handsfree connection, USB connector, 4 speakers, Power adjustable door mirrors, Heated door mirrors, Satellite navigation, Rear parking camera, Front & rear parking sensors, Auto headlights & wipers, LED projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, Silver roof rails, 17″ Polished alloy wheels, Front foglamps, Dual-auto air conditioning, Rear privacy glass, Leather steering wheel, Keyless entry and start, Leather seats, Heated front seats, Panoramic sunroof, Radar Brake Support and Adaptive Cruise Control. Wow.
The cabin of the S-Cross really benefits from the addition of leather seats and a panoramic, opening sunroof and gives you a premium feeling once settled into the easily adjustable and comfortable front seat. Those in the rear are also well catered for as the seats are also comfortable with plenty of room to stretch out when the need arises.
And driving the Suzuki brings about more surprises. Technologies combine to provide you with a relaxing mile muncher, the suspension cosseting whilst still providing a quality of ride that allows for precision through the bends and most impressively, control. The S-Cross provides an acceptable 138bhp at 5500rpm, enough to thrill when necessary yet still relaxed enough for comfortable mile munching when the need arises. Driven sensibly or on a longer journey, you’ll also be able get close to Suzuki’s claimed 50.4mpg making this extremely economical for a crossover SUV and superb for this 1.4 Boosterjet Allgrip 4-cylinder petrol engine.
Suzuki’s excellent Allgrip four wheel drive system offers adaptive modes such as Auto mode, which prioritises fuel efficiency in everyday conditions, switching to 4WD to provide additional traction if wheel-spin is detected. Sport mode which actively engages 4WD based on steering and acceleration input to make the car more responsive along country lanes. Snow mode, when driving on powder, ice, rain and mud, giving crucial traction and stability if the conditions demand it. And finally, Lock mode which engages permanent 4WD if you get stuck in deep snow or mud. You really can have your cake and eat it with the S-Cross.
Starting at a quite incredible £16,449, with the SZ5 coming in at £23,749, you’re getting an absolute bargain. The price is one aspect that makes this Suzuki so appealing but then there’s the equipment on offer, the space available, the economy and that easy to use Allgrip system.
Perhaps Suzuki’s best kept secret?
Where will you go?