Radical renewal without upsetting the starting point. The new Suzuki S-Cross changes profoundly but does so starting from the platform of the previous model, thus proposing the combination of hybrid engine, automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and crossover bodywork. All combined with a completely new style with an Italian imprint, thanks to the construction in Turin at the Suzuki European design center. Compared to the past, the new S-Cross has more decisive lines, starting from the massive front end up to the more marked bumpers. All emphasized by generously sized front and rear headlights.
Getting on board, the eye immediately falls on the large 9 ”touchscreen in the center of the dashboard, from which to manage the infotainment system and the connection with the smartphone thanks to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (the latter also with cable connection). The instrumentation in front of the driver, on the other hand, remains analogue, with the exception of a screen between the odometer and tachometer. Overall we appreciate the greater reactivity of the touch controls, while some plastics are far from the German or Korean competitors.
On-board comfort has been promoted, starting from the front seats up to the rear bench that can almost comfortably accommodate even three adults. Under the trunk item the capacity starts from 430 liters and reaches 1265.
Under the hood we find the 48 V mild hybrid engine where the 1.4 turbo petrol engine of 129 hp is combined with a small electric unit of just over 13 hp capable of significantly reducing emissions and consumption. Two types of transmission, six-speed manual or automatic with six-speed converter, both can be combined with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. To change the type of operation, on the versions with all-wheel drive it is sufficient to act on the control positioned on the central tunnel and choose between Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock. The system is electronically controlled and adapts the amount of torque to be distributed towards the rear wheels and communicates with the ESP system, engine management and other on-board systems to ensure the most appropriate response for each mode.
Tested in the version at the top of the Hybrid 1.4 StarView 4wd Allgrip AT offer, or with all-wheel drive and automatic transmission, the new S-Cross confirms its vocation as a vehicle suitable for everyday use but which at the time does not hold back when there is a light off-road route has to be tackled. Small defects such as the general level of on-board plastics or an absorption of the holes that are not among the softest, are quickly forgotten thanks to the excellent four-wheel drive system, for the high agility of movement and for a truly full optional equipment. From the Top + access version, there is no shortage of accessories such as level 2 Adas, 17 ”alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, the multimedia system with navigator and cameras with a 360 ° view. Prices? It starts at almost 29 thousand euros for two-wheel drive with manual gearbox.