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Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Review

OUR TEST CAR: 2014 SUZUKI SX4 1.6 Petrol 120 HP AllGrip Manual

 
You'd better pay attention when calling the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross names. The Japanese-designed, Hungarian-built model is sensitive to that, as its designation tells quite a story. This should be the second generation of the SX4, but it can't be completely regarded so, since the latter is still in production. Still, Suzuki wanted to keep this part of the badge in order to brag about their important contribution to both the crossover world (the "X") and that of four-wheel drive (the "4").
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross - Page - 1
The first SX4 was a bit of a hipster, mixing city abilities with a crossover nature “before it was cool”. After all, Suzuki was best known for making these two types of cars, urban performers and all-terrain models, so it was only natural to mix them together.

As for the "S-Cross" part of the name, it’s intended to sugar-coat the entire experience, as this is what the car needed. While Suzuki was out doing its thing, building dependable, practical vehicles, the rest of the world suddenly realized they need city crossovers, so the genre flourished.

Buying such a car nowadays can even become tiring, such is the width of the model range available. It all starts with the affordable Dacia Duster, moving on to more... elaborate vehicles, such as the Hyundai ix35/ Kia Sportage, the Skoda Yeti, VW Tiguan, the Nissan Qashqai and even the smaller Nissan Juke. There are other models to be listed here, but they don't fully overlap with the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross on the market. Some of them offer weird packages that don't justify their prices, such as the Peugeot 4008, while others are solely front-wheel drive, like the Renault Captur.

Surrounded by this new wave of competitors, some of which are already in their second generation, the S-Cross promises to rely on the aforementioned traditional values, while wrapping itself in a more modern approach, inside and out.

It all starts with the body of the SX4 S-Cross, which has not only grown visibly but also distinguishes itself from all the other models in Suzuki's current line-up. The S-Cross does this by adopting a bit of a funkier image, something to draw a tad more attention. The front and rear apron protection elements, beefier wheel arches, skid plates and roof rails represent the trekking gear.

Did we say trekking? Well, we should've used another word, since Trekking is a version of the Fiat 500 L that turns the vehicle into a front-wheel drive compact crossover. We have to talk about Fiat a little bit, as the Italians and Suzuki split paths after offering the Sedici and SX4 sister models. Nonetheless, Fiat's S-Cross competitor is not the 500 L Trekking, but the 500 X, which has yet to be launched.

As for the aforementioned growth, the S-Cross casts a 180 mm (7 inches) longer shadow and it's worth noting that out of this, 100 mm (3.9 inches) have gone into the wheelbase. The crossover is also 35 mm (1.38 inches) wider and 5 mm (0.2 inches) taller. While the old SX-4 was a hybrid crafted along the way when it came to the design, Suzuki took things to the next level with the S-Cross. Thus, aerodynamics played a more important role here. While Suzuki doesn't speak numbers, elements like the gently sloping roof line, as well as the low-draw wheels and door mirrors, tell the story.
Stepping inside Suzuki's SX4 S-Cross, we find a transformation that's just as thorough as the one we found on the exterior.

In both areas, the S-Cross leaps ahead of the Dacia Duster, offering more of an upmarket image.

The only drawback the S-Cross presents when compared to the French affair regards the infotainment part. While the Duster's facelift has brought the R-Link touchscreen infotainment display, such a gadget can't be found in the Suzuki, not even on the list of optional extras. Instead, the center console treats us with an audio system display and separate climate controls. The on-board computer goes even deeper into 90s territory, as you have to use the two sticks poking out the instrument cluster in order to operate it.

Other than that, the cabin offers a positive experience. You'll be able to tell the extra wheelbase from the very moment you come inside, with both front and rear passengers enjoying good space. The story continues at the back, where the 430 liters (15.2 cubic feet) luggage compartment is among the largest in the segment. If you decide it's hauling time, you'll appreciate the ease of folding the rear setbacks.

The visibility is good, while the optional panoramic sunroof, another aspect that positions the SX4 S-Cross ahead of the Dacia Duster, brings a pleasant experience for all occupants to enjoy – this can be opened almost fully.

Going deeper into the features topic, we'll mention the range-topping equipment level of our test car. This brings dual climate control, all-round electric windows and mirrors, as well as leather seats, which are heated up front. In addition, you receive a leather-wrapped multifunctional steering wheel, keyless entry, as well as an engine start button.

As far as the driver is concerned, the feeling remains that of a hatchback, albeit one that rides higher. Speaking of this, Suzuki has adapted itself to the market's requirements when it came to the ground clearance. Compared to the old SX4 came, the S-Cross drops 20 mm (0.8 inches) to 170 mm (6.7 inches).

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross - Page - 1
For now at least, this does feel like a benefit, since we're cruising through the city during rush hour and the S-Cross has that typical C-segment agility. And while some of its competitors, Duster included, have a sort of drivetrain inertia, making the driver aware of the friction going on under the car, the S-Cross belongs to the group of smoother operators.

Speaking of this, Suzuki has... simplified the engine range, so you can now choose between a 1.6-liter turbo diesel and a naturally-aspirated petrol unit of the same capacity. We drove the latter version, with a five-speed manual and the AllGrip 4WD system.

The engine feels just right for the car inside the city, while the long ratios of the manual favor fuel efficiency. As a result, we got 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) by driving moderately on urban roads. Out on the highway and, of course, at legal speeds, the efficiency increased to 6.2 l/100 km (38 US mpg). As for the overall figure, which also included moments of extra throttle, we registered 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg).

You can order front and rear parking sensors, as well as a rear view camera, but our tester wasn't equipped with any of that. While we'd never order an S-Cross in such a configuration, this was a good exercise for showing this Suzuki is easy to park.

In terms of suspension, it's never easy to achieve a good compromise between ride and handling when it comes to a crossover with passive suspension. The Japanese have done a decent job at this, and yet we recommend sticking to the 16-inch wheels if you're the kind that wants comfort. At least inside the city, this is the setup to choose.

In the end, it all depends on how much you'll be taking the SX4 S-Cross out on the open road. The series of high-speed, large-radius bends in the rear view mirror does require the larger -inch wheels, as there is enough body roll here.

On these roads, as well as on the highway, the S-Cross shows a fair handling, offering a little bit more than the Dacia Duster does.

The two aren't as close when it comes to the behavior of the all-wheel drive system though. The Suzuki comes with a locking Haldex center differential. In the quest for efficiency, this has fallen deep in love with the front axle, so it will try to give it as much power as possible. Under normal conditions, 100 percent of the zing goes to the front wheels. As for the rear, this can receive up to 50 percent of the power.

The split is done automatically, but the drive selector mode, which is ergonomically placed on the center console, does make a difference. Before we move on to explaining it, we have to mention this also alters the throttle response.

Most of the time, you'll find yourself in either Auto or Sport mode? The first one kind of kills the fun, as the throttle response is seriously slow. Once again, this is an effort to keep those fuel efficiency numbers as high as possible. In Sport, the SX4 S-Cross' improved low- and mid-range gas pedal mapping makes it appropriately responsive.

Returning to the aforementioned torque bias, the extra traction sent to the rear in case of front axle overload is there when talking about the Sport mode, but the difference is difficult to tell. In any of the two modes, the S-Cross feels more like a front-wheel drive car.
Fret not, critical situations won't see the car turn into an understeer monster, since the back does step in when necessary.

The silver knob also has two other modes. There's Snow, which softens the throttle response even further. This uses all-wheel drive, but will still try to focus on the front axle when possible. This leaves us with the Lock mode, which is pretty self-explanatory.

Take the Suzuki SX-4 S-Cross off the road and you'll feel an important difference compared to the Dacia Duster. While the latter showed a neutral handling with certain rear-out aspects, the Suzuki can't be persuaded to let the back step out.

In this workhorse mode, the Duster feels more solid, inviting you to push it harder into rugged driving territory. The difference resides more in the perception rather than in the actual technical package of the cars and you'll notice that the S-Cross manages to solve the off-road problem in a respectable manner.

The massive puddles around the car are ready to throw gravel at us and, while we do tackle them with relative ease, we're not feeling in the mood to plow through the terrain. There's no underbody protection and that median muffler seems to be in a vulnerable position, should the driving become truly rough. Suzuki has other models for that and S-Cross drivers receive just what they need: a car to get you out of difficult situations.

Back on the road, we notice just how determined the powertrain is to keep the efficiency in check. If you listen to the car's indications, you should be in fifth gear by the time you reach 50 or 60 km/h (mph).

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross - Page - 1
The engine delivers 120 hp at 6,000 rpm and 156 Nm (115 lb-ft) at 4,400 rpm. A glance at the performance figures, 11 seconds for the 0 to 100 km/h sprint and an 180 km/h (112 mph) top speed, place the S-Cross in the slower half of the class. In the real world though, the in-gear acceleration is a bit better than that, so the overall experience is fine.

Still, Suzuki couldn't help itself and gifted the SX4 S-Cross with a sporty steering wheel and gear shifter. The latter is hooked up to a five-speed manual that offers fair shifts. This nature of the steering wheel is a bit ironic, since the steering itself is numb in any kind of situation.

All in all, the package can sustain longer trips, but you'll have to mind the body roll at highway speeds.

The SX4 S-Cross is no stranger to the notion of safety though. In fact, this is an area where it excels. It all starts with the overall setup of the car, which determines you to keep things peaceful. With the help of features such as seven airbags, ESP and rear disc brakes, the S-Cross has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating.

Not surprisingly, the best word to describe Suzuki's SX4 S-Cross if "fair". This is how the driving experience feels, an impression also shared by the passengers.
Inside the city, the S-Cross has enough hatchbackness to keep you agile.

Out on the open road, the car's assets offer it a decent behavior. The conclusion also stands when it comes to getting off the road.

With the added interior space of the new generation, this Suzuki can also play the role of a family car. Everybody will appreciate the versatility and dependability of the Japanese model.

With the exception of the optional panoramic roof, there's still nothing here that makes you feel special. Then again, the positioning of the vehicle means such a request was not on the list. However, the greatest fault of the S-Cross remains the lack of a proper infotainment system.

When it comes to the pricing, you'll have to stick to the lower trims in order for the SX4 S-Cross to feel like a good purchase. Climb higher and the price of a well-gifted specimen will sit between EUR23,000 and EUR25,000, depending on the market.

If a balanced vehicle is what you need, the S-Cross makes a good choice. The Japanese model ticks plenty of boxes on the “buying an all-rounder” list.

Nonetheless, those with more specific requirements have plenty of superior alternatives. For instance, if you'll be spending most of your time inside the city, you can always go for a... lighter, FWD-only approach. This means you can reach out and grab a Nissan Qashqai or a Mitsubishi ASX in their lower trims. And should heavy showers on a Sunday morning bring an "it's off-roading time" smile on your face, you'll be better off with the more basic Dacia Duster. This feels extra solid in rugged terrain and can be about... one Dacia Sandero cheaper.

Come to think of it, Suzuki hasn't changed its ways all that much when it came to the approach used for the S-Cross. They've only given it a more modern wrap.
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Our SUZUKI Testdrives:

autoevolution Jul 2014
64
Value for money: 8/10
History
5
Exterior
6
Interior
6
In the city
8
Open road
5
Comfort
6
Tech facts
6
Gadgets
5
Safety
8
Conclusion
7
80user rating 48 votes
Rate this car!
 
Key Specs
USEU
Engine
1586
Fuel
Petrol
Power kw
88
Power hp
118
Power rpm
6000
Torque val
115
Torque rpm
4400
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Traction
AWD
Acceleration
11.8
Top speed
109 mph
Length
169.3 in
Width
69.5 in
Height
62 in
Wheelbase
102.4 in
Ground clearance
6.7 in
Cargo volume
15.2 CuFT
Weight
2734 lbs
Seating
5
Power
88 KW/118 BHP @ 6000 RPM
Torque
115 Lb-Ft @ 4400 RPM
Engine
1586
Fuel
Petrol
Power kw
88
Power hp
120
Power rpm
6000
Torque val
156
Torque rpm
4400
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Traction
AWD
Acceleration
12
Top speed
175 km/h
Length
4300 mm
Width
1765 mm
Height
1575 mm
Wheelbase
2600 mm
Ground clearance
170 mm
Cargo volume
430 L
Weight
1240 Kg
Seating
5
Power
88 KW/120 HP @ 6000 RPM
Torque
156 Nm @ 4400 RPM
fuel efficiency
mpgOfficialOurs
City34.629.4
Highway4738
Combined41.333.6
fuel efficiency
l/100kmOfficialOurs
City6.88
Highway56.2
Combined5.77
base price
$
22,200
base price
16,300
Photo gallery (40)
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross interior at nightSuzuki SX4 S-Cross drivingSuzuki SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-Cross driving in citySuzuki SX4 S-Cross city drivingSuzuki SX4 S-Cross open road drivingSuzuki SX4 S-Cross drivingSuzuki SX4 S-Cross frontSuzuki SX4 S-CrossSuzuki badge on SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-Cross low drag wheelsSuzuki SX4 S-Cross 17-inch wheelsSuzuki SX4 S-Cross side viewSuzuki SX4 S-Cross rearSuzuki SX4 S-Cross badgeSuzuki badge on SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-Cross luggage compartmentSuzuki SX4 S-Cross interior space: rearSuzuki SX4 S-Cross interior space: frontSuzuki SX4 S-Cross electric window controls abd door lockSuzuki SX4 S-Cross side airbagSuzuki SX4 S-Cross front seatsSuzuki SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-Cross interiorSuzuki SX4 S-Cross drive mode select knobSuzuki SX4 S-Cross rear seatsSuzuki SX4 S-Cross panoramic sunroofSuzuki SX4 S-Cross key fobSuzuki SX4 S-Cross interiorSuzuki SX4 S-Cross dashboardSuzuki SX4 S-Cross center consoleSuzuki SX4 S-Cross dashboard intrumentsSuzuki SX4 S-Cross 1.6-liter diesel engineSuzuki SX4 S-CrossSuzuki SX4 S-Cross handlingSuzuki SX4 S-Cross driving in the mudSuzuki SX4 S-Cross off the roadSuzuki SX4 S-Cross offroad drivingSuzuki SX4 S-Cross offroad