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Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Tested

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross driving 1 photo
Photo: original image by autoevolution
When it comes to the crossover phenomenon, Suzuki is a bit of a hipster. That’s because the Japanese carmaker made this sort of cars before it was cool and the first-generation SX4 is the perfect example of that. Nonetheless, now that the segment has exploded, practicality isn’t enough to bring sales, you also need the fancy stuff. This is where the new SX4 S-Cross steps in, promising to bring Suzuki’s approach in line with the new-age requirements.
Whether you peek at the SX4 S-Cross with interest or label it under “ugly”, you have to admit this has come a long way from what its predecessor, which, by the way, is still in production, offered. The fresh styling cues make the S-Cross look like a more serious proposal rather than a compact hatch on stilts.

Once you open the door, you notice the interior has brought an even greater generation gap. The new design is fit for these times, while the increase in dimensions (100 mm for the wheelbase, for instance) means this makes a proper family mover. Our biggest gripe with the cabin though, is the lack of an infotainment screen, even as an option. It looks like the 90s called the S-Cross interior designers, assuring them it’s OK to have a dash with a monochrome display. Touch-what?

On the road, the S-Cross displays a rather sedate character. All it cares for is to provide an experience that’s as dependable and frugal as possible and it wants to do this for every member in your family. The goal was achieved and we came to this conclusion upon spending a few days with an example powered by the 120 hp naturally-aspirated 1.6-liter petrol unit, working with a five-speed manual.

Our test car also came with the AllGrip all-wheel drive system. While this allowed us to engage in softroading activities, you shouldn’t take things further. Suzuki has listened to the market’s voice and hasn’t placed any focus on the rugged terrain driving. Thus, the ride height was slightly decreased, while the underbody can’t pride itself on featuring any protection.

Our drive included quite a lot of moments when the sky did all it could to stop us from driving the car. You can head over to our Suzuki SX4 S-Cross review in order to find out how the vehicle responded to the weather's caprices.
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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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