Introduction

The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is Suzuki’s attempt to make a serious play in the competitive crossover market. With a heritage in SUV manufacturing, Suzuki has a solid foundation, but their original SX4 model, which predated the Nissan Qashqai, never managed to make a significant impact. The SX4 S-Cross, however, aims to change that, offering more space, better technology, and a family-friendly design. But does it stand out in a crowded field? Let’s explore if it’s worth considering for your next crossover purchase.

Design and Size: A New Approach

The SX4 S-Cross is larger and more refined than its predecessor, with a design tailored to meet the demands of the modern crossover market. The vehicle now has a more substantial presence, but its overall look is still compact enough to retain the practicality that families need. Suzuki has crafted this model from the ground up, distancing itself from the previous version’s partnership with Fiat, allowing for a more coherent design language.
While it doesn’t quite stand out visually like the Nissan Qashqai, the SX4 S-Cross offers a more understated elegance. The sleek lines, large headlamps, and sturdy front grille give it a sense of durability and strength. The real advantage here is size: the SX4 S-Cross is bigger, giving families the space they need without venturing into full SUV territory. This additional size helps differentiate the SX4 S-Cross from smaller rivals like the Ford EcoSport and Vauxhall Mokka.

Performance: Built for Comfort, Not Sport

Unlike some crossovers that try to combine sportiness with practicality, the SX4 S-Cross focuses more on comfort and everyday usability. Suzuki knows how to make sporty cars—look no further than the Swift Sport—but they also understand that not every driver needs a high-performance vehicle for the daily school run.
The SX4 S-Cross is offered with two engine options: a 1.6-liter petrol and a 1.6-liter diesel. Both engines provide 120 PS, but the diesel offers much more torque—320 Nm compared to the petrol’s 156 Nm. This additional pulling power makes the diesel version more suitable for towing and long-distance driving. It’s also worth noting that the diesel variant achieves better fuel efficiency, with up to 67.2 miles per gallon on the combined cycle.
For drivers who don’t need the extra torque or efficiency, the petrol engine is a more affordable option. It performs reasonably well, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 11 seconds, a second faster than the diesel model. However, if you plan on towing or frequently driving in more challenging conditions, the diesel’s extra grunt will come in handy.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The ride comfort in the SX4 S-Cross is where this crossover shines. Suzuki has engineered this model to be more suited to urban and family driving rather than off-road adventures. The suspension is soft, soaking up bumps and uneven road surfaces with ease, though it doesn’t quite match the plush ride quality of the class-leading Nissan Qashqai. However, the trade-off is that the SX4 S-Cross provides better body control on twisty roads, giving drivers more confidence in handling.
If you opt for the AllGrip four-wheel-drive system, you get a vehicle capable of handling tougher road conditions. The AllGrip system offers four modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock. Most of the time, the car will operate in front-wheel drive unless it detects a loss of traction, in which case the rear wheels are engaged. The Sport mode sharpens the handling by diverting more torque to the rear wheels, making the vehicle more responsive on winding roads.

Interior: Spacious and Practical

Step inside the SX4 S-Cross, and you’ll find a cabin designed with families in mind. The interior may not scream luxury, but it is functional and well put together. Suzuki has improved the quality of materials used, though some plastics still feel a bit hard to the touch. Blue-ringed dials and silver trim help lift the overall ambiance.
The SX4 S-Cross offers plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, with ample leg and headroom. In the back, two adults can comfortably sit for long journeys, and the rear bench can accommodate three in a pinch. Suzuki has also added practical touches like bottle holders in every door and a sizeable glove box.
The boot space is competitive, with 430 liters available, expanding to 875 liters with the rear seats folded. The adjustable boot floor is a nice touch, allowing for a flat load bay, which makes loading bulky items easier.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs

The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross offers competitive fuel economy across both its petrol and diesel engines. The diesel version is the more efficient of the two, delivering 67.2 miles per gallon on the combined cycle and emitting just 110 grams of CO2 per kilometer. If you opt for the petrol version, you can still achieve an impressive 51.3 miles per gallon, making the SX4 S-Cross one of the more fuel-efficient options in the crossover market.
The four-wheel-drive versions of the car are slightly less efficient, but the impact on fuel economy is minimal. For example, the diesel AllGrip model achieves 64.2 miles per gallon, which is still excellent for a vehicle in this class.

Pricing and Value for Money

Suzuki has priced the SX4 S-Cross competitively, with prices ranging from £15,000 to £24,000 depending on the model and options selected. This pricing places the SX4 S-Cross at the more affordable end of the crossover spectrum, making it an attractive option for families looking for a spacious, efficient vehicle without breaking the bank.
In comparison to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-5, and Ford Kuga, the SX4 S-Cross offers similar space and practicality at a lower price point. The inclusion of features like AllGrip four-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, and an infotainment system with satellite navigation makes the SX4 S-Cross excellent value for money.

Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Families

The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross might not be the flashiest crossover on the market, but it excels where it matters most. It offers a spacious and practical interior, solid fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride. While it may not have the same brand recognition as some of its competitors, it delivers nearly everything you’d want in a family car, and at a lower price point.
After experiencing the SX4 S-Cross myself, I found that it holds its own against more popular models like the Qashqai. I also discovered that others who have driven it share similar positive experiences. If you’re interested in seeing a full review, check out this video: Suzuki SX4 S-Cross Full Review.