Suzuki DR150 Designed for Practical Use on New Zealand Dairy Farms
While quads and LUVs are a major part of the rural landscape, on many New Zealand dairy farms 2-wheelers continue to be an important part of the logistics puzzle.
Looking for more practicality but still want to look a bit “outdoor-ish”?
Suzuki’s new S-Cross is the eventual replacement for the current SX4 range though for a while both models will be available here. Called a crossover vehicle, it is made to sit between a car and a small SUV.
Upright styling along with a raised seating position gives it that in-between feel most will be comfortable with. A real step-up styling wise from the old SX4, it has modern frontal design and a tall side profile which helps with entry and exit. Limited models are enhanced with LED headlamps and smart scuff plates on front, back and sides along with fog lamps and bigger alloys.
Inside, the raised seating position offers good, all-round visibility, though having the rear headrests lowered helps with rearward vision. A reversing camera is fitted as standard only to the limited spec version, as is the sat nav, and the air conditioning becomes dual-zone.
The interior is smart and practical but quite conservatively styled. Everything you would expect is there but the layout is not what you would call ‘cutting edge’. Being a Suzuki, howeve,r it is well put together and the materials are good quality. Overall it will age well and expect better than average reliability. Luggage space is vital in this class and the Suzuki offers plenty with 430L even with the seats up – a good result.
On the road, Rural News drove two versions, a GLX and a Limited both with Allgrip iAWD. This switchable 4WD system features sport, snow and lock modes, or an auto mode can make the decisions for you. The 4WD versions have a handy 165mm ground clearance so a little better than average if you do leave the tarmac.
Both cars we drove were automatic (CVT). I prefer a manual and I think it would make for a better drive in this case. Only the base GLX is available in manual form. With only 86kW and 156Nm on hand I don’t want to be wasting any. In saying that, performance is not bad. The cars only weigh about 1100-1200kg so they are quite nimble.
Pricing starts at $27,990 and the top spec Limited models can top $36,000 once on road costs are added. Suzuki offers a 5 year warranty and 5 year roadside assist.
www.suzuki.co.nz
