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SO YOU are ready for a smaller car but still need some luggage capacity?
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
Fifty years ago, Suzuki was a pioneer in developing a small Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) with fourwheel drive capability and low fuel consumption. Suzuki Development of the original Jimny in 1968 and the LJ10 Jimny arrived in 1970 it was the first mass production 4WD in the Japanese domestic mini-car category.
Suzuki was the first on four wheels right back in 1982, when Suzuki importer of the day Rod Coleman developed the successful LT125.
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