The Suzuki S-Cross finally comes of age with sharper looks and a hybrid drivetrain.

PROS:

+ Good standard equipment

+ Peppy hybrid drivetrain

+ Suzuki reliability

CONS:

- Not as competitive on price

- Rear headroom

- Harsh interior plastics

Verdict: The new Suzuki S-Cross is a marked improvement over its predecessor in many areas. Its looks are considerably more fashion-conscious, there are plenty of toys as standard, and the hybrid drivetrain is certainly keen enough. However, competition is strong in this segment, and some rivals are notably more polished for similar money.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: walking around it 

The compact SUV segment is brimming with excellent choices that offer a bit more style than your average hatchback. Previously, the S-Cross could be seen as a bit lacking in this area, but this new model does a lot to change that.

A more pronounced silhouette makes it less anonymous in a car park, and the large grille combined with rakish headlights gives it a distinctive face. It’s maybe not quite as characterful as something like a Ford Puma or as stylish as a Peugeot 3008, but there’s no denying that the S-Cross design has finally matured.

All cars come with 17-inch alloy wheels and some hardy-looking roof rails. There are two trim levels, Motion and Ultra, with the visuals almost identical between these two. In fact, other than some jazzier alloy wheels on the range-topper, you’d be pushed to spot the difference.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: sitting inside it 

Just like the exterior, the interior has evolved into a more grown-up design. The dashboard is contoured and considerably more interesting to look at than before, while glossy finishes add some nice detailing.

The cabin features plenty of materials that will no doubt stand the test of time, but hard plastics do undermine the more premium tone of this design. Many rivals have strongly pushed upmarket, and so the lack of soft-touch surfaces creates a bit of a contrast. Don’t get us wrong, the build quality is strong, but this sort of car typically demands a sprinkle of luxury in one way or another.

Sat in the driver’s seat you can make the most of the car’s supportive posts and ample adjustment to get comfy. Of course, being an SUV you get that raised driving position, and by virtue of the SX4’s big glasshouse, excellent visibility all the way around.

All trims get things such as dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: using the tech 

The entry-level ‘Motion’ S-Cross comes with plenty of equipment including parking sensors, heated seats, a 4.2-inch digital driver’s screen, and a 7-inch touchscreen display. We’ve yet to encounter this particular screen, but it does feature Android Auto and Apple Car Play compatibility.

Ultra cars are granted a larger 9-inch infotainment screens that afford larger icons and prove easier to operate on the move. The user interface is simple and easy to use, however, we wished the screen would respond to touch inputs a little faster. In this instance, using something like Apple CarPlay yields the best experience. This trim also gets a handy 360-degree reversing camera.

The Suzuki S-Cross is impressively equipped in comparison to key competitors, something that will certainly factor into the buying decision of the money savvy.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: getting stuff in it 

The rear bench seats three with respectable legroom. That said, headroom feels a bit restrictive, especially with the panoramic roof fitted to Ultra models. Redemption is to be found in these posts being adjustable, sliding and reclining. Cars such as the Peugeot 3008 offer better rear space overall, but the Peugeot, in particular, lacks adjustable seating.

Boot space is a pleasing 430-litres – equal to that of the slightly larger new Nissan Qashqai. It features a nice square opening and an adjustable boot floor that can be a godsend when loading heavy items.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: driving it 

The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross keeps things simple when it comes to what and how it is powered. Every car gets a 1.4-litre petrol engine that is paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Entry-level Motion cars send for exclusively to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or optional automatic transmission.

If you want all-wheel drive, you’ll need to step up to an Ultra car where the traction-boosting system is standard. Suzuki’s SUVs are well known for their go-anywhere attitudes, and so many buyers will likely be drawn to the all-wheel drive car.

The powertrain delivers enthusiastic performance with its 127bhp going a long way thanks to the car weighing less than some rivals. This mild-hybrid features strong torque and actually feels pretty brisk as the revs climb. The standard six-speed manual gearbox hosts a nice short throw, although it can feel a little notchy at times. Its six-speed automatic option is impressively refined and is actually the transmission we’d recommend.

For an SUV, the S-Cross also handles pretty well. Responsive steering and a general lack of mass translates into agile changes of direction. Obviously, being a taller vehicle, there is some body roll, but the car always feels composed with ample grip on offer.

The ride can feel busy at low speeds over high-frequency bumps, but things notably improve as momentum builds. A little bit of wind noise aside, this S-Cross is a comfortable means of clocking the miles.

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: paying for it 

The new S-Cross starts at £24,999 and comes generously equipped from the get-go. Move up from Motion trim to Ultra – something you will need to do for an all-wheel drive car – and that will set you back £29,799. Suzuki has yet to publish the final number for monthly finance.

Front-wheel drive Motion cars are the most economical, claiming 53.2mpg. An all-wheel drive Ultra equivalent provides up to 47.8mpg. In comparison to competitors, these figures are favourable for a mild hybrid, however, business users might want to consider fully electric alternatives to maximise any potential BIK saving.

The good news is that while this is a new car and any talk of reliability is a prediction at this point, Suzuki has a great reputation. It has consistently built hardy products that will gladly take the punishment of family life. 

2022 Suzuki SX4 S-Cross: comparing it 

Defining the S-Cross’ rivals can be a little tricky because Suzuki is keen to mention cars like the Nissan Qashqai, but maybe a Renault Captur would be a better comparison?

The Nissan offers more passenger space as a slightly larger car, but it’s the Suzuki that wins out in terms of economy and value when equipment is considered.

A Peugeot 2008 might not be offered with all-wheel drive, or provide the same dependability, but it feels like a considerably more premium product.

The Suzuki S-Cross is a considerably more capable car than the Renault Captur, but the Renault is arguably more stylish and notably cheaper. 

FAQs

Q: How much boot space does the Suzuki S-Cross have?

A: The cargo volume is 430 litres.

Q: What are the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross’ dimensions?

A: 1,785mm wide – 4,300mm long – 1,585mm tall

Q: Is the Suzuki S-Cross a 4x4?

A: The entry-level motion S-Cross is front-wheel drive only, but all Ultra trim cars come standard with all-wheel drive. 

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