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Suzuki S-Cross GL FWD (2014)
by John Ewing,reviewed June 2014
Suzuki’s new S-Cross is the company’s successor to the SX4 and even carries a discreet SX4 badge on its rump, hidden amid the new moniker.
It’s bigger than the model it replaces and more than ever blurs the line between small hatchback and SUV. And like most cross-over style vehicles now, the entry-level GL is a front-wheel-drive model and comes in manual form. A CVT auto is optional.
The range includes mid and high-spec version and all-wheel-drive variants. It’s one of the cheaper offerings in the class, but still comes with all the expected safety features, including seven airbags, and scores a five-star ANCAP crash rating. Buyers of the GL miss out on a reversing camera or parking sensors, while all variants get a spacesaver spare. Bluetooth with audio streaming is standard, but on the GL proved fiddly and less intuitive than many systems to pair with and use.
The S-Cross offers a practical interior with a reasonable size cargo area that can be expanded, thanks to split rear seats that fold for a flat load area. Performance is acceptable and our five-speed manual, two-wheel-drive felt a little sprightlier than a CVT all-wheel-drive version we also sampled. The electric power steering is vague around centre, sharpening quickly as lock is applied, and lacks road feel. Handling is tidy and secure, though.
For
Price, practicality, safety
Against
Fiddly bluetooth, vague steering, spacesaver spare, no reverse camera/park sensors
Key features
AC, AW16, CC, CT, CD player (MP3 compatible and USB), bluetooth, roof rails
Safety
ABS, BA, EBD, ESC, TC, DFSCA, DKA, SBPT (front)
Car Details
Vehicle make |
Suzuki |
Vehicle model |
S-Cross GL FWD |
Vehicle type |
Small 2WD SUV Under $35,000 |
Year |
2014 |
Price when new |
$24,990 (driveaway) |
Current price range |
$ - $
|
ANCAP crash rating |
|
Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
Approved Repairers |
Our expert team of approved repairers can perform general and specialist repairs, including auto-electrical, air-conditioning, radiator repairs and automatic transmissions. |
Engine |
1.6-litre, petrol 4-cyl |
Max power |
86kW @ 6000rpm |
Max torque |
156Nm @ 4400rpm |
Acceleration to 100 km/h |
N/A |
Braking from 80 km/h |
N/A |
Driving wheels |
Front |
Fuel type |
ULP |
Economy ADR |
5.8 litres/100km |
Emissions rating |
|
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.