Suzuki SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS

What is it? 

The new Suzuki S-Cross, simply arrived on British streets. In fact it's a SX4 S-Cross, however even Suzuki concedes that the prefix is somewhat of a red herring. Since this new auto is clashing with hybrids in the class over: the Peugeot 3008, Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage. 

No one does 'shoddy and chipper' very as perfectly as this Japanese outfit. So regularly, autos at the spending end of the value range appear to be commendable and one-dimensional powerfully: in the midst of the cost-cutting, the driving background gets either overlooked or exiled to the base of the needs list. 

Never for Suzuki's situation, be that as it may. What's more, not in the SX4 S-Cross's, either. 

What's it like? 

Our first UK tester arrived in a range-topping four-wheel-drive diesel which, at £23.5k, might appear to be something of a defector to Suzuki's esteem first theory. Indeed, it sits at the leader of a range that undermines identical Qashqai costs by nearly £2000. 

This specific model is the principal auto that Suzuki has ever offered with a DAB radio, sat-nav, a turning around camera and a journey control as standard gear. 

The S-Cross is very low-ascent by hybrid models, yet has a raised and advantageous driving position and a major split-level boot. It isn't the most strong or forceful looking pseudo-4x4, yet the styling's perfect and tame: presumably spot on for the brand's resigning statistic. 

Inside, the auto's genuinely open, however not colossal. In gear rich SZ5 trim, the all encompassing sunroof eats into second-push headroom a lot; to such an extent that you wouldn't have any desire to return taller grown-ups there. 

With an ordinary rooftop, traveler space is aggressive – however lingers behind what's accessible in a 3008 or even a Skoda Yeti. Lodge quality is somewhat common, with just a couple of luxurious delicate touch completes, however it's all useful, hard-wearing stuff. It's unadorned, certain – however at the cost, it's more than worthy. 

What's more, extensively in accordance with what we found on the European test drive, the Suzuki handles well: neatly, with outstanding accuracy and even a little get-up-and-go. The power controlling's very immediate and feels generous, and spring rates are marginally higher than the hybrid standard, for a pleasantly cut B-street ride. 

An intermittent piece of pounding brutality in the ride at low speed comes as the exchange off, and between that, some breeze clamor and the slight abruptness of the diesel motor, you positively wouldn't call the S-Cross especially refined. However, it's pleasantly damped, and handles superior to anything it needs to for the cash. 

Execution from the 1.6-liter Fiat-sourced diesel motor is great, and economy in like manner. We saw superior to 50mpg from the outing PC, on a crosscountry course and with the four-wheel drive framework drew in for a decent lump of it. 

Experience proposes that is significantly superior to an identical 3008 or Vauxhall Mokka will serve up – and the official CO2 claims appear to affirm to such an extent. 

Would it be advisable for me to get one? 

It's justified regardless of a test drive. The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is an affable gadget that makes up with some appeal, balance, effectiveness and esteem what it offers up to some on inside improvement and traveler space. 

It's not the most cultivated hybrid on the piece, nor is it the most in vogue or alluring – however over the range in general, it is great esteem. 

What's more, in the event that you'd preferably give up on those territories than on dealing with, execution, hardware or 4x4 ease of use, it could be recently the useful all-season family auto for your carport. 

Suzuki SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS Allgrip SZ5 

Cost £23,549; 0-62mph 13.0sec; Top speed 108mph; Economy 64.2mpg; CO2 114g/km; Kerbweight 1305kg; Engine 4cyls, 1598cc, turbodiesel; Power 118bhp at 3750rpm; Torque 236lb ft at 1750rpm; Gearbox 6-spd manual