The new 2023 Suzuki S-Cross focuses on quality and offers value that luxury lacks.
The 2023 Suzuki S-Cross is back, and ready to compete in the small SUV segment, with an enhanced look, new technology, and more safety features, and its exterior confirms that the latest 2023 Suzuki S-Cross is definitely on the mend. Note that the latest model of the 2023 Suzuki S-Cross is not much different from the old Suzuki SX4 S-Cross. But she’s more conservative now.
The 2023 Suzuki S-Cross is a family SUV for those looking for value for money and long-term reliability. With Suzuki’s Allgrip 4×4 system, I’m even more capable of traversing a muddy field. And a nice upgrade to the cabin, along with a hybrid powertrain, a 1.4-liter petrol engine with mild-hybrid electric assistance, or a new 1.5-liter “full hybrid” Vitara-like engine.
It’s amazing how good the Suzuki S-Cross handles are. In typical Japanese style. I don’t get too pre-emptive with ratings, but they prioritize things like safety, value for money, and even off-road capability over sportiness, along with Suzuki engineering capabilities for long-lived mechanics.
2023 Suzuki S Cross Models
Only two trim levels are available: Motion and Ultra. Standard equipment on the Suzuki S-Cross Motion includes a media system with a 7-inch screen, dual phone mirroring support, heated front seats and front/rear parking sensors. Above that is the range-topping Suzuki S-Cross Ultra, which adds a 360-degree camera, leather seats, navigation, and a panoramic sunroof.
Suzuki S Cross 2023 competitors
The Suzuki S-Cross competes with family SUVs such as the Skoda Karoq, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and Opel Grand Land. And if you don’t need a lot of space, you might also want to consider small SUVs like the Ford Puma, Seat Arona, and Toyota Yaris Cross.
The exterior design of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
There are some obvious new aesthetic improvements, including a sleeker hood, redesigned LED headlights to depict a “higher center of gravity” – along with squared-off wheel arches and silver bumper trim to give it a bolder look. Front and rear LED lights, both vivid and cool overall, give a dynamic impression. While the front position lights also function as daytime running lights.
According to Suzuki, the S-Cross embodies the “Emotion x Quality x Aerodynamics” design idea , which features “distinctive dynamic lines that start at the front bumper, sweep across the doors, and continue to the rear of the body.” While the impressive front grille in piano black provides a dynamic presence that distinguishes it, and the front emblem centered on a chrome-plated strip.
The design showcases the sculpted wings with a sharp feature line that extends from the headlights to the rear end, while the front fascia features subtle surface treatment, in the area below the headlights, including the air intake and LED light bar. The front and rear square arches add character to the exterior design. Bold silver trim on the front face and rear bumper provides a powerful statement, adding to the SUV’s confident appearance.
Interior cab design of the 2023 Suzuki S-Cross
“The interior of the Suzuki S-Cross looks completely different from the luxurious cabin of the new Nissan Qashqai. The interior is heavy-duty rather than luxurious, but you do at least get some headroom that some competitors lack, but space in the back isn’t great for adults because of the panoramic roof. Just step into the cabin and you’ll see why the car is cheaper than a number of midsize SUVs despite having more equipment.
2023 Suzuki S Cross dashboard
The dashboard layout is almost identical to that of the old SX4 S-Cross, which means a somewhat faded and dated design, with a fair amount of hard plastic and very little design flair. A new infotainment system is installed within the driver’s field of view.
All the basics are well arranged too – the design is straightforward, there are enough physical buttons for features, it’s not fancy or high-end, but Suzuki’s interiors tend to stand the test of time, and we have no doubt they will be different. What it lacks in extravagance it makes up for in solidity.
The view of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
There is a good level of adjustment in the seats and steering wheel. The large windshield and slim pillars also mean that forward visibility is good, while the view from the rear benefits from the similarly slim pillars and adequately sized rear window.
Driving mode in the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
You also get a decent high seating position up front, something some small to midsize SUVs just don’t offer. The seats are relatively comfortable but not very supportive, and there is no adjustable lumbar support.
Material quality and interior finish of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
Here, the Suzuki S-Cross proves both its age and its price. Basically, everything is sturdy, there are no flimsy things, and of course your kids won’t be able to take it apart in a matter of hours. The Superior cabin also offers leather-like seats and partial leather seats.
Compared to competitors from the small SUV segment, the S-Cross looks pretty nice, has more hard plastic and lower-resolution screens. And the doors feel very light and small when closed, too. It rents less than the Dacia Duster.
The spaciousness and spaciousness of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
Outdoor space reflects a more compact offering in the classroom, and larger families with more things to carry are better off looking elsewhere. And we have no complaints about headroom, as the panoramic roof in the superlative edges doesn’t impede headroom.
The equipped panoramic roof affects the rear headroom for tall people, because the seats are installed higher than those in the front. Legroom isn’t too bad, and no shoulder room.
The trunk of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
The trunk capacity of the Suzuki S-Cross is 430 liters. It’s also square in shape, with a wide rear hatch and an adjustable box floor to create a flat loading area with the seats folded down. Hooks, a removable luggage cover and cubbies on either side make it practical, but the seats only fold in a simple 60/40 split and don’t slide back and forth.
2023 Suzuki S Cross infotainment system
Base Suzuki S-Cross models come with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with Bluetooth, DAB radio, and support for two phone systems. The Ultra model has a nine-inch screen and has a built-in satellite navigation system. The two screens have a similar interface to a large extent. They are bright and clear enough, but they are a bit slow and slow to load menus at times.
The sat-nav works well, and the Ultra trim also offers a 360-degree camera system. The camera system gives you a tour of the car’s immediate exterior when starting off. There are two USB connectors, but no USB-C to charge the latest phones. And the standard stereo isn’t great, but it’s a reasonable performer.
2023 suzuki s cross engine
There isn’t a huge amount of choice in the Suzuki S-Cross engine range. If you want all-wheel drive, you’ll need a top-spec Ultra model, and you can get it with two engines: a 1.4-liter Boosterjet petrol (with a small amount of mild-hybrid electric assistance), or a ‘full hybrid’ with the 1.5-liter engine we recently saw in the Suzuki Vitara. .
The 1.4-liter engine was initially available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox, but its entry into a hybrid in late 2022 only keeps the light-clutch manual transmission’s quality with just the right throw, and it’s easy enough to use.
2023 Suzuki S Cross powertrain performance
With 130 horsepower and 235 Nm of torque, the base engine of the Suzuki S-Cross is more than passionate enough, especially since the car is relatively light in weight. And it feels faster than its 9.5-second 0-62mph acceleration time would suggest.
We think the Suzuki S-Cross probably makes more sense in the base model. And the full hybrid version probably isn’t worth the price premium, the Suzuki S-Cross Motion covers all the essentials in terms of standard equipment. It is also offered with an automatic transmission. Note that it is only an automatic manual transmission. He may be a bit erratic in his responses.
The hybrid setup works well, though it doesn’t feel as well-polished as competing hybrid versions, and it’s not quick either, sprinting from zero to 62mph in 12.7 seconds in front-wheel-drive trim, or 13.5 seconds in all-wheel-drive trim.
Driving impressions of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
There is magic in the way the S Cross drives. The Suzuki S-Cross is much lighter than the typical family SUV, which means it has a fairly good ride. You can also get it with all-wheel drive, which makes it really capable of getting through muddy or wintry conditions.
The driving experience is a mixed bag, and feels a little dated in places. The lightweight 1.4-litre petrol engine is surprisingly nimble and nimble, as well as efficient, and doesn’t make a noise when it starts. Likewise, there is a noticeable increase in wind and road noise compared to (more expensive) competitors such as the Nissan Qashqai.
The only thing that plays in favor of the Suzuki is its light weight: only 1290 kg. Less weight means more powerful performance, lower fuel consumption and more agile handling. The Suzuki S-Cross Motion is a front-wheel-drive SUV, while the top-spec Ultra comes with selectable Allgrip all-wheel drive.
2023 Suzuki S Cross Dynamics Rear Wheel Drive
Suzuki is known for making cars that keep going when the going gets tough. If you live in the backcountry, you may be reassured to know that we gave it a shot, negotiated some sticky mud on the S-Cross Ultra, with the same regular road tires, and kept going.
Suzuki’s 4WD expertise keeps the wheels moving (the Suzuki Jimny is a favorite with off-roaders and farmers alike, and we think the S-Cross’ compact size and impressive light weight help with that. It’s 2-300kg lighter than an SUV Large family size.
Transmission performance of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
The automatic gearbox in the full hybrid version isn’t that impressive. It’s an automatic manual transmission, rather than a traditional torque converter automatic transmission or CVT, and it malfunctions fairly easily. While selecting Sport mode sharpens responses, Eco mode, which contributes to improving fuel economy, dampens acceleration. Nor does it earn a place in our best hybrids.
The suspension and steering of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
The S Cross exudes agility on the road. The light steering isn’t quite as confident out of town, but it remains compliant in the corners. And Suzuki didn’t need to install a stiff suspension either, so while it’s not quite as soft as the Volkswagen T-Roc,
It has a relatively compliant ride that smooths out all but the worst bumps and potholes. And the overly-assisted steering is alarmingly light. While the suspension bumps over really cracky road surfaces, it doesn’t lean too much in the turns.
Visibility of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
As a city car it’s really good, with that excellent visibility and a modest size that makes it easy to pass through tight gaps and park. A rearview camera is standard on base Motion models, while the Ultra comes with a 360-degree camera which is very useful in tight parking spaces.
Noise and vibration in the 2023 S-Cross
Keep the revs below the midrange and the engine won’t be intrusive, while there isn’t much vibration to worry about. But crank it up to speed on a freeway or intersection and you’ll get a mighty buzz from under the hood. This is especially true on hybrid models with a robotic manual gearbox, which is easy to confuse.
I would have liked more sound insulation in the cabin because long highway trips are not very relaxing. Road noise is noticeable on all surfaces, and the rustle of wind is annoying. Overcoming both means turning on the radio and risking a headache.
2023 Suzuki S Cross running costs
The most efficient Suzuki S-Cross is the full hybrid drive model, which can officially get 54.3 mpg in WLTP testing. The mild hybrid version gets 53.2 mpg with the manual gearbox, dropping to 49.5 mpg with the automatic transmission.
Hybrid technology combined with low weight means the Suzuki S-Cross is very efficient in real life. Just avoid the all-wheel-drive models if you’re interested in high efficiency. Suzuki’s Allgrip all-wheel-drive system lowers economy in the ultra-hybrid to 48.7 mpg, and lowers it in the mild-hybrid to 47.8 mpg.
Crash test of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
The latest Suzuki S-Cross has not yet been tested by Euro NCAP, the crash safety authority. But the chassis underneath is taken from the old SX4 S-Cross and it scored the highest five-star rating when it was tested. Our expectations may or may not match reality for the 2023 edition because testing is now more rigorous.
Safety and security equipment in the 2023 Suzuki S-Class
Generous standard active safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Pricier competitors don’t always offer that full list as standard equipment.
2023 Suzuki S Cross Reliability
Suzuki finished mid-table in the latest HonestJohn.co.uk satisfaction index. And it beat out some of the major brands that supposedly have a stronger reputation for quality.
Suzuki is known for its engineering integrity, and despite its lack of great design, it is known for manufacturing long-lived mechanical parts that are built to last. The 1.4 liter Boosterjet engine has delivered several years of proven service now, while we have yet to hear of any issues with the new 1.5 hybrid engine.
Suzuki S Cross 2023 warranty
Suzuki has an excellent reliability record and performs regularly in ownership surveys such as HonestJohn.co.uk’s Satisfaction Index. Suzuki offers a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty with roadside assistance and price-fixed service.
And you must ask about the warranty period because some dealers offer it with a warranty of three years or 60,000 miles, and if this is the case with the S-Roc and you want an SUV with a long warranty, you better look for the Kia Sportage.
Value for money 2023 Suzuki S Cross
The Suzuki S-Cross starts at £24,999, which isn’t a high price. And you get a lot for your money, including 17-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, and parking sensors on the lower trim.
Top-spec Suzuki S-Cross Ultra models start at under £30,000 with mild hybrid power, while topping the range with £31,500 super-hybrid.
Safety and security features are standard on the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
Standard security features include:
- 6 ISOFIX airbags x 2, top sling x 3
- AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- 2023 Suzuki S-Cross
Features of the 2023 Suzuki S Cross
- It is likely to be a reliable used car with a long life
- Light weight benefits performance, handling and efficiency
- Well equipped and value for money
Disadvantages of the Suzuki S Cross 2023
- Competitors offer more tangible luxury
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