ON THE ROAD- IAN LYNAS DRIVES THE NEW SUZUKI S-CROSS

Suzuki recently introduced an all new S Cross. Powered by a 1.4 litre K14D turbocharged petrol engine with the company’s renowned Boosterjet technology,  it offers a wide spread of available torque of 235Nm available from 2,000rpm. Similar in basic principle to the 12V Hybrid system that Suzuki pioneered in 2016 which is fitted to all Ignis and Swift 1.2 litre models, the 48V Hybrid power train for the new S-Cross is very lightweight in design and its components add less than 15kg to the overall weight of the vehicle. This system consists of a lithium-ion battery, Integrated Starter Generator and 48V-12V (DC/DC) converter to power components requiring lower voltage including lights, audio and air conditioning. The ISG acts as both a generator and starter motor, is belt driven and assists the petrol engine during vehicle take off for a higher level of torque with 235Nm available from 2,000rpm and up to 3,000rpm.

The compact and high-performance lithium-ion battery stores electrical energy recovered from deceleration and braking and incorporates an idle stop function operated via the Integrated Starter Generator. This battery, as well as the DC/DC convertor unit, are located under the front seats to assist overall weight distribution. The 48V system also has torque-fill control and torque boost features that enhance driving feel by adding torque from the electric motor to engine torque during acceleration.

My week behind the wheel was with the top level trim with the optional automatic transmission and I must point out that ALLGRIP select four wheel drive is standard equipment on Ultra grade (N.I. market), which I had on test. I found that the ALLGRIP system did add to the handling qualities of the S Cross. This system incorporates four driver-selectable modes for safer driving on diverse surfaces and further development has been by enhanced by the addition of a feed forward function that allocates torque to the rear wheels before any slippage can occur. The system’s four driver-selectable modes are Auto which prioritises fuel economy in typical driving conditions and uses two-wheel drive by default. It switches to four wheel drive if it detects wheel spin. The sport mode is optimal for twisty roads and makes maximal use of four-wheel drive in accordance with accelerator inputs. At low and mid-range engine speeds, the system alters the accelerator/torque characteristics to optimise engine response and cornering performance. The snow mode is optimal for snowy, unpaved, and other slippery surfaces and uses four-wheel drive by default. It optimises four-wheel drive control in accordance with steering and accelerator inputs to promote traction and stability on low friction surfaces. The Lock mode is for extricating the car from snow, mud, or sand. A limited slip differential is fitted which helps brake any slipping wheel and transfer torque to the gripping wheels. The newcomer features a bold and more muscular design that enhances its presence with larger and more angular wheel arches and smooth flowing lines.

The front end design incorporates a raised bonnet line, piano black front grille and new design three LED position headlamps. The rear has larger combination lamps that integrate horizontally with the rear centre garnish to emphasise a sense of width, in addition to roof rails and integrated rear spoiler. Moving to the interior, spacious and versatile with and an even higher standard and safety specification than the previous S-Cross. Suzuki do offer a lot with their vehicles and this new model features Dual Sensor Brake Support automated braking, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Cruise Control which is standard on all versions. Fitted to both new S-Cross trim levels, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto smartphone link, keyless entry and start, dual-zone auto air conditioning, heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors. The higher level trim adds 360 view camera, leather upholstery, on-board navigation and large sliding panoramic sunroof. Models available in the ROI are Option 1 and 2.

I have always been impressed with the value for money that Suzuki offers and the new S-Cross is no exception.

Ian Lynas