Suzuki Ireland is launching the new SX4 S-Cross in mid October at a starting price of €19,995, writes Brian Byrne.
The new car is aimed at the growing compact crossover segment with models like Nissan’s Qashqai and Mitsubishi’s ASX, and will be available in 2WD and AWD versions with 120hp 1.6 petrol and diesel engines. The petrol unit hasa 5-speed gearbox, the diesels a 6-speed.
The CO2 bands are A3-B1, and the AWD versions feature an all-new selectable 4-mode system called AllGrip. It includes Snow and Sport modes, the latter selectable when driving on twisty roads for which it changes throttle response and makes more use of the AWD capability. In normal driving, the system keeps the car in 2WD unless wheelspin is detected. A 'Lock' feature provides high torque to all four wheels to get it through snow, mud or sand.
There are three grades, GL, GL+ and GLX. Standard from the basic grade are seven airbags, ESP and tyre pressure monitoring, Bluetooth connectivity and cruise control.
Options available going through the grades include alloy wheels, dual zone climate control, Stop Start, and hill hold control.The GLX gets as standard front and rear parking sensors and automatic HID projector headlamps, leather seats, a panoramic sunroof and LED daylight running lamps.
The boot space has 20 litres more than the segment leader Nissan Qashqai with the back seats up, and also more than in the Grand Vitara from Suzuki.
Both petrol and diesel engines are more economical than the equivalents in any of their competitors.
The price range up to €30,345 will be held up to May 2014.
