Suzuki S-Cross officially introduced in Malaysia, priced at RM130k [+Video]



The Suzuki S-Cross, after making a special appearance at a local motoring show held at the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) recently, was officially launched by Suzuki Malaysia Automobile (SMA) Sdn Bhd earlier this morning. According to SMA, the SX4 will be phased out to make way for the S-Cross.

Suzuki S-Cross (54)

QUICK FACTS

Name Suzuki S-Cross
Engine M16A; 1,586cc, 1.6-litre 4-cylinder with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Max Power 117 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Max Torque 156 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Price  RM129,888 (OTR without insurance)

 

Essentially an upsized Suzuki SX4, the S-Cross has literally inched its way into the C-Segment crossover category, brawling against several popular models such as the Mazda CX-5, Mitsubishi ASX and Subaru XV, just to name a few. It won’t be an easy fight, seeing the S-Cross comes packed with a 1.6-litre engine (its competitors have at least 2.0-litre engines) that was taken from the Swift Sport.

EXTERIOR

Features found on the outside of the car are rather interesting. It dons HID headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, roof railings, side mirrors with built in signal indicator, front and rear parking sensors, 17-inch wheels shod with 205/50 R17 series tyres and keyless entry.

Suzuki S-Cross (53)

 

So if it’s an upsized SX4, what makes it a C-Segment, you ask? Well, the S-Cross measures a good 160 mm longer, 10 mm taller and is 10 mm wider, allowing for a one-up, segment wise. It’s overall length is now 4,300 mm long, whereas overall width is 1,765 mm and height at 1,575 mm. The S-Cross rides on MacPherson struts at the front and torsion beam setup at the rear.

INTERIOR

A peek inside reminds us of the Swift, but it’s a clear departure from the hatch in terms of quality and features. In the centre console rests a 7-inch touchscreen head unit with GPS navigation system and reverse camera to boot. Other creature comforts include push-start ignition, cruise control with speed limiter and paddle shifters.

Suzuki S-Cross (29)

 

There’s another key feature which Suzuki claims is a world’s first – the double-sliding panoramic sunroof. So if you’re the sun-loving kind, this could very well be the car to get. In terms of luggage space, the S-Cross is capable of storing as much as 440 litres worth of stuff. The seats can be folded, and if done, makes way for nearly 900 litres of storage space.

PERFORMANCE

Underneath the hood of this crossover lies the familiar M16A 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine (shared with the Suzuki Swift Sport), but is tuned to be more civilised and fuel efficient. It makes 117 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 156 Nm at 4,400 rpm that is mated to a CVT gearbox with seven virtual ratios, driving the front wheels. AWD isn’t optional, we’re afraid, so that’s the only drive type you’ll get.

Suzuki S-Cross (14)

Its performance figures aren’t one that you should pay attention to, but we’ll lay it out regardless. The S-Cross completes the century sprint (that’s the 0 to 100 km/h sprint for those who don’t know) in 11 seconds flat, but Suzuki claims that its 80 to 120 km/h time of 9.2 seconds is by far the best in the hotly contested segment. Again, these numbers shouldn’t be a factor to repeal your reasons of purchase.

What the S-Cross promises though, are good fuel economy figures – consuming just 5.81 litres for every 100 kilometers travelled (combined cycle). This feat is achieved thanks to its incredible lightweight, as its kerb weight tips no more than 1,185kg.

IMG_4700

SAFETY

The safety kit is where the S-Cross continues to shine. Standard kit list comprise of seven airbags – two front and side airbags, two curtain airbags and driver-knee airbag, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist and Hill-hold Control. All of these features, according to Suzuki, are bolstered in their Total Effectiveness Control Technology (TECT) which provides optimal safety levels for all occupants.

Suzuki S-Cross (11)

WHAT ELSE?

The S-Cross comes with four different colours – Crystal Lime Metallic, Amethyst Gray Pearl Metallic, Cool White Pearl and Boost Blue Pearl Metallic. It is fully imported from Hungary and is priced at RM129,888 (OTR without insurance). As of now, there are no plans to locally assemble the car, but that is subject to change should the demand be positive.

Suzuki S-Cross (45)

SMA is offering five years or 150,000km warranty programme (whichever comes first) as well as the Suzuki Assist package which offers 24-hour roadside assistance, lifestyle and concierge arrangements, home assist service and claims approval. The S-Cross will be available for public viewing at the e@Curve mall as part of their Nationwide Roadshow.

[divider]

IMAGE GALLERY