Suzuki just couldn’t keep it to themselves, it seems, as they’ve released almost every details worth knowing about the updated S-Cross just ahead of its expected debut at the Paris Motor Show.
Far from being the most exciting car on the show floor, perhaps the new S-Cross is better served with a premature premiere this way. We had previously shown the S-Cross in near-identical form as it made a pre-launch appearance in Italy back in July, so there’s really nothing left to surprise us about the small Japanese crossover.
For that matter, why Suzuki is choosing to label its appearance at the Paris Motor Show as a ‘debut’ at all? The one shown in the pictures is a right-hand drive model as opposed to the unit shown prior, and that is a notable if banal difference.
Over the model generation it replaces, the new S-Cross’ design has undergone a noticeable change with the more upright, squared motif, with a higher of 15mm. The chromed grille and sharper headlamps too project a more assertive presence on the road. These are paired by the new LED tail lamps and a mildly reshaped rear bumper.
The cabin doesn’t seem to have been altered all that much but gains a new touchscreen infotainment unit just under the central air conditioning vents and Suzuki says that more soft touch material was used throughout. Oh yes, and the a new fabric upholstery pattern has found its way into the list of changes.
Dual zone air, cruise control, radar brake support, and heated leather seats should be uniformly standard for range-topping units. And for certain markets, a panoramic sunroof is also an option.
The new S-Cross range starts with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol unit that generates 81kW and replaces the entry-level naturally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol of the previous generation, producing 10 percent more torque at 169Nm.
A more powerful petrol is also available in the form of a 1.4-litre four-cylinder Boosterjet (turbo) lifted from the Vitara that outputs 103kW and 220Nm - a healthy portion more on both fronts than the outgoing higher-tuned 1.6-litre as well. The only carry-over engine is the diesel, which retains its 1.6-litre displacement and 88kW/320Nm figures.
These engines send power, depending on variant, to either the front wheels or all four via Suzuki’s AllGrip system via a six-speed manual or six-speed dual clutch automatic.
For more on Suzuki vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
