Description
The Suzuki S-Cross 1.4 Boosterjet MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is a compact crossover SUV (since 2022) known for its practical, no-nonsense approach to family transport, combining decent performance with respectable fuel economy. It uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to boost efficiency, providing electric assistance to the petrol engine.
Key Features and Performance
Engine: 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine (K14D).
Power: 129hp (127bhp) and a punchy 235Nm of torque.
Mild-Hybrid System: 48-volt lithium-ion battery and Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).
0-62mph: 9.5 seconds (manual).
Efficiency: Returns over 50mpg, often averaging 45–53mpg in real-world driving.
Drivetrain: Available with 2WD or Suzuki's "AllGrip" 4WD system.
Driving and Handling
Performance: The engine acts more like a diesel, offering high torque at low revs, making it very responsive around town and comfortable on the motorway.
Ride Quality: The suspension is soft, absorbing potholes and speed bumps, but can feel a bit unsettled over high-speed sharp impacts.
Handling: Predictable and safe, but not as agile or fun to drive as competitors like the Ford Puma.
Noise: Can be coarse under heavy acceleration, with some wind and road noise at motorway speeds.
Interior and Practicality
Interior: Known as honest and functional, with an old-school feel using hard plastics rather than luxurious materials.
Dashboard: Simple, easy-to-use physical switches and knobs, with a 7-inch touchscreen on Motion trim or 9-inch on Ultra.
Space: Surprisingly spacious for its size, with good rear legroom for a compact crossover and a 430-litre boot.
Equipment: Well-equipped from base "Motion" trim, including LED headlights, heated seats, parking sensors, and a rear-view camera.