2017 Suzuki S-Cross Turbo heralds big changes for small SUV

Two trim grades powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder from the Suzuki Vitara Turbo replace the entire previous line-up that featured an unassisted 1.6-litre four.

The move ends the offering of manual transmissions and all-wheel drive, and lifts the S-Cross’s starting price significantly – from $22,990 to $27,990.

The base Turbo, however, is $2000 cheaper than the former GLX it essentially matches for equipment, and also $1000 less than the entry Vitara Turbo. Standard gear includes satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate, keyless entry/start, 17-inch alloy wheels and reversing camera.

The $29,990 Prestige version of the Suzuki S-Cross Turbo adds leather-accented upholstery, rear sensors, auto-dimming rear view mirror, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, and headlights with LED projector lamps and auto function.

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Suzuki Australia is currently offering driveaway pricing that adds just $1000 to the RRPs.

The turbo engine’s outputs of 103kW and 220Nm surpass the 86kW and 156Nm of the original S-Cross, which should compensate amply for an extra 45kg in overall vehicle weight.

A conventional six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle-shift levers is standard, replacing the CVT auto offered previously.

Official fuel consumption of 5.9 litres per 100km is marginally thirstier than the 5.8L/100km of the 1.6L front-wheel-drive S-Cross models.

The model’s mid-life update also brings revised styling, most notable with the more aggressive front end epitomised by a chunky chrome grille, re-profiled headlights and bonnet creases.

The S-Cross has been struggling in the market compared with Suzuki’s alternative small SUV, the Vitara. Vitara sales have almost reached 5000 at the end of October, where S-Cross sales are down 60 per cent to 483 units at the same stage.

Suzuki Australia will bolster its small-SUV range in 2017 with a new-generation Ignis.