First introduced in 2013, the Suzuki S-Cross established itself as a practical and affordable crossover SUV, combining versatility with the brand’s reputation for reliability and low running costs. The latest generation, introduced to the market in 2022, marks a significant update with sharper styling, enhanced technology, and the addition of Suzuki’s latest hybrid powertrains. Market-wise, the S-Cross is positioned as a value-driven, reliable, and practical choice within the busy family SUV segment, competing with cars like the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, and the Hyundai Tucson.
The Suzuki S-Cross is a solid, no-nonsense family SUV that prioritises practicality, low running costs, and reliability over flashy gimmicks. It’s well-equipped, though, and the pricing is very keen compared with rivals, offering genuine value – especially when you consider its efficient hybrid engines and optional ALLGRIP system. It may lack the prestige of pricier competitors, but the Suzuki is a solid buy.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioPrices for a brand-new Suzuki S-Cross start from around £24,999 for the entry-level Motion hybrid, with top-spec Ultra full hybrid ALLGRIP models reaching up to £27,999, so all are very keenly priced.
All variants come well-equipped as standard, meaning there’s little need to delve into pricey options lists.
On the used market, current-shape S-Cross models can be found from approximately £14,000 on AACars.com and values hold up well, thanks to Suzuki’s reputation for reliability.
The S-Cross offers a simple but effective engine line-up.
The mainstay of the line-up is Suzuki’s 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine, paired with 48V mild-hybrid technology. This set-up produces 129bhp and 235Nm of torque, allowing 0-62 mph in around 9.5 seconds when equipped with front-wheel drive, or 10.2 seconds with the optional ALLGRIP all-wheel-drive system. It’s mated to a six-speed manual or optional automatic transmission. It’s hardly quick, but it’s capable enough to not feel out of its depth in busy traffic.
For greater efficiency, the 1.5-litre full-hybrid model matches a naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 115bhp. This enables a 0–62 mph time of about 12.7 seconds (front-wheel drive) and 13.5 seconds (ALLGRIP). The full hybrid is available exclusively with a six-speed automated manual transmission and offers substantial fuel economy gains in urban and stop-start driving, but it’s certainly set up for efficiency over performance.
All models are front-wheel drive as standard, but Suzuki’s ALLGRIP Select all-wheel-drive system is available on higher trims, providing extra reassurance in poor weather and on loose surfaces.
The S-Cross offers a comfortable and composed driving experience, with light, accurate steering and a well-judged suspension that soaks up bumps and rough roads –indeed, it might surprise you as it feels a lot more car-like than many of its compact SUV rivals.
The mild hybrid engine delivers reasonably peppy acceleration for town and motorway use, while the full hybrid prioritises smoothness and fuel saving.
Visibility is excellent thanks to a high driving position and a large glass area, while manoeuvrability is aided by standard front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.
Suzuki has tuned the S-Cross’s suspension for comfort, absorbing potholes and road imperfections with ease. While it doesn’t offer the sharpest handling in the class, it feels stable and predictable, with minimal body roll through corners and surprisingly sharp steering. A lack of outright performance means it’s not as sporty as it could be, but the chassis has clear potential.
The optional ALLGRIP all-wheel-drive system enhances grip and stability on slippery surfaces, and driving modes allow drivers to tailor the system for snow, sport, and off-road conditions, meaning the S-Cross is reassuring, easy to drive, and comfortable over long distances.
Step inside the S-Cross and you’ll find a spacious, well-laid out cabin. The dashboard features a seven-inch (or nine-inch on top trims) touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, DAB radio, and native navigation. It does the job, but it lacks some of the functionality and speed of infotainment systems in rival models.
The materials are hard-wearing and practical, if not as plush as some more expensive rivals with an abundance of hard plastics, but the switches and controls feel solid and well-placed.
There’s ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, and the elevated seating position offers a commanding view of the road. The rear seats easily accommodate adults, and Isofix mounts are fitted on the outer rear seats for child safety.
The S-Cross has 430 litres of luggage space with the rear seats in place, which expands to 1,230 litres when the 60:40 split rear bench is folded flat. The low boot lip and wide opening make loading bulky items straightforward, while additional underfloor compartments provide storage for smaller items.
In-cabin storage includes large door pockets, a generous glovebox, cupholders, and a useful central armrest compartment.
All S-Cross models are pretty well-equipped. Standard kit includes dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, LED headlights, keyless entry and start, a rear parking camera, and a suite of active safety features. Upper trims add a panoramic sunroof, larger touchscreen with integrated navigation, leather upholstery, and an upgraded audio system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on all, with wireless charging on upper trim levels.
The S-Cross is available in Motion and Ultra trim levels. The entry-level Motion comes with 17-inch alloys, LED headlights, the 7-inch infotainment system, and a full suite of safety aids.
Ultra trim adds a panoramic sunroof, larger 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, leather seats, and the option of ALLGRIP all-wheel drive.
Colour choices include classic shades such as Silky Silver, Cosmic Black, and Cool White, as well as more vibrant options like Sphere Blue and Energetic Red, which are popular among younger buyers.
The Suzuki S-Cross was awarded a five-star safety rating by Euro NCAP, thanks to its robust structure and comprehensive suite of safety features. In the Euro NCAP assessment, the S-Cross achieved the following scores across key categories: 88% for Adult Occupant Protection, 80% for Child Occupant Protection, 67% for Vulnerable Road Users (pedestrians and cyclists), and 83% for Safety Assist systems.
Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition.
Suzuki enjoys an excellent reputation for reliability, supported by high owner satisfaction survey rankings and low running costs.
The 1.4 Boosterjet mild hybrid achieves official WLTP fuel economy figures of 47-54 mpg, depending on specification, wheel-size and drivetrain. The full-hybrid models are even more efficient, returning up to 58 mpg combined. CO2 emissions range from 118 g/km (full hybrid) to 133 g/km (mild hybrid ALLGRIP).
Road tax is competitive, with all current S-Cross models costing £195 per year to tax (2025/26). Insurance groups are quite low at 19-27, reflecting the S-Cross’s strong safety credentials and modest performance.
Service intervals are every 12 months or 12,500 miles, and Suzuki provides a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty, with hybrid batteries covered for five years or 60,000 miles.
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