2022 Suzuki S-Cross debuts – The Honda HR-V competitor we need

In a rather quiet debut, the all-new third-generation 2022 Suzuki S-Cross has broke cover for the European market with a snazzy new design and upgraded equipment.

The 2022 S-Cross is the third-generation of the Suzuki SX-4 which enjoyed decent sales in Malaysia. The second-generation S-Cross lived a short life before the eventual exodus of Suzuki Malaysia in 2016.

Measuring in at 4,300 mm in length, 1,785 mm in width and 1,585 mm with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm, the 2022 S-Cross will compete with the likes of the Honda HR-V when it eventually goes on sale, depending on the market.

Powering the new S-Cross is Suzuki’s K14D Boosterjet 1.4-litre turbocharged engine which is aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that uses a 14 PS / 50 Nm Motor Generator Unit (MGU).

The MGU supports both hybrid driving and EV driving (inactive engine) for lower fuel consumption.

The power unit delivers a maximum output of 129 PS and 235 Nm of torque, comparable in terms of power to Honda’s 1.5-litre i-MMD e:HEV (109 PS / 253 Nm) that features in Honda City RS (and upcoming City RS Hatchback).

Also read: 2021 Suzuki Swift Sport (ZC33S) in Malaysia – Who is it for exactly?

Power is sent to all four-wheels via Suzuki’s AllGrip 4x4 via either a 6-speed auto or manual transmission for the European market.

Whilst the nderpinnings and powertrain of the new S-Cross are largely carried over from the previous generation, the styling and proportions are far closer to a traditional SUV now.

A taller front hood and bolder front fascia give the S-Cross an more purposeful looks, whilst squared wheel arch mouldings and prominent shoulder line highlights strong proportions from the flanks.

The interior, bearing some similarity to the Suzuki Swift, features a central 9-inch infotainment touchscreen which is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and comes with a 360-degree view camera.

In addition to driving support functions such as autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, lane departure prevention, the S-Cross will offer adaptive cruise control with stop & go and rear cross traffic alert.

Manufactured at Suzuki’s Hungarian subsidiary Magyar Suzuki Corporation, sales of the all-new S-Cross will start in Europe from the end of 2021, followed by export to Latin America, Oceania, and Asia.

Also read: RM 169k 2021 Suzuki Jimny is expensive? First 2 shipments sold out, more coming