2024 Suzuki S-Cross Plus - Review Roundup

The 2024 Suzuki S-Cross aims to carve out its place in the competitive compact SUV market by offering a balance of practicality, efficiency, and affordability. With updates to its design, technology, and performance, the S-Cross seeks to appeal to a wide range of buyers looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle. This review compiles insights from CarExpert, Drive, CarsGuide, and Carsales to provide a comprehensive and truthful evaluation of the S-Cross.

Pricing

Specifications

Features at a glance

Design and Exterior

The 2024 Suzuki S-Cross has undergone subtle but effective design updates, giving it a more modern and refined appearance. CarExpert describes the exterior as having a robust stance, thanks to its higher ride height and new front grille design. The LED headlights and taillights, along with the stylish alloy wheels, add to the vehicle’s contemporary look, while the overall design remains functional and geared toward everyday use.

Drive notes that while the S-Cross may not be the most visually striking vehicle in its class, it offers a clean and conservative design that appeals to buyers who prefer practicality over flashiness. The vehicle’s compact dimensions make it well-suited for urban driving, while still providing enough ground clearance for light off-road adventures.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the S-Cross focuses on practicality and user-friendly features. CarExpert highlights the spacious interior, which offers ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The cabin materials are durable, though some hard plastics are noticeable, which is typical in this price range.

CarsGuide points out that the dashboard layout is straightforward, with an emphasis on functionality. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, featuring a 9-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system’s graphics and responsiveness are noted as being somewhat outdated compared to rivals.

Carsales appreciates the practicality of the interior, particularly the rear seats, which can be reclined for added comfort. The cargo area offers a decent amount of space, with a flat load floor that makes it easy to transport larger items. However, the overall cabin ambiance is described as basic, lacking the premium feel found in some competitors.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2024 S-Cross comes equipped with a range of modern technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. CarExpert mentions the inclusion of a digital instrument cluster, which provides clear and accessible information to the driver. The central touchscreen is the hub for the infotainment system, offering smartphone connectivity, navigation, and various vehicle settings.

Drive notes that while the infotainment system is functional, it lacks the polish and sophistication of more expensive rivals. The sound system is adequate for daily use, but audiophiles may find it underwhelming. The vehicle also includes several USB ports, ensuring that passengers can keep their devices charged on the go.

CarsGuide highlights the S-Cross’s suite of driver assistance features, which include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features contribute to the vehicle’s overall safety rating, making it a solid choice for families.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2024 Suzuki S-Cross is powered by a 1.4-liter Boosterjet turbocharged engine, delivering 103kW of power and 220Nm of torque. CarExpert praises the engine for its peppy performance, especially in urban settings where the S-Cross feels nimble and responsive. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and pairs well with the engine, providing a comfortable driving experience.

Drive notes that while the S-Cross performs well in the city, it may feel slightly underpowered on highways, especially when fully loaded. The fuel efficiency, however, is a strong point, with the vehicle achieving an average of around 6.2L/100km, making it one of the more economical options in its class.

Carsales emphasizes the vehicle’s handling characteristics, describing the ride as comfortable and composed. The suspension is tuned to absorb most road imperfections, offering a smooth ride even on rougher surfaces. However, the steering could be more precise, as it lacks the directness and feedback of sportier rivals.

Practicality and Storage

Practicality is one of the S-Cross’s key strengths. CarExpert highlights the vehicle’s ample cargo space, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. The flat load floor and wide tailgate opening make it easy to load and unload items, which is particularly useful for families or those who frequently carry larger items.

Carsales also points out the numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, including door pockets, a spacious glovebox, and a center console. These features add to the vehicle’s practicality, making it a convenient choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways.

CarsGuide mentions that the S-Cross’s compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is ideal for city driving. The rear parking sensors and camera further enhance its urban usability, making parking and reversing less stressful.

What other review sites have to say

Carsales

Overall Impression: Carsales appreciates the 2024 S-Cross for its practicality and solid performance in urban environments. The review points out that while the S-Cross may not stand out in any one area, it is a reliable and versatile vehicle that meets the needs of most compact SUV buyers.

Pros:

• Practical Cargo Space: Offers good cargo capacity with a flat load floor, making it easy to transport larger items.
• Smooth Ride: The suspension provides a comfortable driving experience, absorbing most road imperfections.
• Decent Handling: The vehicle feels stable and composed, particularly in city driving scenarios.

Cons:
• Lacks Interior Sophistication: The cabin design and materials are functional but not luxurious, which might be a drawback for some buyers.
• Uninspiring Performance: The S-Cross lacks the dynamic driving experience offered by some of its more performance-oriented rivals.

Rating: 69/100

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CarsGuide

Overall Impression: CarsGuide views the 2024 Suzuki S-Cross as a functional and affordable compact SUV that ticks many boxes for practical buyers. The review emphasizes the vehicle’s practicality and value for money, making it a suitable option for those looking for a no-nonsense, reliable vehicle.

Pros:
• Spacious Interior: Ample legroom and headroom for passengers, with rear seats that recline for added comfort.
• Driver Assistance Features: Includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety.

Cons:
• Basic Interior Ambiance: The cabin feels somewhat plain and lacks the premium feel of some rivals.
• Infotainment System: While functional, the system’s graphics and responsiveness are dated compared to newer competitors.

Rating: 3.6/5

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CarExpert

Overall Impression: CarExpert praises the 2024 Suzuki S-Cross for its practical design, efficient performance, and well-rounded features. The S-Cross is highlighted as a solid choice for buyers who value functionality over flashiness, with a focus on delivering a comfortable and reliable driving experience.

Pros:
• Practical Interior: The cabin offers ample space, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage options, making it ideal for families.
• Efficient Engine: The 1.4-liter Boosterjet turbocharged engine is fuel-efficient and performs well in urban settings.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is straightforward, with easy-to-use controls and essential features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Cons:
• Basic Cabin Materials: While durable, the interior materials include hard plastics that detract from the overall premium feel.
• Outdated Infotainment: The system, while functional, is not as advanced or responsive as those in some competitors.

Rating: 8/10

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Drive

Overall Impression: Drive highlights the 2024 S-Cross as a practical and economical choice for urban driving. The review focuses on the vehicle’s strong points, including its fuel efficiency and maneuverability, while also noting areas where it could improve, particularly in terms of performance on the highway.

Pros:
• Fuel Efficiency: The S-Cross delivers impressive fuel economy, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
• Urban Maneuverability: Compact dimensions and good visibility make the S-Cross easy to drive and park in tight city spaces.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride over most road surfaces.

Cons:
• Pricey: The price is way off the mark.
• ANCAP: With the outdated ANCAP, It's in need of a refresh.

Rating: 6.9/10

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Summary

The 2024 Suzuki S-Cross is a well-rounded compact SUV that offers a compelling mix of practicality, efficiency, and value for money. While it may not be the flashiest option in its class, its focus on delivering a comfortable and functional driving experience makes it a strong contender for buyers seeking reliability and versatility. With its solid fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology, the S-Cross is a smart choice for those looking for a capable and affordable SUV.

If you're comparing compact SUVs, the Mazda CX-3 G20 Evolve Review offers valuable insights into the 2024 model's performance, features, and overall appeal. This review highlights what sets the Mazda CX-3 apart in a crowded segment, making it a must-read for anyone considering a versatile and stylish SUV.