Aesthetically, the Across is not an evolution of the Grand Vitara, but a brand-new model despite using the same Suzuki-developed Global C platform as its sibling. Longer and wider, the Indian-built five-seat Across is more spacious, with between 333ℓ and 347ℓ of boot space and a ground clearance of 210mm.
At first glance, the Across cuts a distinct figure with a deep lower-air intake, rugged wheel arch cladding and a faux front skidplate underneath the bumper.
Good-looking ride
All models are equipped with LED headlights, and roof rails being standard on the range-topping GLX. At the same time, the latter rides on 17” machined alloy wheels whereas the entry-level GL has imitation, or what Suzuki calls ‘painted’ wheels, of the same size.
Compared to the Aston Martin DBX and Alfa Romeo Junior, when viewed from the rear, the GLX’s light arrangement has been draped across the tailgate before ‘connecting’ with the main clusters.
Inside, the interior is a significant premium step up with not only a new steering wheel, but plusher materials and levels of fit and finish.
Adding to this is the standard fitting of a new 10,25” digital instrument cluster and 10,1” infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all models.
Also standard is automatic climate control and a new centre console with a stepped frontal design, including the upper shelf for the wireless smartphone charger that is standard on both the GL and GLX.
Generously specced
In terms of spec, both the GL and GLX are furnished with LED fog lamps, keyless entry, hands-free electric tailgate, push-button start, reverse camera, rear parking sensors, six airbags, cruise control, and an electronic stability programme.
Building on these, the GLX swaps the cloth seats for imitation leather and the six-speaker sound system for an eight-speaker Infinity unit.
Also included is head-up display, electric driver’s seat, panoramic glass sunroof, and ventilated front seats.
The expanded list of safety and driver assistance systems include a 360° surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring.
HYBRID RETURNS
Up front, the reintroduction of hybrid assistance sees the return of the 1,5ℓ K15C petrol engine previously on offer in the Grand Vitara. Paired to a 12-volt system, the hybrid develops 76kW of power and 137Nm of torque, representing a drop of one kilowatt and a single Nm from the 1,5ℓ K15B engine.
On the GL, a five-speed manual gearbox is standard. A six-speed automatic transmission is also offered on the base model, while the auto box is the sole choice for the GLX.
Regardless of transmission, Suzuki claims a combined fuel consumption of 5,3ℓ/100km.
On the media launch route around Cape Town, the Across performed well, but was underwhelming in the power department. Even at sea level, the engine feels underpowered and the auto box not matched ratio-wise.
Set up for efficiency, the auto box makes a dash for sixth gear, leaving the engine to struggle because of the low torque output.
What’s the verdict?
The Across is very well devised package. Well-priced, it also represents a serious alternative to rivals from Chery and GWM Haval at a time when Chinese marques are still not universally accepted.
Vehicle pricing
Across 1.5 GL R349 900
Across 1.5 GL AT R372 900
Across 1.5 GLX AT R464 900
Pricing includes a five-year/200 000km warranty and a four-year/60 000km service plan.
