Overview

The Suzuki Across might look familiar to you. That’s because it’s a badge-engineered version of the Toyota RAV4. That’s not bad thing, though. Suzuki is only just getting started on its electrification strategy – and being a newcomer to the hybrid SUV space, it’s a great idea to use one of the best examples of the breed as a starting point.

Like its sister car, the Across is a large, five-seat SUV designed to compete with the likes of the Mercedes GLB, Ford Kuga and Skoda Karoq. But unlike the RAV4, which is available with a self-charging hybrid powertrain (one that doesn’t need to be plugged in), Suzuki is only offering the Across as a plug-in hybrid.

Under the bonnet, there’s a 2.5-litre petrol engine, which can either power the wheels directly or work as a generator to recharge the car’s 18.1kWh battery pack when you can’t charge it at the mains. There’s a motor on each axle, which gives the Across four-wheel drive – and, with a full battery, it can cover up to 46 miles on electric power alone.

There are very few differences between the Across and RAV4. Suzuki has restyled the car’s radiator grille and headlights, but the remainder of the car appears identical, right down to the alloy wheels.

If you choose the Suzuki Across over the Toyota RAV4, you’ll lose three obvious items and one not-so obvious benefit. The Suzuki isn’t available with a wireless smartphone charging pad, its infotainment system lacks sat-nav and you can’t have it with a two-tone roof. These are minor sacrifices, really. However, you also lose three years of warranty cover, which isn’t minor at all.

The Across is only available in one specification. However, if you’re prepared to overlook the items above, it is rather generous. You get LED headlights, heated front and rear seats, lashings of driver assistance technology and a 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Even metallic paint is included as standard, with options being limited to just a few decorative accessories and a roof rack/towing kit.

Read on to find out what we make of the Suzuki Across’s interior, practicality, engines and driving experience. Then, in our verdict page we’ll tell you whether you should spend your money on one or not.