The Suzuki SX4 S-Cross has always been a bit of a left-field choice for those after a tall-riding car with off-road styling – less boxy than the similarly sized Suzuki Vitara, it was more like a tall hatchback than a proper SUV.

Its divisive styling was brought more into the mainstream with a facelift in 2016, as well as a boost in ride height that gave the car a more SUV-appropriate stance. Both changes strengthened its ability to compete with the likes of the Nissan Qashqai, Mazda CX-5, Skoda Karoq and Kia Sportage.

While its looks are still an acquired taste, its underpinnings are based on the excellent Suzuki Swift’s, which means it drives and rides well.

Choice of engines and all-wheel drive option

When launched in 2013 the SX4 S-Cross came with a choice of 1.6-litre engines in both petrol and DDiS diesel configurations, the former coming with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic.

The petrols were replaced in 2016, and then again in 2020, when the diesel was also removed from the line up. The sole engine choice is now a 1.4-litre, 48v mild-hybrid turbo.

You’ve always been able to specify Suzuki’s AllGrip all-wheel drive system, with its four selectable driving modes. This promises better performance and safety when conditions take a turn for the worse.

Hard-wearing but hard to love interior

The interior, while a little dated, seems hard-wearing and there’s a feeling of honesty about the car. Some of the cabin’s plastics feel cheaper than its rivals but then it is significantly less expensive to buy so you can forgive that.

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In 2016 the facelift added more soft-touch materials to the dashboard, which does help lift the ambiance a little, but there’s no getting around the older looking dial design and air-con controls.

The 7.0-inch touchscreen looks a bit aftermarket but does the job quite nicely, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available on higher spec models.

Large boot, clever roof

According to Suzuki, the SX4 is a class-leader in interior and luggage space. The boot has 430 litres of capacity, which means it trumps the likes of hatchbacks S-Cross buyers are deserting such as the Vauxhall Astra and the Ford Focus. From the 2016 overhaul this could be increased to 440 litres by positioning the rear seat backrest in a slightly more upright position.

On higher-spec cars you’ll also be able to make use of a double-sliding glass panoramic roof, with both front and rear portions that can be opened. Despite Suzuki’s claims to be first to market with this, BMW offered a similar feature on its 1992 5 Series Touring, albeit with steel rather than glazed panels.

Read on for the full Suzuki SX4 S-Cross review including its practicality, if its interior measures up, how much it costs to run, what it’s like to drive – and whether we recommend buying one.