Suzuki SX4 S-Cross practicality and boot space

• Five-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating
• Adaptive cruise control from 2016
• Four-wheel drive availability

When building the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross, safety was an inherent feature, as reflected by its five-star rating when crashed under controlled conditions by the experts at Euro NCAP.

Safety kit installed includes electronic stability control, a speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring, seven airbags and a body designed to protect pedestrians in the event of an impact.

As part of the 2016 overhaul, adaptive cruise control (ACC) became available. It works effectively, with three levels of “gap” permitted to the car in front. When the obstruction ahead clears the S-Cross is prompt at returning to the pre-set speed.

High-spec SX4 S-Crosses also feature Suzuki’s AllGrip part-time all-wheel drive system which engages power to the rear wheels as and when the front pair lose traction. It’s a seamless system but in truth few UK customers will benefit from the extra traction.
Usefully the ACC also allows the driver to change gear without disengaging the system, although the conventional cruise control doesn’t feature that degree of convenience.

• Boot space is a strong point
• Rear seat a squeeze for three
• Decent amount of oddment storage

Over the previous generation, Suzuki SX4 S-Cross practicality has improved dramatically. Although just 150mm longer overall, the boot capacity has expanded from 270 litres to 430 litres.

As part of the 2016 facelift, Suzuki rejigged the rear seat allowing the rear seat backrest to have a recline function. When the seat’s moved to a more upright position the boot gains an extra 10 litres of capacity.

You’ll be able to fit four adults into the car relatively easily, but those over six feet tall may find their head touching the roof in the back, particularly in models with the double-sliding glass roof.

There are storage areas in the central console and, despite its lousy positioning, there’s an arm rest behind the handbrake with a storage bin within.

You also get door pockets which include bottle holders for your drinks and a cubby underneath the stereo and heater controls.