The production version of the S-Cross concept, which was displayed by Suzuki at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, was unveiled today in Geneva in the form of the new SX4 compact crossover.
Although the Japanese company initially intended it to be a direct replacement to the original SX4, its designers and engineers decided to “think bigger” in order to meet customers’ demands and so moved up from the B- to the C-segment.
Measuring 4,300 mm long, 1,765 mm wide and 1,575 mm high, the new SX4 is noticeably larger on all dimensions than its forebear (4,135/1,755/1,565 mm respectively) and rides on a 10 mm longer wheelbase (2,600 vs 2,500 mm).
This enables it to offer more interior space and fix one of the main disadvantages of the first SX4: the diminutive luggage space. In its new iteration, Suzuki’s small crossover offers a 430 lt boot that clearly trumps its predecessor’s 270 lt.
Engine options comprise two 1.6-liter units, a gasoline engine based on the current M16A with reduced friction and weight, and a diesel with a variable geometry turbocharger. The former gets a five-speed manual and the latter a six-speeder, while a continuously variable transmission (CVT) featuring paddle shifts and a manual mode with seven fixed “gears” is optional.
The new SX4 will go on sale in European markets from autumn in two- and all-wheel drive versions. Suzuki has developed a new 4WD system with four modes that can be selected from the driver via a rotary switch. And no, since Suzuki is pulling out of the U.S., it won’t be sold in America.
By Andrew Tsaousis
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