Maruti Suzuki S-Cross

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is a crossover that has the tough job of competing with mid-sized SUVs. Following a tepid response to the original model, Maruti updated the S-Cross with a more imposing front-end. The restyle seems to have done the trick, as sales have picked up since. There’s only one powertrain on offer now – a 1.3-litre diesel mild-hybrid that comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The S-Cross is sold exclusively from Maruti’s premium Nexa outlets.

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is a crossover that has the tough job of competing with mid-sized SUVs. Following a tepid r...

The Maruti Suzuki S-Cross is a crossover that has the tough job of competing with mid-sized SUVs. Following a tepid response to the original model, Maruti updated the S-Cross with a more imposing front-end. The restyle seems to have done the trick, as sales have picked up since. There’s only one powertrain on offer now – a 1.3-litre diesel mild-hybrid that comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The S-Cross is sold exclusively from Maruti’s premium Nexa outlets.

While the nose job has helped the S-Cross’ look, there’s no escaping that low-slung crossover look which might not appeal to all tastes. Likewise, you don’t get the same commanding view from the inside as offered by upright SUVs. That being said, the S-Cross’ cabin is spacious, smartly laid-out and well-finished for the price.
Its performance is fair but you will have to work the gearbox to get around the diesel engine’s turbo lag at low speeds. Mild hybrid technology promises to enhance fuel efficiency but you will miss the automatic transmission option, or for that matter, a petrol unit too. The S-Cross makes for a great long-distance cruiser thanks to its excellent high-speed manners. However, its low-speed ride tends to be a bit stiff-kneed.

While the nose job has helped the S-Cross’ look, there’s no escaping that low-slung crossover look which might not ap...

While the nose job has helped the S-Cross’ look, there’s no escaping that low-slung crossover look which might not appeal to all tastes. Likewise, you don’t get the same commanding view from the inside as offered by upright SUVs. That being said, the S-Cross’ cabin is spacious, smartly laid-out and well-finished for the price.
Its performance is fair but you will have to work the gearbox to get around the diesel engine’s turbo lag at low speeds. Mild hybrid technology promises to enhance fuel efficiency but you will miss the automatic transmission option, or for that matter, a petrol unit too. The S-Cross makes for a great long-distance cruiser thanks to its excellent high-speed manners. However, its low-speed ride tends to be a bit stiff-kneed.

All versions of the S-Cross feature dual airbags, anti-lock brakes and Isofix child anchorages as standard. Of the four variants on offer, the second-from-top Zeta trim is the one to go for. It features premium kit like a touchscreen infotainment system, a reverse camera, keyless entry/go and alloy wheels. The range-topping Alpha variant does pack in a bit more equipment, but the extra sum you will have to shell-out is hard to justify.

All versions of the S-Cross feature dual airbags, anti-lock brakes and Isofix child anchorages as standard. Of the fo...

All versions of the S-Cross feature dual airbags, anti-lock brakes and Isofix child anchorages as standard. Of the four variants on offer, the second-from-top Zeta trim is the one to go for. It features premium kit like a touchscreen infotainment system, a reverse camera, keyless entry/go and alloy wheels. The range-topping Alpha variant does pack in a bit more equipment, but the extra sum you will have to shell-out is hard to justify.