About the Suzuki S-Cross
AI-generatedThe Suzuki S-Cross is a compact crossover SUV that has been on sale in the UK since 2013, with a significant facelift in 2016 and a second generation launched in 2021. It offers practical family transport with a spacious interior, decent boot space, and Suzuki's reputation for reliability. The S-Cross sits in the competitive crossover segment, providing an affordable alternative to rivals from Nissan, Renault, and Peugeot. Available exclusively with petrol engines in the UK market, the S-Cross comes with either 1.0-litre or 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged units, offering a good balance of performance and economy. The later models feature a mild-hybrid system (branded as SHVS) to improve fuel efficiency. With its raised driving position, generous standard equipment levels, and competitive pricing, the S-Cross appeals to buyers seeking practicality without the premium price tag of larger SUVs.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation (2013-2016)
2013-2016
- Diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues on 1.6 DDiS diesel models, particularly with short journeys
- Clutch wear on manual transmissions, especially on higher mileage examples
- Infotainment system can be slow to respond and occasionally freezes
- Front suspension bushes can wear prematurely, causing knocking noises
First Generation Facelift (2016-2021)
2016-2021
- AllGrip four-wheel-drive system can develop faults with the rear differential
- 1.4 Boosterjet engine may consume more oil than expected between services
- Rear wheel bearings can be noisy on higher mileage vehicles
- Touchscreen infotainment occasionally loses Bluetooth connectivity
- SHVS mild-hybrid battery can fail, though covered under extended warranty
Second Generation (2021-Present)
2021-Present
Photo by Artūras Kokorevas on Pexels
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,400-£1,800
Insurance Group
18-25
Average Service
£280
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£18,500 - £23,000
£14,000 - £18,500
£10,500 - £14,000
£5,500 - £8,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Spacious interior with generous rear legroom and boot space (430 litres)
- Excellent value for money with competitive pricing and high standard equipment levels
- Seven-year/100,000-mile warranty on newer models (from 2021)
- Low running costs with economical petrol engines
- Good visibility from raised driving position
- Suzuki's strong reliability reputation
Cons
- Uninspiring driving dynamics - feels more functional than fun
Photo by Nascimento Jr. on Pexels
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2019 - Benefits from all the improvements made during the 2016 facelift, including the better Boosterjet engines and improved interior. By 2019, most early teething troubles had been resolved, and the SHVS mild-hybrid system was well-proven.
- 2022 - Second generation model with thoroughly modernized design, improved interior quality, better technology, and the excellent seven-year warranty. Represents the most refined and complete S-Cross package.
Worst Years
- 2014 - Early pre-facelift model with the less refined 1.6 DDiS diesel engine prone to DPF issues. The interior was particularly basic, and the infotainment system was behind the times even when new.
- 2016 - First year of the major facelift meant some early teething troubles with the new Boosterjet engines and mild-hybrid system. Better to opt for a 2017 or later model after initial issues were addressed.
Buying Checklist
Engine5 items
- Check for excessive oil consumption on 1.4 Boosterjet engines - verify dipstick level
- Listen for unusual noises from the engine bay, particularly timing chain rattle on cold start
- Ensure diesel models have had regular DPF regeneration and check for warning lights
- Test drive to ensure smooth acceleration without hesitation or misfires
- Verify all service history is present, particularly oil changes at correct intervals
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The S-Cross name stands for 'Suzuki Cross', emphasizing its crossover credentials between a traditional hatchback and an SUV.
Suzuki extended its UK warranty from three to seven years in 2021, one of the longest manufacturer warranties available.
The S-Cross was originally launched as the SX4 S-Cross before being renamed simply S-Cross in 2016.
Despite its SUV styling, most S-Cross models are front-wheel-drive only, with the AllGrip four-wheel-drive system being an optional extra.
Alternatives to Consider
Nissan Qashqai
7/10The segment leader with better driving dynamics, more upmarket interior, and stronger brand recognition, though it costs more to buy.
Renault Captur
6/10Similar size and practicality with more stylish design and better interior quality, plus a wider dealer network across the UK.
Dacia Duster
7/10Even more affordable with genuine off-road capability, though more basic inside. Great value alternative if budget is tight.
Owner Tips
- 1Avoid diesel models unless you regularly cover high motorway miles - the DPF needs proper regeneration cycles.
- 2Check the service history carefully, particularly for oil changes on the 1.4 Boosterjet engine which can be oil-thirsty.
- 3If buying an AllGrip four-wheel-drive model, ensure it's been properly maintained and test the system thoroughly.
- 4The mild-hybrid battery on SHVS models is covered by an extended warranty - verify this is still valid when buying used.
- 5Suzuki dealers may be less common than mainstream brands - check your local dealer is convenient for servicing.
- 6Opt for SZ-T trim or above to get decent equipment levels including satellite navigation and rear parking sensors.
- 7Test the infotainment system thoroughly before purchase as Bluetooth connectivity can be temperamental on earlier models.
Check a specific Suzuki S-Cross
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