Suzuki’s Across Raises the Bar

By Lindani Buthelezi

SUZUKI has turned heads again with the launch of the Across mild‑hybrid — a bigger, bolder sibling to the Vitara that blends rugged stance with everyday practicality. Built in India but unmistakably Suzuki, the Across stretches 4,360mm in length, rides high with 210mm ground clearance, and arrives in South Africa with striking design, smart tech, and competitive pricing.

Exterior, Package and Styling

Distinct Suzuki genetics are visible inside and out, with narrow LED headlamps and integrated daytime running lights in both trim levels, GL and GLX. Priced from R349,900 to R464,900, the Across fits neatly into Suzuki’s line‑up of models under half a million rand.

At the recent media launch in sunny Cape Town, we drove the GL model which comes with features such as dark grey alloys, LED daytime running lights, a 10.1‑inch infotainment screen, 10.2‑inch digital instrument cluster, USB‑C ports (two front, two rear), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging pad, six airbags, Isofix child seat anchors, powered tailgate, and rear camera.

In GLX trim, the Across adds a panoramic sunroof, ventilated synthetic leather seats, leather‑covered multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters, head‑up display, 360‑degree view camera, Infinity eight‑speaker audio, and a two‑tone roof. Buyers are spoiled for choice with paint options ranging from Arctic White Pearl to Exuberant Blue Pearl Metallic.

Power and Drive

Across the range, the Across is powered by Suzuki’s popular K‑series 1.5‑litre, four‑cylinder petrol engine paired with a 12V lithium‑ion battery. It produces 76kW and 137Nm of torque, delivered through the front wheels via a five‑speed manual or six‑speed automatic transmission.

The Cape Town launch route included highways, winding coastal roads and urban stretches. The Across proved smooth, practical and driver‑focused, with generous luggage space (333–347 litres) and comfortable seating for five. With 210mm ground clearance, it is well‑suited for rural travel. Suzuki claims fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km, close to the 5.5 litres/100km we achieved at 120km/h.

Rivals

This is a fiercely competitive segment, dominated by new Chinese arrivals such as the Chery Tiggo, Jaecoo J5, Omoda C5 and Lepas L, alongside established rivals like the VW T‑Cross and Kia Seltos.

Pricing and Warranty

The Across range comes with a four‑year/60,000km service plan and a five‑year/200,000km warranty.

• Across 1.5 Mild‑Hybrid GL 5MT: R349,900

• Across 1.5 Mild‑Hybrid GL 6AT: R372,900

• Across 1.5 Mild‑Hybrid GLX 6AT: R464,900  TQ