‘SWEET and cool’ that’s the brand-new Suzuki ACROSS SUV.
The mild- Hybrid Japanese brand was introduced to members of the press in Cape Town, this week, and as customary with Suzuki- we had chance to test this cutting edge technology driven brand across (pun intended) the hills and mountains of misty kaapstad on Wednesday morning.
It comes in three derivate: ACROSS 1.5 Mild-hybrid GL 5MT, GL 6AT and 1.5 Mild-hybrid GLX 6AT respectively.
True that SA is a home of SUVs and this was affirmed by the manufacturer, whose headhonchos addressed the press that it’s ‘sweet and cool’ to own- be it for the City or off-road, within the C-segment SUV market.
An authoritative front end makes a strong first impression thanks to features such as perfectly contoured bonnet creases and a pair of narrow LED projector headlamps (with integrated daytime running lights) linked by a satin chrome strip running the full breadth of the upper grille.
Yokohama San, chief engineer at Suzuki, cited it ‘speaks technology, innovation and life-style’.
It is identifiable by its sweeping silhouette and sculpted body lines, a wide and dynamic stance which makes it look like it’s in motion even when it’s parked.
This standout design element is complemented by a large trapezoidal lower intake, an aluminium-look protective front underguard and a classy piano black finisher framed by compact circular foglamps.
Its complemented by dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels on the GL model and striking dual-tone 17-inch machined alloy wheels on the GLX. Both are shod with 215/60 profile tyres and a full-size spare is also included.
GL models are fitted with silver roof rails while on the GLX they adopt a grey finish.
The one we tested, alongside Mike Moroesi (RockStar Media) let me hasten to state this palooka made me his driver, for hours long, as the GLX spotted an illuminated glove box, four cup holders and four bottle holders (two of each front and rear), 60:40-split single-fold rear seats, a large centre console box with an integrated armrest, inductive charging and two 12V accessory sockets – one of which is located in the boot for powering things like portable car fridges or powerstations.
Standard features include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Convenience features include a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, cruise control, four USB Type-C ports and a wireless charging pad with active cooling.
The cabin features fabric upholstery with a height-adjustable driver’s seat, while the polyurethane multifunction steering wheel incorporates matte-finish controls and is adjustable for both tilt and reach.
On automatic models, integrated paddle shifters allow drivers to take charge of their gear changes.
Comfort is further enhanced by automatic air conditioning with a PM2.5 air filter and rear ventilation outlets, while a smart powered tailgate adds everyday practicality.
On safety, features are comprehensive and include six airbags (front, side and curtain), as well as ABS, EBD, ESP and hill hold control.
Automatic models are also equipped with an electric parking brake with brake hold.
According to Brendon Carpenter- Suzuki Automotive SA Marketing and Sales Director- ACROSS is available in Arctic White Pearl, Splendid Silver Pearl Metallic, Mystic Green Pearl, Magma Grey Metallic, Sizzling Red Metallic, Exuberant Blue Pearl Metallic and Bluish Black Pearl.
GLX models have the option of three dual-tone paint finishes where Splendid Silver Pearl Metallic, Sizzling Red Metallic or Exuberant Blue Pearl Metallic can be contrasted with a roof skin in Bluish Black Pearl.
Pricing starts at R349,900 for the ACROSS 1.5 Mild-hybrid GL 5MT.
The GL 6AT is priced at R372,900
1.5 Mild-hybrid GLX 6AT priced at R464,900.
Customers opting for the GLX model can also specify the two-tone exterior finish at an additional cost of R4,500.
All prices include VAT, while the range is sold with a four-year/60,000km service plan and a five-year/200,000km promotional warranty.
To wrap up the day, we hopped on a helicopter to experience the overview of the majestic Cape Town’s top brands from Table Mt, to the DHL Stadium, Robben Island and other tourism hot spots that continues to draw local and international visitors into ‘Mother City’.
So, let’s cross ACROSS cities…
Image SLM (The cool looking Brendon Carpenter- Suzuki Automotive SA Marketing and Sales Director, recorded addressing media and influencers at the ACROSS launch, Cape Town on Wednesday evening at Norval Foundation).
