While some in India await the Toyota RAV4 hybrid launch in mid-2021, Europeans can shop even a Suzuki version of the same today – the Suzuki ACross. The Suzuki version is available only as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and first media reviews are out giving prospects a list of things to watch out for when they book a test drive.
In the UK, the Suzuki ACross beat its donor model, the Toyota RAV4 Plug-in (also called Toyota RAV4 Prime and Toyota RAV4 PHV) arriving in the market a few weeks earlier. At an eye-watering GBP 45,599 or INR 43.81 lakh, the Suzuki ACross is deemed expensive even by the British auto experts.
carbuyer.co.uk in its Suzuki ACross review says that the handling is “neat”, but the PHEV tech adding 300 kilos to the weight affects ride quality. It points out that the ride quality isn’t smooth enough and that the Ford Kuga PHEV would offer a better comfort. The suspension is too stiff, and that could mean an unpleasant drive on broken roads.
| Parameters | Suzuki ACross Specifications |
| Drivetrain Layout | AWD |
| Engine Model | A25A-FXS 2.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol |
| Engine Power | 136 kW (185 PS) |
| Engine Torque | 227 Nm |
| Front Motor Model | 5NM |
| Front Motor Power | 134 kW (182 PS) |
| Front Motor Torque | 270 Nm |
| Rear Motor Model | 4NM |
| Rear Motor Power | 40 kW (54 PS) |
| Rear Motor Torque | 121 Nm |
| Combined Power | 306 PS |
| Transmission | E-CVT |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery Energy Storage Capacity | 18.1 kWh (355 V, 50.9 Ah) |
| Acceleration Time (0-100 km/h) | 6.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h |
| Electric-only Range | 75 km |
| Fuel Consumption (WLTP) | 100 km/l |
| CO2 Emissions | 22 g/km |
The Suzuki ACross has an 18.1 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack to run on zero-emission energy. It can drive up to 75 km or 46.6 miles in EV mode, and thus, its electric-only range is higher than most PHEVs, which is typically around 30 miles (48 km) on a full charge. Thanks to the high-quality interior and a well-engineered powertrain, the drive is smooth and silent, even at the top speed in EV mode – 135 km/h/84 mph.
On switching to the hybrid mode – auto EV/HV or HV-only, the shift between the combustion engine and the electric motors – there are two of them (front & rear), is seamless and quiet. The fourth drive mode is battery charger mode, and what it does is self-explanatory. The Suzuki ACross tries to spin the wheels using only electricity for as long as possible, says drivingelectric.com‘s review. The first-ever Suzuki PHEV is built for comfort and efficiency, there’s no two ways about it.
Getting to the efficiency, this is the aspect where the Suzuki ACross gets its bragging rights. The WLTP fuel consumption rating of the Suzuki ACross is an astonishing 282 mpg or 100 km/l. The CO2 emission rating is also worth noting – 22 g/km. In countries where vehicle taxes, incentives and/or insurance costs depend significantly on the fuel consumption and/or CO2 emission, this Suzuki PHEV could be a great choice.
The Suzuki ACross comes in a decently packaged single configuration, which means there’s no trim selection or the hassle of a configurator. LED headlamps with a bi-beam projector and an LED DRL, 19-inch alloy wheels, 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel and dual-zone auto AC are standard equipment. As autocar.co.uk‘s review notes, satellite navigation is not included, and that is inexcusable in the UK.
Overall, the Suzuki ACross has received a warm reception from the media, its expensiveness and firm ride are the negatives Suzuki can work on by launching new trims and changing the springs. If Suzuki finds a way to make it more affordable it could end up with a new popular premium model in Europe. That would not be the case here as the Suzuki ACross is not coming to India.
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