The Indian automobile scenario is changing like never before. Gone are the days when people only chose the popular hatchbacks, sedans and some bulky SUVs.
Now the customers are more aware of what is currently trending in the market and they are shifting their focus towards more contemporary, sleek and stylish cars with inherent character of off-roading.
This perception has led the beginning of a new segment known as Crossovers in the market.
If we look a couple of years back, these cars were only widespread in the European markets. But as Indian customers look for all-in-one vehicle, these Crossovers are gradually foraying in our market.
Some of them like Etios Cross, Volkswagen Polo Cross and Fiat Avventura have already marked their presence. Others are also casting their shadows well before their actual launch.
One of these is from Maruti’s stable christened as ‘SX4 Cross’. Let’s find out five crucial points about this car.
The Looks
The upcoming SX4 Cross from Maruti as the name denotes, is a sheer representation of the outphased SX4 sedan. Though failed to allure the C-segment car buyers, the sedan version has bequeathed some elements on its Crossover version.
There is nothing special to boast about the exteriors as the front shows the traditional Suzuki grille and symbol while the headlamps and the daytime running lights (may be in the top of the line variant) surely reminds of SX4.
The side profile gets muscular with the addition of claddings that makes clear that the car is eligible for off-roading. Also the improved wheelbase and the sporty looking 16-17 inch alloys shows its off-roading traits.
At the back, company has worked upon two-part tail light design philosophy for style enhancement, while to make the rear profile more interesting, the scuff plates have been added.
Overall, the Crossover with its half-hatch half-SUV stance, looks pretty masculine and stylish at the same time.
The Inside
Step inside and the typical Suzuki interiors welcomes you but with added practicality. There are large bins, two cupholders, glovebox and cubbyholes for placing stuffs.
The quality of plastic is decent and slightly up from Swifts while the blue-ringed instrument cluster with chrome accents is a nice supplement. The dashboard is quite simple and everything is nicely tucked at its place.
The availability of touchscreen is still in limbo but looking at the growing competition in the market, the Indian version of SX4 S-Cross might get this. There are no rear AC vents which could be a minus point as this feature is becoming popular on every passing day.
As per the roominess inside, the legroom and shoulder room are good enough to support adult passenger but surety cannot be given of headroom, especially for the six-footers.
But what is most generous is the 2,600mm wheelbase which translates into ample space at the back. The S-Cross will be offered with 420 liters of boot space which is excellent looking at the stature of the car.
Overall, the interiors seem to be above average and still some details remains unclear until the official launch.
Under Hood
The S-Cross is expected to inherit the same set of engines as working under the hood of its other siblings. Both the diesel and petrol variants would get the 1.6 litre units.
The 1.6 litere diesel is the same Fiat-sourced engine that belts out 118bhp and 320Nm of torque while the entry level variants might get the 1.3 liter DOHC engine that produces 88.8bhp and max torque rated at 200Nm.
On the other hand, the 1.6 litre petrol engine can produce 118bhp and peak torque of 156Nm. The petrol versions can comes up with both options; either a CVT transmission or 5-speed MT while the diesel powered vehicles would come mated to 6-speed manual transmission gearbox.
Mileage and Safety
The car is yet to be brought in the Indian market but looking at the tried and trusted mills mentioned above, the fuel efficiency will be definitely impressive.
The Crossover with the petrol engine is likely to deliver an average of 15.5kmpl while the 1.6 litre diesel one is expected to return upto 20kmpl.
The entry level 1.3 litre engine which is presently powering the Ritz and Swift hatchbacks can return 22kmpl when employed in the Crossover.
As far as safety features are concerned, the SX4-Cross would come equipped with ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, engine immobilizer, central locking system and other significant features to cope up with competition.
Pricing
Maruti has always played smart when it comes to pricing. As per the available reports, the price would be in the region of 8-10 lakh and at this price point, it would surely give stiff competition to its rivals.
With Grand Vitara and Kizashi disappearing from the market without any trace, Maruti is banking high on this car to build its image back.
Just wait and watch as the car is expected to be in showrooms in Q1 2015.
Photographs: All images courtesy, Suzuki Motors
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