With the Across, Suzuki has expanded its portfolio to include a large-format model as a plug-in hybrid. The Across project grew out of a partnership between Toyota and Suzuki. The mutual marketing of cars saves development costs and expands the opportunities for both car brands to reach new customer groups. While Suzuki focuses on mild hybrid technology, hybrid technology is offered in the Across in cooperation with Toyota. The Across, based on the RAV4, differs in a few details and is intended to replace the Grand Vitara, which has been removed from the range, and reduce fleet consumption. However, at the latest when it comes to the curb weight, which is a good 500 kilograms more than the former Grand Vitara, you notice the deviation from Suzuki's consistent lightweight construction.
The generous amount of space is an important argument for both business travelers and families when buying a new car. This gives Suzuki a good argument for switching from the old Grand Vitara to the new Across. There is also an extensive package of assistance systems and a digital update in the interior. A balanced and comfortable suspension ensures relaxed gliding. The powertrain is interesting, a large-capacity 2,5-liter four-cylinder is connected via planetary gears to an electric motor. In addition, a compact electric motor on the rear axle provides propulsion.
driving impressions
The background noise in the interior is very quiet in city and country traffic, only when you drive at high speed or press the kick-down does the combustion engine turn perceptibly. We test in the relatively mild winter in the real north at temperatures between 0 and 10 degrees outside temperature. With the consumers switched on, we are on average between 6 and 7 liters of premium petrol plus electricity consumption, depending on the load. If it is fully stressed on the highway, it is of course significantly higher.
Four driving modes can be implemented when driving. In pure EV mode, only the electric motor is used as a drive source. In the dual Auto EV/HV mode, the petrol engine is used when required, typically during kick-down or rapid overtaking manoeuvres. Of course, when the battery is empty, the petrol engine primarily works. There is also the option of charging the battery while driving.
With the high seating position, the Across ensures a clear all-round view, the driver's seat can be individually adjusted to your own needs. With the large central touchscreen, the settings for audio functions, navigation, climate or telephone can be adjusted interactively. The operation is pleasantly easy to implement. The navigation is not part of the basic package and can be implemented as an alternative via Android Auto or Apple Carplay. If you don't use the touch display, you can control the most important functions centrally via the multifunction steering wheel. This includes the adaptive cruise control.
The purely electric range is actually a good 50 kilometers in our winter test with a fully charged battery. If you commute and can charge your car overnight at your own wall box, you can cover this distance in a relaxed manner without consuming any fuel.
Transport with trailer
We used the test period intensively for trailer operation. Braked trailers weighing up to 1.500 kg can be used for transport. The Suzuki can use its all-wheel drive well when towing a trailer and pulled consistently in all loading situations. This means that the Across can be used even more flexibly in everyday life.
A configuration
The Across is only available as a plug-in hybrid with full equipment at a price of 58.190 euros (October 2023). If you are looking for an alternative to the discontinued Grand Vitara at Suzuki, you will find the Across, an SUV with full equipment and plenty of space and a payload of up to 495 kg. A braked trailer weighing up to 1.500 kg can also be towed. With its variable use, it can be used in a variety of ways.
It is only available as a fully equipped model with very extensive assistance systems. It offers a very flexible trunk for hobbies and leisure activities. The normal volume is 490 liters, when the rear seats are folded down the usable space expands to 1.604 liters.
Conclusion
With the large-format Across, Suzuki has both closed the gap to the former Grand Vitara and slightly reduced fleet consumption. Demand is subdued due to the limitation to a single configuration. Suzuki drivers who value a lot of space and flexible use of the vehicle can relax with the Across on long-distance journeys with sophisticated assistance systems.
Addendum
Test in February 2024
How do you like the Suzuki Across?
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