KUALA LUMPUR: Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd welcomed the new Suzuki S-CROSS into its model line-up yesterday.

“With its rich features and technology for its price, the S-CROSS paves the way forward for Suzuki and strengthens an already renowned line-up of durable SUVs and practical crossovers, said Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd managing director (MD) Keiichi Suzuki.

According to Suzuki, the new Suzuki S-CROSS’ physical structure is the result of intense aerodynamics-focused computer-aided engineering while the chassis itself is made of high-rigidity and lightweight materials. He said these characteristics help to heighten the S-CROSS’ performance, stability and fuel economy.

Suzuki said the car’s mix of efficiency, practicality and safety makes it a perfect ride for mature professionals with active lifestyles, and “we are dedicated to ensuring a fulfilling ownership experience for our customers”.

Powering the Suzuki S-CROSS is a lightweight, low-friction 1.6-litre petrol engine which produces a healthy 86kW (117hp) at 6,000rpm and 156Nm at 4,400rpm. It is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission which propels the front wheels of the 2WD S-CROSS. The car returns an official fuel consumption rating of just 17.2km/L under the UNECE R101 New European Driving Cycle.

With the fuel-saving properties of the Suzuki S-CROSS, it is still a highly capable machine in a straight line, doing 0-100kph in a respectable 11 seconds. The S-CROSS tips the scale with a kerb weight of less than 1,185kg.

The Suzuki S-CROSS comes with integrated roof-rails, aerodynamic wing mirrors, striking 17-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers and bright, automatic HID headlamps with daytime-running LEDs and fog lamps. Its safety equipment consists of seven airbags, Electronic Stability Programme, ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist and Hill-hold Control.

“The S-CROSS is not just a car. Like all other Suzukis, it’s your ‘Way of Life!’,” said Suzuki.

This article first appeared in The Edge Financial Daily, on November 21, 2014.