Suzuki S-Cross: Comparing the UK-spec and India-spec models
Maruti-Suzuki has just unveiled the highly awaited S-Cross in India. The car is positioned as a premium offering and Maruti Suzuki has indicated that the S-Cross may sport a higher price tag than the Ciaz. While the India-spec S-Cross comes with a host of features it is interesting to note the differences between the UK and Indian versions of the crossover.
Visually the car is similar save for the new twin slat chrome grille for India. The UK spec version gets the matte black triple slat grille. The front, side and rear plastic claddings are similar and so are the pseudo scuff plates. While the dimensions remain the same, Maruti Suzuki has tailored the car to suit our conditions.
While the UK spec S-Cross comes with a choice of a 1.6-litre petrol and diesel mills, the Indian S-Cross comes the option of two Fiat sourced diesel engines only - the tried and tested 1.3-litre DDiS engine as seen in the Ertiga and Ciaz and a new to India 1.6-litre DDiS diesel engine. The 1.3-litre oil burner is in a similar state of tune while the new 1.6-litre unit is the new performance king in the Maruti Suzuki stable. The 1.6-litre DDiS produces a max power of 120PS at 3,750rpm and torque of 320Nm at 1,750rpm and is similar to the one in the UK spec S-Cross. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission which makes the S-Cross the first Maruti to get a 6-speed tranny.
Meanwhile, the Suzuki M16A, 1.6-litre petrol that's available internationally also produces 120PS and comes with the option of either a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission. In, addition the international S-Cross gets an optional AWD system that Suzuki calls AllGrip. The system is lighter and more efficient than the unit in the Grand Vitara. It is an on demand AWD system and is available with both the petrol and diesel models. Maruti Suzuki will not offer the AWD system in India as of now.
The interiors features a similar layout and blue backlit instrumentation. The steering is also similar on the UK and India spec models and the S-Cross is the first Maruti to get cruise control, but only in the top trim.
The wheels are different with the top spec S-Cross getting better looking 17-inch alloys while the Indian S-Cross gets 16-inch alloys with a higher profile tyres for better bump absorption.
The feature list on the international and Indian model is almost similar. The kit on Indian S-Cross includes automatic HID headlamps, rain sensing auto wipers, automatic climate control, reverse parking camera with sensors, reclining rear seats and a touchscreen infotainment system as seen in the Ciaz.
We really wish Maruti Suzuki had offered the option of an automatic transmission as seen in upcoming Hyundai Creta.
More from OVERDRIVE on the Maruti Suzuki S-Cross:
Maruti Suzuki S-Cross first drive review
Image gallery: Maruti Suzuki S-Cross
Spec comparo: Maruti Suzuki S-Cross vs Ford EcoSport vs Renault Duster vs Hyundai Creta
Suzuki S-Cross diesel gets a twin clutch automatic gearbox
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