Mbabane – Suzuki Auto South Africa has introduced the new Suzuki Across to the regional market at a starting price of R349 900, positioning it as the brand’s flagship SUV while keeping it below the E500 000 threshold that many buyers in Eswatini are not willing to exceed.
The model was unveiled to media in Cape Town this week, where it was driven along a route stretching from the coastline to Simon’s Town and back towards the V and A Waterfront. Although the launch took place in South Africa, local motorists will not have to wait long.
Mbabane Motors, the flagship Suzuki dealership in the Kingdom of Eswatini, confirmed that the Suzuki Across will be available locally from next week. Prospective buyers who wish to test drive or purchase the new SUV have been encouraged to visit the dealership for more information. 
The Across arrives as competition intensifies in the C SUV segment, particularly in the sub E500 000 bracket where most consumers are shopping. Suzuki has built its standing on affordability, fuel efficiency and a dependable dealer network, factors that have also contributed to its growth in Eswatini.
The new model slots in above the Grand Vitara and rides on Suzuki’s Global C platform. Unlike the hybrid Grand Vitara, the Across is offered in front wheel drive form only and brings back hybrid assistance to the line up through a mild hybrid system.
Under the bonnet sits the 1.5 litre K15C naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 12 volt lithium ion battery system. The setup delivers 76 kilowatts and 137 Newton metres, with an integrated starter generator assisting under load and recovering energy during deceleration. Stop start functionality is included, and combined fuel consumption is rated at 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres.
Buyers can choose between a five speed manual gearbox on the GL derivative or a six speed automatic, which is optional on the GL and standard on the GLX. Paddle shifters are fitted to automatic models.
On the outside, the five seat Across features a wide stance and clean body lines. LED projector headlamps with daytime running lights come standard, linked by a chrome strip across the grille. The lower bumper houses a large air intake, circular fog lamps and an aluminium look underguard, while black cladding around the wheel arches adds a rugged touch.
All derivatives ride on 17 inch alloy wheels. The GL receives painted alloys and the GLX dual tone machined wheels. At the rear, a full width taillight arrangement stretches across the tailgate, complemented by a roof spoiler and shark fin antenna.
Seven mono tone exterior colours are offered, including Splendid Silver, Magma Grey, Sizzling Red, Exuberant Blue, Arctic White Pearl, Bluish Black Pearl and Mystic Green Pearl. Selected shades can be specified with a contrasting black roof.
Inside, the cabin introduces a redesigned steering wheel, stitched finishes and improved materials. A 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1 inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range.
Other features fitted as standard include automatic climate control, wireless smartphone charging with cooling, multiple USB ports, rear air conditioning vents, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, keyless entry, push button start, cruise control, six airbags and Electronic Stability Programme.
Boot space ranges between 333 and 347 litres depending on model, and ground clearance measures 210 millimetres.
The GLX adds synthetic leather upholstery, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a panoramic glass sunroof and an eight speaker Infinity sound system. It also gains a head up display, 360 degree surround view camera and advanced driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
During the coastal drive in Cape Town, the Across delivered a compliant ride and light steering. While performance at sea level proved adequate, the naturally aspirated engine showed modest pulling power when paired with the automatic transmission tuned for efficiency.
Suzuki points out that the 1.5 litre K15 engine family also powers models such as the Jimny, Baleno, Fronx, Ertiga and Grand Vitara, earning a reputation for durability and low running costs.
Pricing for the Suzuki Across is set at E349 900 for the 1.5 GL manual, E372 900 for the 1.5 GL automatic and E464 900 for the 1.5 GLX automatic.
Each model is sold with a five year or 200 000 kilometre warranty and a four year or 60 000 kilometre service plan, offering added peace of mind for buyers in the Kingdom.
