Suzuki is maturing as a brand with a cupboard full of awards, a comprehensive model range and now 121 dealers across Southern Africa.

Perhaps to celebrate, Suzuki has introduced a grown-up car: the Across, which becomes their new flagship model and joint halo vehicle alongside the evergreen Jimny.

The Across is a C-segment SUV or crossover that’s just slightly smaller than the Toyota Corolla Cross and shares some styling cues, though it remains distinctly Suzuki from the platform up.

Two trim levels are available: GL, which offers all the basics, and GLX, which includes additional features and technology. There’s one engine choice with mild-hybrid electric assist, paired with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The mild-hybrid system’s key component is the integrated starter generator, which assists the petrol engine under load (providing 18% more power) and recovers kinetic energy during deceleration. This energy charges the 12-valve 2,2 kW lithium-ion hybrid battery.

The Across is attractive from all angles, with the rear being particularly well executed. Seven colours are available plus three two-tone options for the GLX: Arctic White Pearl, Splendid Silver Pearl Metallic, Mystic Green Pearl, Magma Grey Metallic, Sizzling Red Metallic, Exuberant Blue Pearl Metallic and Bluish Black Pearl.

The dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels on the GL and dual-tone 17-inch machined alloy wheels on the GLX complement the styling well. Both models feature 215/60 profile tyres and a full-size spare wheel.

The Across uses the proven K15C 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with a 12.0:1 compression ratio and continuous mild-hybrid assistance, producing 76 kW at 6 000 rpm and 137 Nm at 4 400 rpm. Suzuki claims a combined fuel consumption of 5,3 l/100 km, though our peninsula launch drive achieved 5,8 l/100 km.

Performance is family-oriented rather than sporty. Coastal driving provides adequate in-gear acceleration for normal overtaking, though high-altitude performance may feel breathless. The brakes are well-calibrated, as are the suspension, while the steering feels appropriately light. It’s pleasant to drive, with town manoeuvring made easy, especially in the GLX with its 360° camera system.

The cabin features clean, minimalist design with ample cup holders, bottle storage and USB points. The comfortable front seats include cooling function but lack seat warmers.

Thankfully, real manual buttons and switches handle daily adjustments and you can disable stop-start and ADAS functions with dedicated buttons.

The entry-level GL includes a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10,1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard features include reverse camera, rear parking sensors, cruise control, four USB Type-C ports and wireless charging pad with active cooling. The GLX adds eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, leather combination seats, leather-covered multifunction steering wheel with piano black controls and paddle shifters, head-up display, eight-speaker Harman Infinity sound system, 360º view camera, 64-colour ambient lighting and panoramic glass sunroof. Unfortunately, the sunroof cannot be deleted as an option.

For safety, the GLX features comprehensive Level 2 ADAS including DSBS II, adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning and prevention, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, high beam assist and weave alert.

In essence, this is technology with purpose rather than gimmickry, a sensible car for sensible buyers.

Pricing starts at R349 900 for the GL 5MT, R372 900 for the GL 6AT and R464 900 for the GLX 6AT (automatic-only). Two-tone exterior finish costs an additional R4 500 on the GLX.

While ADAS requires the GLX, the GL includes reverse camera and parking assistance. The choice comes down to heart (GLX) versus head (GL). The package includes a four-year/60 000 km service plan and five-year/200 000 km warranty.

Competition includes Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Corolla Cross and RAV4, Hyundai Creta and Chery Tiggo4Pro. The Across’ advantages include attractive styling, proven brand reliability and extensive dealer-network coverage.