Suzuki Motor Corporation is unveiling its all-new SX4 at the 83rd Geneva International Motor Show on 5th March. The new SX4 is a production model based on the S-Cross, which Suzuki showcased at the 2012 Paris Motor Show.
Suzuki's designers and engineers began developing the new model as a successor to the current SX4. However, through the pursuit of responding to customer expectations with regard to crossovers in Europe and other parts of the world, they realised that they needed to "think bigger". While moving into the C-segment with its increased size, the new model inherits the "SX4" emblem to show that Suzuki (represented by the letter "S") is a pioneer of both crossover and four-wheel drive (indicated by the "X" and "4" respectively).
Suzuki created the new SX4 by uniting its compact-car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles. As a result of focussing on giving the new SX4 a distinctive crossover styling, class-leading space for passengers and luggage, next-generation 4WD performance and one of the lowest CO2 emissions in the segment, it achieves a remarkable combination of styling, utility, performance and fuel economy. It is a model which can offer great driving enjoyment and versatile family usage for even more people in an even wider range of situations.
Suzuki will be building the new SX4 at the Magyar Suzuki plant in Hungary and the car will be on sale from this autumn onwards. Magyar Suzuki plays an important role as Suzuki's European production centre. The launch of the new SX4 marks the start of an expansion programme in which Magyar Suzuki will extend its exports to more countries, increase its production volume, and establish itself as an important manufacturing base for Suzuki's global strategy.
Key features
• Distinctive crossover styling
The styling combines a bold, sporty crossover shape, strong lines, a refined, distinctive character and excellent aerodynamics.
• More space for people and luggage
The C-segment dimensions benefit families by making the new SX4 a class leader in terms of passenger space and luggage capacity (430 litres*).
*measured using the German Association of Automotive Industry (VDA) method.
• Next-generation 4WD with ALLGRIP technology
A new 4WD system has four driver-selectable driving modes for better performance and safety under diverse conditions.
• Some of the lowest CO2 emissions in its category
Engine refinements, superior aerodynamics, and the high-tensile steel used in the bodywork mean that the new SX4 has remarkably low CO2 emissions for a C-segment crossover.
• World's first double sliding glass sunroof
A double sliding glass panoramic sunroof – the first of its kind – has one of the largest opening areas in this category.
Design
• Key design themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics
• Urban sophistication and SUV ruggedness
• New colours to give emphasis to the styling
The new SX4's design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. Aerodynamics which improve fuel economy, a bold, characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches all combine to create a highly distinctive look. A sharp body line, wheel arch mouldings, skid garnishes and integrated roof rails emphasise the crossover styling.
Exterior design
• Emotion
Emotionally appealing features include modulated lines running along the sides from front bumper to rear combination lamps, plus a rounded bonnet which conveys a sense of strength and solidity.
• Quality
Quality features include chrome items at the front; LED daytime running lamps in the headlamps; boldly contoured shoulders along the side lines; and two-part rear combination lamps.
• Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics are expressed and achieved in every area of the design, such as the roof line which slopes downwards towards the rear; smooth contours across the side of the body; a modulated line running from front to rear; low-drag wheels and door mirrors.
Interior design
• Emotion
Emotionally appealing features include an instrument panel which is shaped to give a sense of width and dynamism.
• Quality
The contours of the instrument panel overlap the doors and the soft padding is pleasant to touch. The seats are shaped and stitched to convey a sense of sophistication, while the silver decorations create a sporty look against the black interior.
Exterior colours
A range of 10 exterior colours includes two new options which highlight the new SX4's urban credentials.
• Crystal Lime Metallic (ZUS)
This new colour brings a hint of the countryside to the city and a hint of the city to the countryside. People who see the car have a lasting impression of vivid greenness.
• Amethyst Grey Pearl Metallic (ZUR)
A new deep and lustrous grey, with a touch of amethyst evoking a spark in darkness.
Performance
• A blend of all-terrain crossover capability and on-road performance
• A powertrain delivering environmental compatibility and great performance
• Transmission systems which heighten driving pleasure
• Remarkably low CO2 emissions for a C-segment crossover
The new SX4's performance results from an exceptional combination of attributes: 4WD SUV capability; great handling – derived from the Swift; pleasant, straight-running stability thanks to a long wheelbase; low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption – fulfilling the global need for environmental compatibility.
Engines and transmission systems
The new SX4's powertrain technologies ensure environmental compatibility while delivering all the performance needed in a C-segment crossover.
Engines
The engine options are 1.6-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel.
• 1.6-litre petrol engine
The 1.6-litre petrol engine is based on the current M16A. Lower friction and lower weight in the engine and related parts heighten fuel economy without detracting from the high power and torque of the M16A.
• 1.6-litre diesel engine
Lightness and low friction help to give the 1.6-litre diesel engine superior fuel economy. A variable-geometry turbocharger ensures plenty of torque from the low end of the rev range, so the driver can enjoy powerful, perfect-torque performance at all times. A newly designed sound-insulating engine cover increases passenger comfort by suppressing the vibration and noise that characterise diesel engines.
Transmission systems
Transmission systems designed for the new SX4 help to improve performance and fuel economy and ensure the type of easy, sporty gear shifting which makes driving so enjoyable.
• Manual transmission
A five-speed manual transmission is available with the 1.6-litre petrol engine. Optimised gear ratios boost performance and fuel economy. And heightened rigidity in the transmission case suppresses noise and vibration to make driving more relaxing. A sixspeed manual transmission is mated to the 1.6-litre diesel engine. Optimised gear ratios increase fuel economy.
• Automatic transmission
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill-climbing performance and fuel economy. A straight shift gate provides ease of use. Plus, a sevenspeed manual mode allows the driver to shift up and down using paddles without letting go of the steering wheel.
Environmental performance
Suzuki developed the new SX4 to have remarkably low CO2 emissions for a C-segment crossover. An Engine Auto Start Stop (EASS) system further increases fuel economy, limits exhaust emissions, and makes driving more pleasurable by limiting noise and vibration.
CO2 emissions
The CO2 emissions target for the new SX4 petrol models are 125g/km* with two-wheel drive (2WD) manual transmission; 125g/km with 2WD CVT; 136g/km* with 4WD manual transmission; and 136g/km with 4WD CVT. The CO2 emissions for the diesel models are 110g/km* with 2WD manual transmission and 115g/km* with 4WD manual transmission.
These figures will be among the lowest in the segment.
*with the EASS system
Note: CO2 emissions are pre-homologation figures.
Maximum output and maximum torque
New ALLGRIP 4WD technology
ALLGRIP is Suzuki's new-generation 4WD, created by evolving the company's renowned 4WD technologies to provide driving enjoyment and peace of mind in diverse conditions while promoting economy and limiting the strain which 4WD cars place on the environment. The four-mode 4WD system in the new SX4 embodies ALLGRIP technology.
Four-mode 4WD system
The 4WD system has four driver-selectable modes – auto, sport, snow, and lock – to enable optimal control according to road and driving conditions. The driver selects the modes using a simple push-and-turn dial on the centre console.
• AUTO
The AUTO mode prioritises fuel economy in typical driving conditions. The system uses 2WD by default. It switches to 4WD if it detects wheelspin.
• SPORT
The SPORT mode is optimal for twisty roads. The system makes maximum use of 4WD in response to accelerator inputs. At low- and mid-range engine speeds, the system alters the accelerator/torque characteristics to optimise engine response and cornering performance.
• SNOW
The SNOW mode is optimal for snowy, unpaved and other slippery surfaces. The system uses 4WD by default. It optimises 4WD control in accordance with the steering and accelerator inputs in order to enhance traction and stability on low-friction surfaces.
• LOCK
The LOCK mode is designed for extricating the car from snow, mud or sand. The system distributes high torque to the rear wheels continually.
Suspension and brakes
Suzuki models, such as the Swift, incorporate chassis technologies fine-tuned for European roads. Suzuki has improved these technologies further for the new SX4 to give drivers greater enjoyment and greater peace of mind.
Suspension
The front wheels have a MacPherson-strut suspension system. A lighter, more rigid suspension frame helps ensure superior handling stability. The results of numerous tests on European roads are reflected in a superb combination of handling stability and driving comfort. Plus, increased rigidity in the mountings for the front struts and for the lower arms enhances handling and suppresses noise and vibration.
Brakes
Ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear ensure plenty of stopping power. Newly specified material for the pistons keeps down weight and improves the braking "feel".
Safety
• Light but impact-absorbing body and various safety features designed for five-star Euro NCAP rating*
The new SX4 gives both drivers and passengers peace of mind in everyday motoring by means of its superior stability and comprehensive active and passive safety facilities. It also incorporates a range of standard safety features which protect pedestrians.
*) Based on Suzuki's evaluations
Light, impact-absorbing TECT body
The body features Suzuki's Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept for occupantprotecting impact absorption and low weight. Extensive use of high-tensile steel for key parts helps to keep the body light and enhances the vehicle's crashworthiness substantially.
Safety equipments
The active safety equipment includes a speed limiter, which prevents the car from exceeding a driver-set speed; an ESP®*), which promotes stability; and a TPMS, which helps the user keep the tyres correctly inflated. Passive safety equipment includes seven airbags, which offer protection in the event of frontal, lateral or rear impact; seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters; and a mechanism which limits backward movement of the brake pedal. In addition, bonnet shape and new structures for the cowl top, wipers and bumpers provide impact absorption which lessens the degree of harm if the car comes into contact with a pedestrian.
*Note: ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler AG
Comfort and convenience
• An interior environment designed for comfort on long journeys
• One of the largest luggage capacities in its class (430 litres)
• A panoramic sunroof with one of the largest opening areas in its class and world-first* double sliding glass panels
A spacious, airy cabin and a generously sized luggage area ensure convenience and comfort for the whole family during day-to-day commutes and extended weekend trips.
Cabin and luggage area
4,300mm overall length and a 2,600mm wheelbase allow plenty of cabin space; the distance between front and rear occupants is 814mm. The front seatbacks are shaped to give rear passengers plenty of knee clearance. Even long journeys are relaxing. And even with the rear seat in an upright position, the new SX4 is a class leader in terms of luggage capacity (430 litres). The rear seat and a luggage board can be repositioned to accommodate different kinds of luggage, making the new SX4 ideal for families.
Panoramic sunroof
The panoramic sunroof is a world first*, consisting of two sliding glass panels (one in front of the other). The sunroof extends over the front and rear seats, making the cabin more relaxing for all occupants. When the sunroof is closed, the glass panels have a combined length of 1,000mm. When the sunroof is open, the opening has a length of 560mm (one of the largest in this segment), giving occupants an invigorating open-roof experience.
*based on Suzuki research, February 2013
Key dimensions
|
New SX4
|
Current SX4
|
Overall length
|
4,300mm
|
4,135mm
|
Overall width
|
1,765mm
|
1,755mm
|
Overall height
|
1,575mm (16" wheels)
1,570mm (17" wheels)
|
1,565mm
|
Wheelbase
|
2,600mm
|
2,500mm
|
Treads
|
Front 1,535mm
|
Front 1,500mm
|
|
Rear 1,505mm
|
Rear 1,495mm
|
Luggage capacity (VDA)
|
430L
|
270L
|
Tyre size
|
205/60R16
205/50R17
|
205/60R16
|
To view the new SX4 video go to: http://www.youtube.com/user/GlobalSuzukiChannel/
2013 Geneva Motor Show special website::http://www.globalsuzuki.com/geneva2013/