Suzuki S-Cross
Full hybrid combination of the K15B and an electric assist motor, paired with an automated manual gearbox (AGS). The AGS is the central weak point: gear-change judder and clutch shudder are inherent to the system. Noticeably smoother behaviour with moderate driving and use of the paddle shifters.
Gentle hybrid crossover for daily life
The full hybrid S-Cross rides quietly and efficiently, but the CVT transmission robs it of dynamic sharpness. Ideal for commuters and city driving, not intended for corner hunters.
Engine Weaknesses 3
The automated manual transmission tends to judder on gear changes and clutch slip especially in the cold. Suzuki has issued technical service bulletins and in some cases recommends replacing the flywheel and clutch assembly with improved versions.
Symptoms: Judder on pull-away below 5 °C, hesitation on gear changes, noticeable body pitch on shifting
The AGS exhibits pronounced shift delays in city traffic by design. The automatic control hesitates between engaged and disengaged clutch, causing noticeable power interruptions. Significantly improved in Sport mode or with manual paddle shifters.
Symptoms: Noticeable torque interruption during gear changes, 'lumpy' acceleration in city traffic
High-voltage assist from the hybrid system is significantly reduced at low temperatures. The vehicle behaves like a weaker car with no electric assist during this phase. Function normalises once operating temperature is reached.
Symptoms: Missing electric assist in cold weather, higher fuel consumption in winter, slow system engagement after cold start
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
The brake pedal on the S-Cross II feels soft and spongy, making precise modulation difficult. Multiple long-term tests and first-drive reports confirm this as a characteristic of the model.
The automated 6-speed gearbox (AGS) on the S-Cross II suddenly downshifts at constant motorway speeds and revs the engine hard. Test drivers compare the behaviour to old Smart models.
The front radar sensor for adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking can fail without warning during driving — sometimes after as little as 15–30 minutes. Suzuki has been unable to identify the root cause.
The poorly accessible rotary-push controller behind the steering wheel makes operating the on-board computer dangerously fiddly while driving. CarPlay and Android Auto occasionally drop the connection.
From October 2023 onwards, users report recurring lane-keeping assist warning messages when engaging reverse, which only clear after switching off the engine. A software update from the dealer is required.
The driver's side window can rattle in its channel. Interior trim panels produce rattling noises on rough roads. The mild hybrid model was rated as acoustically unrefined by long-term test drivers.