I am sure many people are asking themselves this question: what is the difference between Suzuki SX4 S-Cross vs Suzuki Vitara? Why Suzuki Motor Company would produce such a similar type of vehicle? Find below, where these two cars are similar and where not.
Video comparison: Suzuki SX4 S-Cross vs Suzuki Vitara
Basic info
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross
Manufacturer: Suzuki
Production: 2006 – present (second generation)
Class: Compact crossover SUV
Assembly: China, Hungary, India
Suzuki Vitara
Manufacturer: Suzuki
Production: 1988 – present (fourth generation)
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
Assembly: China, Hungary, Algeria
Exterior dimensions: SX4 vs Vitara
To be honest, Vitara and SX4 S-Cross are not exactly the same size. They are actually from a different crossover subclass. Vitara is namely a subcompact crossover, while SX4 S-Cross is a compact crossover.
Looking strictly at the numbers, SX4 is exactly 4,3 meters long, meaning 12,5 centimeters longer than Vitara. Similarly, longer is the wheelbase, 10 centimeters in favor of SX4.
All the other exterior dimensions are almost the same. If you ask me, the difference in exterior dimensions is too small to justify two different models. Maybe a longer wheelbase will guarantee you more space in the cabin, but is this the reason to make two different models?
Luggage compartment and weight: Suzuki SX4 vs Vitara
Since Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is a little longer, it is almost natural to have a little bigger luggage volume. With seats up, it has 55 liters more volume than Vitara, and with rear seats folded, the cargo volume is 149 liters bigger.
Being a bit smaller, Vitara weights 1075 kilograms, or 15 kilograms less than SX4.
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross vs Suzuki Vitara: what engines do they use?
Vitara and SX4 have similarly powerful engines. There are few deviations with the size of the engine, but nothing noticeable.
Both are offered as gasoline or diesel, and they both have a fairly small range between the weakest and the strongest version. Just about 30 HP.
Which one is faster, SX4 S-Cross or Vitara?
Knowing the dimensions, weight, shape of the car, and engine power, I didn’t expect any difference in top speed or acceleration between Vitara and SX4 S-Cross.
Comparing the actual data on maximum speed and acceleration confirms that. The only difference is the top speed of the slowest Vitara, which is 10 km/h higher than the top speed of the slowest SX4 S-Cross.
Suzuki SX4 vs Vitara safety ratings
Crash test results are quite good for both cars. Both received a 5-star rating. In any case, the data are not directly comparable, as the test was carried out in different years.
SX4 vs Vitara price comparison
Suzuki SX4 S-Cross is a bit more expensive compared to Vitara. It costs 19.790 EUR in Germany (1.800 EUR more than Vitara), and around 17.500 GBP in the UK, meaning Vitara is 1.500 GBP cheaper.
See also: SX4 vs Seat Arona
Conclusion
So, are Suzuki SX4 S-Cross vs Suzuki Vitara competitors? I would say Yes. Based exclusively on technical data of both cars (no, I did not test drive both of them), the difference is much too small to justify two different models under the same badge.
The only noticeable difference is 12 centimeters longer total length and 10 centimeters longer wheelbase in favor of SX4. A bit bigger size also means a little larger boot.
Is this worth 1.800 EUR or 1.500 GBP? Probably. The only question that remains is, do you need that extra size?
Image credit: Suzuki, World Auto Evolution Youtube Channel
thanks for the spec head to head. The looks though are chalk and cheese. the Vitara looking European and the SX4 looking Pacific rim.
The SX4 S cross, has a sleeker curved front, there doesn’t appear to be much divergence in specification. Suzuki, do you want to know which version the public prefer? Match the price for a trial period, & you’ll soon find out.
After having a SX4 1.0 SZT for 3 years I have now changed to the Vitara 1.4 SZT, comparing the two I would say the Vitara has the edge when it comes to driving, it’s punchy, responsive and really good fun to drive..
However, despite them both being the same trim (SZT) that doesn’t mean you get the same toys.. For instance an SX4 in SZT spec will give you Keyless entry and start, it gives you auto lights, LED projector headlamps, Auto day/night rearview mirror, electrically folding door mirrors with turning signal lamps.. none of the above are installed in the Vitara SZT; there really are some significant differences,
However that said..
.. If you like your vehicle to come with bells and whistles go for the SX4 SZT but if you want to put the fun back into driving then go for the Vitara SZT..
I have no regrets..
I’ve had an S-cross SZ5 2017 model for just over a year and although I’ve driven a Vitara I have never owned one. Overall I rate the S-cross as very competent. The road holding and ride are more than acceptable and the running costs are amazingly low. It is very practical and comfortable and has all the bells and whistles one could want. The only thing I find annoying with it is the “radar controlled braking” can be a little too keen to operate particularly when passing inside a stationary vehicle that is turning right. Otherwise I would wholeheartedly recommend it. I cannot understand why the Vitara sells generally for a higher price second hand than an even better spec’d S-cross as the S-cross has so much more going for it.