If you are looking for a sensible and capable compact SUV, Suzuki has two strong options that often fly under the radar: the Suzuki S-Cross and the Suzuki Vitara. While they share similar powertrains and a focus on value, they cater to slightly different needs.
The S-Cross is a practical, common-sense family car that prioritises space and ease of use. The Vitara, on the other hand, offers a slightly more stylish package with a fun driving experience, making it a popular choice in a crowded market. Both offer the option of four-wheel drive, but which of these Suzuki siblings is the right choice for you?
Suzuki S-Cross vs Suzuki Vitara
Practicality
Suzuki S-Cross practicality score: 4/5
Suzuki Vitara practicality score: 4/5
Both of these SUVs offer a solid amount of space, but the S-Cross takes the lead for outright load-lugging. It features a 430-litre boot with a neat, square shape and a removable floor, making it easy to slide larger items in. Passenger space is generally good, though headroom can be snug in models with a sunroof, and the basic interior plastics feel a bit utilitarian.
The Vitara is slightly smaller, offering a 362-litre boot in mild hybrid form, which drops to 289 litres if you choose the full hybrid. Legroom is decent for adults in the back, but the narrow cabin means it is better suited to carrying two rear passengers rather than three. Like the S-Cross, the Vitara features some disappointing interior plastics that lack the premium feel of some rivals.
Driving Impressions
Suzuki S-Cross driving score: 3/5
Suzuki Vitara driving score: 4/5
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Vitara has the edge. It stays fairly upright in corners and offers plenty of grip, giving it an agile and alert feel on the road. The firm suspension means the ride can occasionally feel jittery over broken surfaces, but it remains a capable performer. The 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine is the pick of the bunch for both performance and refinement.
The S-Cross is incredibly easy to drive, with light steering and a slick gearshift that make town driving a breeze. However, it falls short on refinement. The ride can be fidgety, and a noticeable lack of soundproofing means wind and road noise become prominent at higher speeds. As with the Vitara, the 1.4-litre turbo engine is the best choice, offering a relaxed cruising experience and plenty of mid-range power.
Technology and Equipment
Suzuki S-Cross technology and equipment score: 4/5
Suzuki Vitara technology and equipment score: 4/5
Suzuki is known for providing plenty of standard equipment, and both cars score well here. The S-Cross features a dashboard with clearly marked physical buttons that are easy to use on the move. However, the touchscreen infotainment system on higher-spec models has small graphics and can be confusing to navigate.
The Vitara is similarly well-equipped. The mid-range SZ-T trim is the sweet spot, coming with alloy wheels, air-conditioning, and a touchscreen system with satnav and DAB radio. Unfortunately, the Vitara's touchscreen also feels a bit old-fashioned, with dated graphics and slow responses. Despite this, both cars offer all the essential technology you need for daily driving.
Running Costs
Suzuki S-Cross running costs score: 3/5
Suzuki Vitara running costs score: 3/5
Running costs for both cars are reasonable, though you will need to choose your engine carefully. The 1.4-litre turbo in the S-Cross can return around 50mpg if driven sensibly, while the mild hybrid models offer similar real-world figures. Servicing is affordable, and Suzuki dealers often provide fixed-price packages for older cars.
The Vitara offers similar fuel economy, with the 1.4-litre turbo returning around 40mpg and the 1.0-litre option pushing closer to 45mpg. If you opt for an automatic gearbox or four-wheel drive in either car, expect your fuel economy to take a noticeable hit. It is also worth noting that diesel Vitaras require a costly timing belt change every five years or 60,000 miles, whereas the petrol engines use a maintenance-free timing chain.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
|
Suzuki S-Cross |
Suzuki Vitara |
| CarGurus expert rating |
4 out of 5 |
4 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating |
4.4 out of 5 |
5.0 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* |
37.9% |
47.2% |
| Overall CarGurus rating |
4.2 out of 5 |
4.4 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Suzuki S-Cross Overall CarGurus rating: 4.2/5
Suzuki Vitara Overall CarGurus rating: 4.4/5
Choosing between the Suzuki S-Cross and the Suzuki Vitara comes down to what you value most in a compact SUV. The S-Cross is a highly practical, common-sense choice with a larger boot and a relaxed driving demeanour, making it a great companion for family life.
However, based on our CarGurus Buyer Insights, the Suzuki Vitara is the winner. It boasts a perfect user rating and a significantly higher percentage of great deals on our platform. Its sharper driving dynamics, smart looks, and agile handling make it a more enjoyable car to own and drive. While the interior plastics and infotainment could be better in both models, the Vitara's blend of value, equipment, and reliability make it a superb all-rounder that takes the victory in this comparison.
Suzuki S-Cross Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Plenty of space for a small car |
Basic standard of finish |
| Four-wheel-drive models will suit country-dwellers |
Lots of wind and road noise at speed |
| Easy to drive |
Early 1.6 petrol cars are quite slow |
Suzuki Vitara Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Good to drive, and comfortable too |
Disappointing interior quality |
| Lively 1.4-litre engine |
1.0-litre model is quite slow |
| Lots of space inside |
Vague steering |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.
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