Brother of the RAV4: Suzuki updates hybrid SUV with a focus on technology and design for the European market By Carolina Costa
3 min read
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The European division of Suzuki confirmed the launch of the latest update of the Across, a sports utility vehicle that shares the platform with the Toyota RAV4. The model arrives at dealerships with specific aesthetic modifications and a renewed technological package, seeking greater visual differentiation in relation to the original project and reinforcing the brand’s electrification strategy on the continent.
The vehicle takes on the role of top of the line in the manufacturer’s portfolio, combining energy efficiency with a robust package of standard equipment. The renewal is seen as an essential move to meet the stringent Europa emissions standards, allowing the company to offset the carbon footprint of other models in the fleet through plug-in hybrid technology consolidated by the Japanese industrial partnership.
New design and exterior finishes
The visual changes are concentrated at the front, where the designers applied a new front grille with an exclusive pattern and redesigned bumpers. The objective is to give the SUV its own identity, aesthetically distancing it from its counterpart in the Toyota and delivering a more aggressive and modern appearance on the streets.
On the sides, the highlight is the 19-inch light alloy wheels finished in glossy black, which reinforce the car’s sophisticated proposal. The color palette was kept sober, offering options in white, black, gray and metallic red, meeting the profile of the local consumer who prioritizes discreet elegance.
Technological evolution in the cabin
The utility vehicle’s interior has undergone a significant revision to remain competitive against newer rivals. The dashboard now houses a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, configurable to display driving and power flow data, replacing the previous analogue dials.
In the center of the console, a new 12.9-inch infotainment screen takes over the media and navigation functions. The updated interface allowed for the reduction of physical buttons, cleaning up the look of the panel, while the finish maintains soft-touch materials and USB-C ports strategically distributed for all occupants.
Power and mechanical efficiency
Under the hood, the model preserves the high-performance mechanical package, combining a 2.5 gasoline engine with two electric propellants. Essa configuration generates a combined power of 306 horsepower, ensuring vigorous acceleration and safe overtaking, with 0 to 100 km/h being achieved in just 6.1 seconds.
The approximately 20 kWh lithium-ion battery powers the plug-in hybrid system, providing sufficient electric range for most daily urban commutes. The E-Four all-wheel drive system automatically manages the distribution of force between the axles, optimizing grip in different driving conditions.
Driving and safety assistants
Safety has been enhanced with the inclusion of an updated driving assistance package, using sensors and cameras for real-time monitoring. The features aim to reduce the risk of accidents and increase comfort on long journeys.
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function.
- Lane keeping system with active correction.
- Blind spot and rear cross traffic monitoring.
- Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
The market positioning of the new SUV seeks to face direct competitors such as the Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Outlander. The brand’s strategy relies on immediate availability and the mechanical reliability inherited from the Toyota to attract customers looking for a complete and efficient family vehicle.
