By Lethabo Temogo
Setting the Tone in Cape Town
There is something about arriving in Cape Town that makes every moment feel cinematic. Perhaps it is the calmness of the city, or the way the mountains frame the skyline as you step out of Cape Town International Airport. It felt like the perfect introduction to a carefully curated experience, building seamlessly towards an exciting reveal.
After landing, a brief stop at Vida e Caffè brought us together with the Suzuki team, who welcomed us warmly and guided us through the next phase of the journey. We were then escorted to a shuttle that carried us through the city centre, where urban energy meets a dramatic mountainous backdrop.
Our journey concluded at the Vineyard Hotel, a property that exudes understated luxury. With its lush surroundings, clean aesthetic and serene atmosphere, it offered the perfect setting to prepare for what lay ahead.
An Artistic Reveal
The launch took place at the Norval Foundation, an intimate space where art and modern architecture come together to inspire. Surrounded by carefully curated works, the setting immediately elevated the experience.
Guests were welcomed with a thoughtfully curated three-course meal inspired by Cape Town’s coastline. It offered not just a sense of place, but a true taste of the Cape. The evening was hosted by South African comedian and culinary personality Chris Forrest, whose presence brought a light yet engaging energy to the room.
At the centre of it all stood the all-new Suzuki Across, draped beneath a black cover, building anticipation for the moment of reveal. Then, in a carefully choreographed display of light and sound, the unveiling began. LED visuals cut through the space, drawing all attention to the stage as the Across was revealed.
It was a moment that sparked genuine excitement, with audible reactions and conversations rippling across the room.
First Impressions
The Suzuki Across presents itself as something slightly different. Not just another SUV, but what Suzuki refers to as a utility vehicle, a subtle shift in identity that reflects its purpose. As a hybrid SUV, it blends efficiency with practicality, boasting a claimed fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km. This makes it well suited to both city commutes and longer journeys.
Visually, the Across carries a clean and cohesive design. The front end flows seamlessly, complemented by sharp LED headlamps that add a modern edge. Among the expanded range of colour options, one stood out in particular, a bold metallic red that gives the vehicle real presence.
Step inside, and the cabin immediately impresses. A 10.2-inch infotainment system takes centre stage, while features such as wireless charging and climate control add a layer of everyday convenience. Space is generous, with both the cabin and boot designed to balance comfort and practicality, reinforcing the vehicle’s versatility.
On the Road
Driving through Cape Town’s mountainous routes, particularly along Chapman’s Peak Drive, is where the Across begins to reveal its character. It remains composed through winding roads and elevation changes, offering a reassuring sense of control throughout the drive. Smooth gear transitions, comfortable ride quality and stability through corners make for a confident driving experience.
The hybrid system operates quietly, prioritising efficiency over outright aggression. It is a vehicle that feels composed rather than overtly sporty, making it well suited to relaxed cruising and everyday driving.
The sound system enhances the experience, delivering rich audio quality that complements the journey. Overall, the Across leans into practicality, a vehicle designed for daily use as much as it is for travel.
Verdict
The Suzuki Across is a considered addition to the SUV segment. It may not lead in outright performance, but it delivers balance where it matters most. It is practical, modern, efficient and easy to drive.
Pricing starts at R349 900 for the 1.5 GL manual, with the 1.5 GL Automatic at R372 900 and the range-topping 1.5 GLX Automatic at R464 900. All models include a 5- year/200,000 km warranty, positioning the Across as a competitive and accessible option within the hybrid SUV segment.
For those seeking a versatile everyday vehicle with a refined edge, the Across makes a compelling case.
