Suzuki has revealed the new Across, an SUV based on the Toyota RAV4 and packing plug-in hybrid power.
It’s the first model to emerge from the strategic alliance, and gives an indication as to how the two firms will seek to differentiate their own versions of shared models. The Across bears a strong resemblance to the RAV4, but is set apart by an all-new front end featuring Suzuki’s large trademark grille.
The differences between the two cars’ cabins are more subtle, with the Across featuring a largely identical interior layout save for the addition of a new steering wheel. The RAV4’s 9.0-inch touchscreen display features as standard, and offers smartphone mirroring functionality.
The SUV’s electrified powertrain is carried over wholesale from the new RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, and comprises a 129kW 2.5-litre petrol four-cylinder mated to a pair of electric motors – one with 134kW on the front axle and another with 40kW at the rear – for a top speed of 180km/h.
Combined power output is unconfirmed, but in the RAV4 this system produces 225kW, making it the most powerful RAV4 yet, and Toyota’s quickest alternatively fuelled model. The Across emits 22g/km of CO2 on the WLTP combined cycle, compared to the RAV4 PHEV’s 29g/km, so it’s likely to use a down-tuned variant of the powertrain.
Four driving modes feature: EV mode for pure-electric driving, Auto EV/HV and HV mode, which allows the petrol motor to provide occasional power boosts, and battery charger mode which uses the petrol motor exclusively.
The SUV’s 18.1kWh battery allows it to travel 74 kilometres on electric power alone, and it’s expected to be able to reach speeds of up to 135km/h in this mode, like the RAV4.
An electronic four-wheel drive system, called E-Four, features as standard, and can split torque between the two axles in ratios ranging in bias from 100:00 to 20:80. Suzuki says this provides “enhanced stability during take-off on slippery surfaces such as snow covered roads, and confident handling when cornering on varying road surfaces”.
The Across is also equipped with a Trail Mode function that maximises grip on slippery surfaces by diverting power away from wheels that are losing grip towards wheels that have good traction.
Safety features include a pre-collision system, lane-keep assist, road sign assist, dynamic cruise control and a blind spot monitor. Suzuki’s eCall system is fitted, as well, automatically alerting the emergency services in the event of an accident.
Additional features detailed so far include standard-fitment LED headlights and daytime-running lights and 19in two-tone alloy wheels. When the Across goes on sale in Europe in October this year, it will be available in six colours: white, silver, black, red, grey and blue. Prices are yet to be confirmed for either model.
Alongside the Across, Suzuki will soon sell its own version of Toyota’s Corolla hatchback. Announcing the partnership last year, the two firms said it would combine “Toyota’s strength in electrification technologies and Suzuki’s strength in technologies for compact vehicles”.
Though the Toyota RAV4 is available in Australia and Suzuki’s sells its current SUV lineup here, the plug-in version of either the RAV4 or this Across remains only on a wishlist for local shores.
Felix Page