Toyota | On the road

Suzuki S-Cross hybrid Ultra

By Bill McCarthy

In the crowded and highly competitive world of compact SUVs, the Suzuki S-Cross has always carved out a sensible space. It has a loyal customer base who are confident in the product.

It may not feature some of the bells and whistles and luxurious touches of rivals, but this latest version, with a series of upgrades, offers very great value for money in a tight market.

Having said that, some of the features, especially on the range topping Ultra, are real high end, like the full sliding sunroof and clever 360-degree camera.

A major update for 2026

With the comprehensive 2026 model year update, the S Cross is better looking, has an improved interior, and efficient hybrid engine technology, including a 48V mild hybrid option with manual transmission driven here, and a new full hybrid version.

Smart new design

Both look good and now feature a sleek yet, at the same time, muscular design for a strong road presence. It is arguably Suzuki’s best-looking vehicle with a raised bonnet line, a piano black front grille, and new, sharp three-LED position headlamps.

The back end features larger combination lamps and the look is completed by roof rails and an integrated rear spoiler. There are two models: Motion and the Ultra driven here.

Hi tech well well-equipped cabin

The cabin centrepiece is a new nine-inch infotainment display that features controls, infotainment, smartphone connectivity and a three-dimensional navigation map.

It also a 4.2-inch display that shows a range of information including engine output and torque data, fuel consumption, average speed, acceleration and brake operation as well as driving G-force tracking.

Thethe system also allows the driver to use certain smartphone applications with MirrorLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connection.

The interior is not only practical but also packed with equipment, including dual-zone automatic air conditioning, heated front seats, keyless entry and start, and front and rear parking sensors.

This Ultra grade adds, which adds polished alloy wheels, leather upholstery and a large panoramic sunroof consisting of two individually sliding glass panels which extends over the front and rear seats.

Standout features

Another standout feature on the Ultra is the 360-view camera, which is fitted as standard equipment and is equipped with four cameras linked to the central display to provide a clear all-round view to the driver. Functions include a 3D opening view which enables the driver to check surroundings before moving off and a birds-eye view which makes parking this SUV an absolute doddle.

Efficient hybrid pwertrain

This model features the 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine uses a belt-driven motor-generator. It assists the petrol engine for a torque boost during acceleration, recovers energy during braking and deceleration to charge the 48V battery. It enables smooth engine stop/start and coasting reduces engine load and fuel consumption.

New auto transmission

This model featured the slick shifting, six-speed manual gearbox, but new for the S Cross is the six-speed fully automatic transmission, available for both Motion and Ultra grades. The transmission also includes paddle shifters for a more engaging drive.

Impressive economy

Economy is good on this model, with more than 50mpg delivered over an extended drive. The official combined mpg for the two-wheel-drive manual model is 49.7mpg, making the performance of this four-wheel-drive model all the more impressive.

Confident four-wheel-drive

This Ultra grade comes with Suzuki’s ALLGRIP ‘Select’ four-wheel-drive system as standard. This system delivers surefooted performance. There are four driver-selectable modes – Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.

New is the feed-forward function, which sends torque to the rear wheels before slippage occurs, ensuring stability rather than simply reacting to a loss of grip.

The pin-sharp steering keeps the car firmly in the direction you point it, and the grip is huge, providing a stress-free drive.

Comprehensive safety

The safety features are comprehensive, with both active and passive equipment standard across the range.

These include seven airbags and advanced driver-assistance systems like Dual Sensor Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Verdict

Now even smarter looking, the S-Cross stands out as a stylish, well-equipped, and versatile compact SUV, offering good value and a strong set of features.s. With efficient hybrid options, standard all-wheel drive on the Ultra grade, and competitive pricing, it makes a sensible choice in its segment.

Factfile

Suzuki S-Cross 1.4 Hybrid Ultra
Price: £27,495
Mechanical: Combined 109PS 1,373cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all wheels via six speed manual transmission
Max speed: 111mph
0-62mph: 12.2 seconds
Combined mpg: 49.5 (WLTP)
CO2 emissions: 131g/km
BIK rating: 32%
Insurance group: 16
Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Toyota Prius PHEV Excel

By Bill McCarthy

The Prius was a game-changer when it was introduced in the 1990s. As the first mass-p roduced full hybrid car, it took the world by storm and sparked a global rush toward electrification.

Its combination of a petrol engine and electric motor attracted eco-conscious consumers, including a host of Hollywood celebrities, which greatly increased its visibility.

Originally, its quirky design was dictated by the need to accommodate the battery, but it has since evolved – transforming from an ugly duckling into a strikingly attractive swan. Now in its fifth generation, the Prius signature wedge shape remains, but it is sleeker, with a lower roof and an extended wheelbase.

The curved bonnet, raked windscreen, classy slim LED lights, concealed rear door handles, and sloping silhouette all contribute to a modern, sporty image that is a match for anything in its class. In fact, when covered in branding, recognising this model as a Prius might have proved a challenge.

This particular Excel model celebrates Toyota’s sporting arm, Gazoo Racing. Inspired by success at the Le Mans 24-hour race, it highlights GR’s development of racing hybrid technology since 2012 and was used as a promotional tool at the iconic French event this year.

Much improved interior

Stepping inside, the Prius boasts a classy, driver-focused cabin that cleverly blends traditional controls with advanced technology. While the design is more functional than cutting-edge, it’s dominated by a crisp 12-inch infotainment screen.

This system manages key features like cloud-based navigation and smartphone connectivity, all accessible via the intuitive ‘Hey Toyota’ voice control.

A seven-inch digital driver’s display is positioned directly in the line of sight to minimise distraction. The black-themed interior features colour-coordinated accents, smart switches, and ambient LED lighting for a premium feel.

Enhanced practicality

Practicality is a key strength in this latest model. You’ll find more usable storage throughout, including a seven-litre glovebox and a rear-opening centre console. Importantly, luggage capacity has increased to 284 litres (up from 251 litres), thanks to the battery being relocated under the rear seat.

Performance and economy

Once the battery depletes, the petrol engine seamlessly takes over. The system also recaptures energy through regenerative braking to charge the battery on the move. For business users, the low emissions translate into a very low Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate.

Improved ride and handling

Driving dynamics have been significantly improved. By placing the battery under the rear seat and positioning the fuel tank lower, Toyota has achieved a lower centre of gravity. This results in a more stable and agile ride.

MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension further enhances handling and ride comfort. The cabin remains quiet and comfortable, with minimal wind and road noise, making it a practical and pleasant family car.

Comprehensive safety equipment

This car comes equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard. This suite includes a raft of airbags and::

A pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
Lane Departure Alert
Radar Cruise Control
Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Electronic Stability Control and a Reversing Camera

Prices start at £39,995 for the entry model, with this range topping Excel starting from £37,895.

Verdict

The continued success of the improved Prius after over 25 years is a testament to its enduring quality. It now delivers a mix of classy styling, rapid performance, and low-running costs. With its low emissions and decent, if not class leading,electric-only range, it remains a formidable contender in the competitive UK market.

Factfile

Toyota Prius PHEV Excel

Price: £39,995
Mechanical: 220bhp combined 1,987 litre petrol engine and electric motor driving all from wheels via single speed automatic transmission
Max Speed: 110mph
0-62mph: 6.8 seconds
Economy: 47.6mpg WLTP (403, constant full charge)
Insurance Group: 31A
C02 emissions: 12g/km
Bik rating: 9%
Warranty: 3yrs/62,000 miles

On the road

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Suzuki’s compact SUV worth considering