• One engine – a plug-in hybrid with 306hp
• CVT automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive are standard
• 46-mile electric range and 0–62mph in six seconds

Plug-in hybrid engine

The combination of a 2.5-litre petrol engine plus twin electric motors provides up to 306hp. Most of the time the car’s powered by the motors, and the engine just acts as a generator when required, although it can contribute to driving the front wheels as well.

At the rear of the car there’s a generous 18.1kWh battery pack, offering an official electric range of 46 miles and a top electrical speed of 84mph, meaning you can do shorter motorway commutes without using a drop of fuel.

Because the Suzuki Across uses its electric motors most of the time, the accelerator yields instant, smooth response and silent progress. A CVT automatic connects the engine to the drivetrain, which means there aren’t any conventional gears to step through, either.

For a long time, CVT-equipped vehicles would typically end up with their engine howling away as you built up speed, the transmission allowing the engine to rev harder, sooner, in an effort to boost efficiency. But in the Across, the abundant electric power means it only sounded strained when we were really pushing it – most of the time we found ourselves able to accelerate and overtake with the engine rarely rising above idle speed.

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Once the speed limit signs say 40 or lower, the Suzuki Across can swap from a six-seconds to 62mph sporty SUV to a quiet, refined and comfortable family car with minimal emissions.

Most 40mph urban routes allow the engine and brakes to recover enough charge to do the last mile in pure EV mode even if you’ve depleted the battery beforehand. Light steering, predictable brakes and good visibility complement the generous electric power on offer for a calm city experience.

What’s it like to drive?

• A bigger SUV that handles very well
• Trail mode for poor roads
• 1,500kg towing capacity

Suzuki hasn’t tuned the suspension individually for the Across – it’s the same as the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid – but Toyota has made a few changes that ensure the more powerful car has handling that matches the performance for the most part.

It rides smoothly, with an enhanced feeling of comfort thanks to the sound insulation, and though it leans a fair bit into corners, it never feels overly wallowy.

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Rather than the tied-down aggression of most SUVs with over 300hp to play with, the Across gives enough control and predictable body movement to have a little fun before the electronic safety systems kick in, without sacrificing the refinement and comfort you’ll want in towns.

It’s a successful balance that we think will satisfy most drivers and families. But if you want a more engaging SUV, you’ll be happier with a Ford Kuga or SEAT Ateca. Navigating through towns at low speeds isn’t so much a problem (thanks to good visibility and light steering). But we would always notice its height and weight if we had to turn quickly on faster roads.