Suzuki hasn't sold passenger cars in America since 2012. Outside of the US, however, the Japanese automaker has revealed pricing and specification details for the all-new Across SUV. If it looks familiar, that's because it's based on the Toyota RAV4 as part of a partnership between the two Japanese automakers.
While the Across is a rebadged RAV4, the new SUV sports a unique front end with a different grille and redesigned LED headlights and daytime running lights to set it apart. Premium 19-inch alloy wheels are fitted as standard finished in black gloss. Six exterior colors are available: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Sensual Red Mica, Grey Metallic and Dark Blue Mica.
Inside, the interior looks identical to the RAV4 apart from the redesigned steering wheel. A nine-inch touchscreen is offered as standard, while the 17.3 cu.ft luggage compartment offers plenty of storage space. At launch, the Across will only be available in a high-spec trim that includes leather seats, heated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, dual zone air conditioning, and an automatic tailgate.
Powering the new Suzuki Across is the same electrified powertrain you get in the same Toyota RAV4 Prime featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors, with a 180-hp motor on the front axle and a 54-hp motor at the rear. Combined, this setup produces 302 hp to match the RAV4 Prime, making it the most powerful Suzuki on the market by a huge margin.
Power is sent to a "E-Four electronic 4x4 system" that alter the front and rear torque bias to increase stability in hazardous road conditions when required. 0-62 mph takes six seconds before the electrified SUV reaches a top speed of 112 mph. Standard safety tech include a pre-collision and lane-keeping assists, along with radar-guided cruise control.
In the UK, sales of the new Suzuki Across will start next month but will be "very limited" during the first year of sale. Pricing starts at £45,599 ($59,711), making it more expensive than the real RAV4 Prime ($38,100). It will be followed by Suzuki's second collaborative new model, the Swace, which is based on the Corolla Touring Hybrid.