SUZUKI has significantly upped its challenge in the burgeoning crossover market with its SX4 S-Cross model.

It had to in order to have a fighting chance of competing in the rapidly expanding sector which offers such a vast choice.

The S-Cross is chasing the runaway success of the Nissan Qashqai and so its move from smaller to bigger was inevitable.

Upsizing from its predecessor, the SX4, the S-Cross has much-needed space and practicality with which to take on the A-listers in this part of the SUV crossover arena - though it still has some way to go to match kerb appeal.

What is in the Suzuki's favour is its very competitive price tag - at least £2,000 less than main rivals - almost as much space, a decent-command outlook and very respectable running costs. 

Add the optional on-demand capability of Suzuki's AllGrip four-mode, four-wheel drive system - as here on the 1.6-litre petrol version - and it becomes an interesting and worthy proposition.

The all-new S-Cross doesn't match the bling and glamour of close competitors but it looks a decent enough modern motor with on-tap four-corner grip which provides extra assurance on icy, dicey roads and decent 4x4 ability battling on muddy or saturated grass tracks.

This petrol-driven S-Cross came with CVT automatic transmission, so you can guess it's no sprinter, with a dart from 0-62mph taking 13.5 seconds.

However, resort to the steering wheel gear paddles and be prepared to work it hard and you can achieve a reasonable response - but with the consequent extra noise.

Under normal driving and cruise conditions, the engine is much more subdued and not too much wind or road noise seeps into the cabin. Even with a medium-tallish architecture, the 1.6-litre S-Cross Allgrip handled quite sensibly with surprisingly little roll.

It felt solid and stable and the steering, though light and breezy, can weight up nicely at speed and when put through its paces in bends.

Driving the S-Cross is an easy, relatively relaxing and straightforward affair - totally uncomplicated with simple dash and control layout easily accessible.

Even the AllGrip system responds to the touch of a button for Sport, Snow or Lock - or can be left in Auto.

Interior space is impressive for five occupants, though taller ones in the rear might have to compromise - especially if the optional, panoramic glass roof (standard here on the top spec SZ5) is added, impinging on critical headroom. Equally impressive is the roomy boot with only a slight load lip.

Built in Hungary alongside the popular Suzuki Swift, build quality, fit and finish is reassuringly solid - though the plastic (although soft touch) dulls the interior down a little. It could have benefited from a little more invention and creativity.

Even in this petrol engined S-Cross (the only other engine is a 1.6-litre diesel) with 4x4 and automatic transmission it still ekes out a decent average fuel return at just under 50mpg, while CO2 emissions register at 130g/km.

The S-Cross - in this form - offers the best of both worlds. It can easily take its  bonus of going rural and flexing its 4x4 muscles.

The car with CVT automatic transmission, 4x4 and its top-of-the-range SZ5 trim and luscious metallic paintwork, cost £22,879.

The basic, front-wheel drive petrol model starts at £14,999 (SZ3 trim), with the diesel engine adding a £2,000 premium.

Even at entry level trim the S-Cross is well equipped featuring items such as central locking, cruise control, air con and USB connectivity.