IT'S not just the Chinese motor brands that are accelerating flat out in UK.

That well- established Japanese independent, Suzuki, is also surging forward at record speed.

With sales for the first part of the year up by more than 40 per cent, the firm, whose UK base is in Milton Keynes, is among Britain's front-runners, showing a greater percentage increase than all its European rivals.

Though the recently released all-electric eVitara is stealing the limelight, the established S-Cross Hybrid is proving itself a stalwart for the many faithful customers are don't yet feel ready to plug into a full-cream BEV.

Of the three-strong S-Cross range, we opted for1.4 Ultra Hybrid 2WD which fits neatly in the centre of the line-up and wears a price tag of a shade over £30,000.

Unlike many rivals which have gained girth and weight through their various incarnations, the S-Cross remains as trim and compact as when it was originally launch a decade ago. Sporting a smarter nose and mild hybrid, self-charging electric assistance, it blends reasonable performance alongside good economy at an affordable price.

Designers have made the most of its compact dimensions - though fairly narrow there's ample space for four and even five if those in the rear are good friends. And the boot swallows up a generous 430litres of cargo. Rear seats split and fold 60-40.

Loads of storage space both front and back for water bottles, oddments and the usual family clutter. It has to be said that dark plastic - some of which is not particularly soft or tactile - abounds within the rather old-style cabin. And the doors don't tend to close with that ‘clunk' of quality.

But equipment levels are generous. Alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof, dual zone air con, touchscreen, LED lights, and front and rear parking sensors are all standard items that many manufacturers charge extra for.

Part-leather front seats are soft and very comfortable with height adjustment while the steering wheel also adjusts, so it's easy enough to find a good driving position. Visibility all-round is better than average due to its slim pillars and decent ride height.

The 1.4litre engine revs smoothly if rather vocally and pulls well through the ratios, though a full load of passengers inevitably affects acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission is a bit slow-witted but gear changes are smooth enough.

Sensibly designed to traverse rough roads, smooth out rippled and pot-holed surfaces, the ride is understandably on the soft side. As a result, there's some cornering roll evident when getting a wiggle on through the bends. Nevertheless, the S-Cross clings on well and corners safely and securely.

For those who regularly tackle wilder tracks or tow, there's an all-wheel drive version. For most owners the front-drive model, with a lower price-point and better fuel consumption is more than adequate.

With a usefully low emissions level, economy is of the mile-stretching variety. We regularly nudged the 50mpg mark, with 55mpg possible during gentle running.

Tough and easy-to-live-with, the S-Cross attracts a loyal ownership and represents first class value.

£30,549

1.4-litre, 129bhp petrol hybrid 4 cyl engine driving front wheels via automatic gearbox

121mph

9.5sec

52.3

22

122g/km

30%

10yrs/100k miles (service activated)

4.3