The new Suzuki Across is set launch towards the top of the Japanese brand’s line-up in SA. Here’s what to expect, including an early look at some specification highlights…
- New Suzuki Across set to be launched in March
- GL & GLX grades already confirmed for Mzansi
- GLX to boast “Infinity by Harman” sound system
The new Suzuki Across is scheduled to launch in South Africa towards the middle of March 2026, billed as the brand’s “most advanced” crossover yet. With the Across set to launch towards the top of Suzuki Auto SA’s line-up, the Hamamatsu-based automaker’s local division has hinted at some specification details.
From what we can tell, the new Across will be available in the GL and GLX grades, mirroring the approach taken with the Grand Vitara. As a reminder, the Across rides on the same Global C platform as the Grand Vitara (and shares its 2 600 mm wheelbase), though at 4 360 mm it’s 15 mm longer. Also note the Indian-sourced Across coming to SA is not based on Toyota’s RAV4, as is the case in Europe.
According to Suzuki Auto SA, the Across will be offered locally with a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (complete with multiple display modes), a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system (likely linked to a reverse-view camera) and a powered tailgate (complete with gesture control). We expect 6 airbags to be included as standard across the line-up.
In addition, the range-topping GLX trim level looks set to ship with an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, front-seat ventilation, an 8-speaker “Infinity by Harman” sound system and 64-colour customisable ambient lighting for the cabin. Furthermore, one of Suzuki Auto SA’s teaser videos for the newcomer shows a large panoramic sunroof, while we expect various advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) features to be available, too.
So, what engine will do duty in the new Across? Well, Suzuki Auto SA has yet to officially confirm powertrain options for the local market, so far saying only that a “highly efficient petrol engine that delivers confident, reliable performance” will be available.
However, we’d speculate the newcomer will be offered with the mild-hybrid version of the Japanese firm’s familiar naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol motor (K15C), delivering peak outputs of around 76 kW and 137 Nm. Transmission choices are likely to include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed automatic cog-swapper.
Late in 2025, Suzuki Auto SA quietly rationalised its Grand Vitara range, dropping both the mid-spec GLX manual derivative and the flagship GLX mild-hybrid AWD variant. This action was seemingly taken to make room for the upcoming Across.
For the record, the Across is available in India – where it’s produced by Maruti Suzuki at the brand’s Kharkhoda plant and badged as the “Victoris” – with a trio of powertrain options. There’s the aforementioned mild-hybrid option, along with a petrol/CNG (compressed natural gas) powertrain also based on the K15C unit and a Toyota-sourced 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder traditional hybrid arrangement.
Q: Is the SA-spec Suzuki Across the same as the one sold in Europe?
A: No. While the European-spec Across is a rebadged Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, the South African version is an Indian-sourced model based on the Suzuki Victoris. It shares the same “Global C” platform and 2 600 mm wheelbase as the Grand Vitara, but features a slightly longer body (4 360 mm) and a more tech-focused interior.
Q: What makes the Across “more advanced” than the Grand Vitara?
A: The Across introduces several features never before seen in a local Suzuki. Key highlights include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8-speaker Infinity by Harman sound system with Dolby Atmos, and a powered tailgate with gesture control. It might also become the first Suzuki in SA to feature Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist.
Q: Will there be a high-performance or hybrid version for South Africa?
A: While India gets a “Strong Hybrid” version, the South African line-up is expected to focus on the 1.5-litre K15C mild-hybrid petrol engine. For those needing extra grip, the flagship GLX model will likely offer the AllGrip Select AWD system paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Related content
New Suzuki Across (aka Victoris) locked in for SA
