Of course, no vehicle is sentient, by definition, an inanimate object is by definition non-sentient. However, The Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid is a Suzuki, perhaps the most hyperbolic, oxymoron statement ever made. But it is the truth because the truth is out there. Here’s how it works, Suzuki doesn’t have the technical expertise or investment capability to engineer a plug-in hybrid on its own merit. So in 2017 little Suzuki partnered up with Toyota. The partnership allows Suzuki access to expensive-to-engineer hybrid systems and in return, Toyota gets Suzuki’s small capacity petrol engines in return. Simples.
From this partnership was born the Suzuki Across which is entirely based on a Toyota RAV4, lock-stock, and smoking barrels included. The differences between the Across and RAV4 are minimal, save for the redesigned front grille, front and rear bumpers and re-designed front and rear light clusters. And last but not least, the Suzuki logo replaces the Toyota badge.
The UK spec ACROSS is available in six different colours – White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Sensual Red Mica, Grey Metallic and Dark Blue Mica. The interior design is virtually unchanged from the RAV4.
Toyota’s Plug-in Hybrid system comprises of a front electric motor that delivers torque at low speeds and combines with a 2.5-liter petrol engine for rapid acceleration at higher speeds. With a maximum output of 306bhp (134kW) and 270Nm of torque, the electric motor draws its energy from an 18.1kWh (50.9 Ah) high capacity lithium-ion battery that is mounted beneath the floor.
The electric-only range is estimated to be between 25 and 47 miles and claimed emissions of CO2 emissions as low as 22 gramsCO2 emissions as low as 22 grams as low as 22 grams per km. The Plug-in Hybrid system is equipped with four modes—the default EV mode, Auto EV/HV mode, HV mode, and battery charger mode.
The E-Four electronic 4×4 system in the ACROSS provides drivers with 4×4 performance while claiming improved fuel efficiency. The system features an independent 40kW rear motor that works in conjunction with the front motor to provide front: rear torque variation ranging from 100:00 to 20:80.
So what is the point of the Across? It will never eat into RAV4 sales. Look at it another way. Think of the Across as a get out of jail card for Suzuki. The Across represents a way of meeting continually stringent emissions laws. If Suzuki fails to meet corporate C02 emissions targets then it will be fined. The Across is the equivalent of planting trees. And it will save Suzuki money in the long term.
The Suzuki Across will go on sale in the UK and across Europe in Autumn, although prices are yet to be revealed expect the Across not to stray too far from the RAV4’s entry-level £33k price point.
