Discover the S-Cross Base Model: Feature-Packed and Budget-Friendly
The S-Cross base model stands out as a unique offering in its segment. It provides an impressive array of features that are often missing in other entry-level cars like the Tiago or Punch. This makes it a highly attractive option for car buyers looking for value. The S-Cross base model starts at an ex-showroom price of around ₹5,74,000, with the top model reaching approximately ₹9,00,000 (on-road in Lucknow).
Engine Performance and Fuel Options
The S-Cross offers both petrol and CNG fuel options. The petrol variant features a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder engine, delivering 83 BHP of power and 113 Nm of torque. It provides a claimed mileage of approximately 20 kmpl. The CNG variant offers 68 BHP of power and 96 Nm of torque, with an even better mileage of around 28 kmpl.
Exterior Highlights
Even the S-Cross base model impresses with its exterior features. It comes with a convenient flip key that includes remote central locking, allowing you to lock, unlock, and open the boot with ease. The car features normal halogen headlamps with reflectors and side indicators on the fenders. It does not include DRLs or fog lamps, as fog lamps have been removed from all variants. The front fascia of the S-Cross looks quite appealing.
Dimensions and Ground Clearance
The S-Cross measures 3815 mm in length, 1680 mm in width, and 1520 mm in height. Its wheelbase is 2450 mm. The length has increased by 10 mm due to the connected tail lamps. The car offers a ground clearance of 167 mm, which is decent for a hatchback. Side-wise, the base model has a plain roof, with dual-tone options available in sportier variants. It does not come with wheel covers in the base model, and the door handles are finished in a matte black. The outside mirrors are manually adjustable and foldable, also in matte black.
Wheels and Brakes
The S-Cross base model is equipped with 14-inch steel wheels. The front wheels have disc brakes, while the rear wheels feature drum brakes. The tire profile is 165/70 R14, using radial tires.
Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior
Step inside the S-Cross, and you’ll find a dual-tone dashboard. While an audio system is not included, it can be added later. The base model offers a height-adjustable driver’s seat and striking blue ambient lighting near the footwell. Importantly, it comes with a total of six airbags, making it a feature-loaded and safe option in its segment. The car also features body-colored A-pillars and ‘S’ badging on the C-pillar.
Rear Design and Practicality
At the rear, the S-Cross sports connected LED tail lamps, with the side lamps illuminating. It includes indicators and a reverse light. The bumper is body-colored and houses two reverse parking sensors. Reflectors are present on both sides. The license plate light is yellow, and the plate area is blacked out.
Boot Space and Fuel Capacity
The S-Cross offers a substantial boot space of 260 liters, perfect for carrying your luggage. The rear seats are fully foldable but do not offer a 60:40 split. The spare wheel is a 13-inch steel rim, which is one size smaller than the main 14-inch wheels. Tools like a jack and spanner are also provided. For CNG variants, the boot space will naturally be reduced due to the tank. The fuel tank capacity for petrol variants is 37 liters.
Rear Passenger Comfort
The rear seats are designed for comfort, offering good legroom, knee room, and thigh support. They include airbags and three-point seatbelts. Adjustable headrests are provided for all rear passengers. While there are no rear AC vents or a parcel tray in the base model, a parcel tray can be added as an accessory. The wide seats ensure comfortable seating for passengers, though there is no armrest.
Driver’s Cockpit and Controls
The driver’s door features child locks and space for a water bottle. The driver’s seat is fabric and offers both height adjustment and recline functions. Controls for headlamp adjustment are conveniently placed. The car comes with a manual transmission, and a dead pedal is also present. Blue ambient lighting extends to the driver’s footstep area.
The dual-tone dashboard creates a pleasant cabin environment. The steering wheel is a standard, un-wrapped design. The analog instrument cluster features an RPM meter, a speedometer marked up to 220 kmph, and digital bars for fuel and temperature. A multi-information display (MID) shows various details like mileage (claimed 20 kmpl), trip average, and range. The steering wheel is fixed and does not offer adjustment. Standard controls for headlamps and wipers are located on the stalks.
Center Console and Storage
The center console is ready for an aftermarket touchscreen infotainment system, which can include a reverse parking camera. It features a hazard light switch and blacked-out AC vents with manual controls. A 12V charging outlet and a space for a phone are located below. The car comes with a 5-speed manual transmission. Two cup holders and a manual handbrake are also present. Storage spaces are available in the door trims, and the glove box is a normal, non-cooled type. The driver’s sun visor includes a ticket holder, while the passenger’s sun visor is plain.
Pricing and Advanced Safety
The S-Cross base model (Era petrol variant) has an ex-showroom price of ₹5,74,000, going up to approximately ₹6,78,000 on-road in Lucknow.
Safety is a key highlight, with features like ABS with EBD, six airbags, reverse parking sensors, a speed alert system, seat belt warnings, and an engine immobilizer.
Is the S-Cross the Right Car for You?
If you are looking for a feature-loaded hatchback in the ₹6,00,000 to ₹7,00,000 price range, the S-Cross is a strong contender. Compared to other cars in its segment, it offers a more comprehensive set of features, particularly in its base model.
