BUOYED by the sales success of its new Vitara crossover, Suzuki has introduced a top-of-the-range version armed with a new engine.

We'll be hearing a lot more about the Boosterjet direct injection turbocharged petrol unit that is making its debut in the Vitara S.

It will appear next year in smaller form in the new Suzuki hatchback, the Baleno, and is also earmarked for use in a smaller model the following year.

For the Vitara S, it is a compact 140PS 1.4-litre version that has the key advantage of offering 220Nm of torque available from 1,500rpm through to 4,000rpm.

In simple terms it is not only negating the need for a diesel choice to get that wider torque band but also providing a genuinely powerful and fuel-efficient alternative. Such is the nature of engines now that this engine is not only the smallest to propel the Vitara but also the most powerful.

With one eye firmly on the growing crossover sector, and with petrol-engined cars now outselling diesel, Suzuki reckons it is on to a winner here. And that confidence comes with good reason.

Motoring journalists from across the UK were invited to test the abilities of the Vitara S at the Croft racing circuit in North Yorkshire, where not only its power but also its steering, handling and grip qualities were given a thorough examination.

It's fair to say that matched with Suzuki's new-generation Allgrip four-wheel drive system it passed with flying colours, drawing equal levels of admiration from racing drivers who demonstrated how hard it could be pushed through twists, turns and hairpins.

But in the world of the crossover, attracting the customer is about much more than engines and transmission.

Suzuki has added some eye-catching cosmetics to tempt buyers, including gloss black 17-inch alloy wheels, a vertical grille design, rear upper spoiler, silver door mirrors, black side body mouldings and red interior stitching and accents on the vents, plus aluminium alloy pedals.

There's a choice of four body colours and the opportunity for further personalisation on the grille, bumper garnishes, instrument panel and even the clock.

It is a million miles away from the rugged off-roader that first introduced a lot of drivers to the brand in 1988.

With looks not dissimilar to the Range Rover Evoque and the raft of personalisation options, this is very much a Vitara for the 21st century.

Vitara prices start at £13,999, and you get a lot for your money. The Vitara S with the new engine, high specification and All Grip system will cost about £21,000 with manual transmission and £1,400 more for an automatic.

The compact dimensions of this five-door will not deter those looking for an urban runaround that is relatively easy to park and has the advantage of a raised driving position.

With a nod to Suzuki’s SUV styling heritage, the clamshell bonnet gives the front end a beefy look of solidity, while the roof line slopes gently downward toward the rear.

There are LED daytime running lights on even the entry model, together with 16-inch alloy wheels, so you get the feeling that you are not being short-changed.

There are 10 colours to choose from apart from the Vitara S, as well as five two-tone combinations, which incorporate a black or white roof.

Bluetooth and DAB Radio, cruise control, auto air conditioning, front and rear electric windows and projector headlamps are fitted as standard in SZ4 entry models, while further up the food chain in SZT specification and above you get find smartphone link audio and navigation, 17-inch alloys and rear privacy glass SZ5 trim adds LED projector headlamps, polished alloys, keyless entry with start button, adaptive cruise control and radar brake support.

Step inside and there’s more to raise the eyebrows. There are hints of toughness in the cabin layout but equally the ventilation louvres help give a sporty look.

The driving position is excellent, and if you opt for the SZ5 or S versions you will find yourself in very comfortable seats.

For many, two-wheel drive matched with either the 1.6-litre petrol or 1.6-litre DDiS engine, will be perfectly adequate.

But you may feel a Vitara would not be a Vitara without the option of four-wheel drive capability, which comes as an option on SZ5 models and as standard on the S model. The deal-clincher for some will be that new turbocharged petrol engine.

AT A GLANCE

Suzuki Vitara S

Price: £21,000 (estimated)

Engine: 1.4-litre four cylinder turbo-charged petrol

Transmission: Six-speed manual (auto available) with Allgrip four-wheel drive system

Performance: 0 to 62mph in 10.2 seconds; top speed 124mph

Economy: 52.3mpg combined

CO2 emissions: 127g/km