WHEN you have a car that has sold over nine million world-wide in the last decade any redesign or upgrade has got to get it right.
That is why Suzuki’s fourth-generation Swift hybrid is an evolution rather than a revolution with all the tech we have come to expect plus the reassurance of petrol power for those who suffer with range anxiety.
Suzuki has switched the old four-pot engine for an all-new, 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild hybrid unit. It’s as powerful as the old engine but eight per cent more fuel efficient (up to 65mpg) produces less CO2 and is a second faster to 62mph (12.5).
Inside and out the new Swift has been revamped. The dimensions haven’t changed, but the headlights and front grille have been restyled to give a more updated look while the rear tailgate now has an integrated spoiler and the whole car is more rounded and aerodynamic.
The suspension has been uprated too with an improved front stabiliser bar for more rigidity and softer settings for better comfort at the back.
Inside has been revised with hard wearing materials used meaning little in the way of soft surfaces, but while some describe this approach as less luxurious it does mean a robust set up that should be long lasting. It all looks good with a modern design to liven the cabin up and make things feel bang up to date,
There no shortage of tech in the new Swift with a 9-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and heated front seats all included as standard across the range.
For a supermini interior space is class leading with loads of headroom front and rear and good legroom for rear passengers.
Previous Swifts were known for good value, fun motoring and this newest offering keeps up the tradition. With prescise steering and a low kerbweight (949kg) the Swift feels nimble with an all-round excellent driving experience.
While the 81bhp on tap means no traffic light grand prix victories the Swift does have adequate go power with a slick manual gearbox plus well-weighted steering so it feels nimble, well-balanced and agile. The new Swift is also available with an optional CVT gearbox, but its the manual that delivers the best driving experience.
Flat out it will do 103mph in base Motion spec or 106mph in Ultra. The Swift’s ALLGRIP four-wheel drive variant has a top speed of 99mph.
Being a mild hybrid the Swift can’t be charged up like a full EV but instead uses energy regenerated when braking to help power the vehicle and improve efficiency.
In line with the Swift’s minimalist ethos, Suzuki has kept the trim range short. There are only two grades to choose from, Motion and Ultra, but even in base-spec you get plenty included in the list price
Motion trim includes adaptive cruise control, a nine-inch infotainment display and many driving assistance features as standard among a long list of other tech and safety features. On top of Motion’s kit list, Ultra cars get even more including automatic air con and power fold door mirrors.
Manual Motion cars start from £18,699, while a manual Ultra will set you back £19,799. For 4×4 allgrip you will have to pay £21,749.
Since 2004 Suzuki has sold over nine million Swifts and it has been one of the great success stories of Japan’s automotive industry relying on back-to-basics fun and functionality for a great price.
Downsides are those slightly harsh interior materials and a smaller boot than rivals but the new Swift remains cheap, well-equipped and is more nimble and efficient than ever.
For more information see www.suzuki.co.uk
By Motoring Editor Steve Howarth