Suzuki Swift Car Review: The Most Underrated Small Car

November 30, 2023

If you are like me, you probably have been wondering why the Suzuki Swift is the unsung hero of small cars. Well, think about this: racing through city streets with cars. Just figure it out being in your dream car.

The Suzuki Swift might be the most underrated small car out there. Packed with features, style, and performance, the Swift is a compact vehicle without compromising fun or functionality. This isn’t just another car review; it’s your ticket to uncovering a hidden treasure in the automotive world.

We’re peeling back the layers to unveil the hidden gem of the Suzuki Swift. Get ready for discovery as we explore why this compact wonder deserves a spotlight in the world of automobiles!

A brief overview of the Suzuki Swift

The Suzuki Swift is a small but dependable car that is good on gas. The Swift Sport model is also fast. Even though it has to compete with popular small cars, the Swift stands out because of its solid construction and easy-to-use features. The interior is simple and durable, with a basic touchscreen infotainment system.

Its agility and light controls make it enjoyable to drive in the city, though it could be faster on the motorway. The standard Swift uses a 1.2-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine that delivers fair fuel economy.

If you want a faster car with more features, the Swift Sport has a stronger 1.4-litre engine and a sporty look. It also has better brakes, an upgraded suspension for smoother rides, and improved cooling to keep the engine from getting too hot.

Despite being slower than some competitors, the Swift offers a balance of reliability and enjoyable driving experience.

History of the Suzuki Swift

Suzuki is a well-known car company from Japan that started in 1909. It’s famous worldwide for making different types of cheap, trustworthy, and useful cars.

The Suzuki Swift is one of its many models. It’s a small car that has become popular all over the world. People like it because it has modern features, lasts a long time, and looks stylish.

The history of the Suzuki Swift is intriguing, spanning several generations. The earlier models, produced from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s, were often referred to as the Suzuki Cultus.

Recognized for their compact size and economical performance, these models have undergone numerous design and technological advancements over the years. However, in 2005, Suzuki dropped the Cultus nameplate and introduced the Swift name for all models sold globally.

First Generation Suzuki Swift (2005-2009)

The first generation of Suzuki Swift marked Suzuki’s significant step into the compact car segment. This lightweight hatchback boasted swept-back headlights, tall door panels, a high greenhouse, and black A and B pillars.

Measuring 145.5 inches long with a 94-inch wheelbase, it featured tall seats providing ample passenger legroom. Suzuki harnessed its kei-car experience to offer an adequate driving position for most customers.

The Suzuki Swift offers two types of petrol engines. One is a 1.3-litre engine with 92 horsepower. You can get it with an automatic or manual five-speed gear system.

It comes in all-wheel drive (AWD) and front-wheel drive (FWD) options. The other is a 1.5-litre engine with 102 horsepower. It has a five-speed manual gear system and is available in AWD and FWD options.

Second Generation Suzuki Swift (2010-2016)

The new version of the Suzuki Swift came out in 2010. You can get it with three or five doors. It has a cool, sporty look with slanted front pillars and triangle-shaped headlights.

The front and back of the car are rounded, and it has a thin grille at the front. The five-door version featured split windows on the rear doors with short front doors.

The interior of the vehicle boasts elevated seating, ensuring generous room for those in the back. The cabin comes complete with an infotainment system, a climate control mechanism, and an instrument cluster inspired by Japanese aesthetics.

Under the hood of the second-generation Swift, you’ll find a 1.2-litre inline engine that churns out 94 horsepower. It can be matched with either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox.

The Swift model has been key to Suzuki’s success, starting as the Cultus and gaining global fame. The Swift continues to change with each new version, showing Suzuki’s commitment to creativity, usefulness, and customer needs.

Third Generation Suzuki Swift (2016-Present)

Built on the lightweight HEARTECT platform, the third-generation Swift is approximately 10% lighter than its predecessor. It features a unique design, with only a 5-door body style available. However, it mimics a 3-door look due to the rear door handles relocated to the C-pillar.

The interior offers seating for five and a range of comfort and convenience features. These include climate control, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a rear-view camera.

Additionally, it boasts a seven-inch infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The third-generation Swift houses a 1.2-liter Dualjet inline-4 engine that churns out 92 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque.

Third Generation Suzuki Swift Facelift (2020-Present)

The third-generation Swift received a facelift in 2020, further refining its design and performance. The refresh rounded off the car’s edges and introduced a wider front grille.

The Swift now features swept-back headlights, and masked rear door handles that blend seamlessly into the C-pillar. The interior remains the same, offering a balance of function and design.

The updated model came with LED daytime running lights embedded in the lower bumper. Despite no major alterations to the overall design and interior, the engine options underwent some revisions.

The lineup now included a 1.2-litre engine, delivering 94 horsepower and offering the choice of a five-speed or four-speed manual transmission. A 1.2-litre ECO engine was also available, generating 94 horsepower and paired exclusively with a five-speed manual transmission.

Lastly, they introduced a 1.6-litre engine with a robust 136 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission.

Design and Aesthetics

Exterior Design Features

The Suzuki Swift boasts an array of impressive exterior design features that contribute to its distinctive and dynamic look.

One of the standout elements is its re-designed smoked LED headlamps. These come with Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) to provide excellent visibility and enhance the car’s front profile.

Complementing these are the revised fog lamp housings situated below the headlamps. They not only improve the lighting capabilities but also add to its sporty aesthetic.

A notable highlight of the Swift’s exterior is the placement of the Suzuki logo. This logo sits proudly atop the bonnet, serving as a bold statement of the brand’s identity.

The appeal is further elevated by its newly designed dual-tone alloy wheels. They enhance the vehicle’s road presence and improve its overall performance by offering better grip and stability.

Adding to the car’s striking appearance are the blacked-out Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVMs), roof, and pillars. This blacked-out theme creates a sleek contrast against the body colour, giving the Swift a modern look.

Interior Design And Comfort

The interior is spacious, offering maximum utility space for all your needs. The cabin’s design provides ample room for passengers and cargo.

A significant feature is the 265-litre luggage space. You can expand using a 60:40 seat folding configuration for versatile usage.

For enhanced driving comfort, the Swift features a leather-covered D-shaped steering wheel. This isn’t just comfortable to grip. It also includes audio and smartphone controls.

These features allow for a comfortable drive, enabling you to control your entertainment and connectivity without taking your hands off the wheel.

The sporty black console decorated with silver adds a touch of elegance to the interior. It complements the sporty design of the speedometer and tachometer, which come with an LCD information display. This setup allows you to enjoy and monitor Swift’s performance at a glance.

Entertainment is at your fingertips with an 8-inch display touchscreen. The system comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features ensure that you stay entertained and connected throughout your journey.

The Swift offers up to seven cap and bottle holders for multi-purpose storage spaces for convenience. These thoughtful inclusions underscore Swift’s commitment to delivering a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Performance and Efficiency

Engine Specifications

The Suzuki Swift comes equipped with a robust K12M engine. This engine operates on a two-wheel drive (2WD) system, allowing for efficient power distribution and improved fuel economy.

The piston displacement of the K12M engine is 1,197 cubic centimetres. This measurement indicates the volume displaced by the engine’s pistons, contributing to its overall power output.

The engine features a bore and stroke measurement of 73.0 x 71.5 millimetres. These dimensions relate to the diameter of the engine’s cylinders and the distance the piston travels within the cylinder (stroke). Both of which affect the engine’s efficiency and power.

The K12M engine has a compression ratio of 11.5. This high compression ratio allows the engine to compress the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders efficiently, leading to more power during combustion.

The maximum output of the engine is 83 PS at 6,000 rpm, signifying the peak power it can produce. Its maximum torque is 108 Nm at 4,400 rpm. Torque is what helps Suzuki accelerate and maintain speed under various driving conditions.

Fuel distribution in the Suzuki Swift’s K12M engine is handled through a multipoint injection system. This system provides each cylinder with a fuel injector, enhancing the engine’s performance and efficiency.

The recommended fuel type for this engine is E20, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline. The use of this biofuel can help reduce harmful emissions, making the Suzuki Swift a more environmentally friendly choice.

Fuel Efficiency And Eco-Friendliness

The Suzuki Swift boasts a fuel consumption rate of approximately 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres. This impressive figure places it among the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its category, setting a high standard for economical driving.

The fuel efficiency is achieved through a combination of lightweight construction and design. They reduce drag and allow the car to move more smoothly and efficiently. And also efficient engine technology plays a significant role in lowering fuel consumption.

Handling And Driving Experience

The Suzuki Swift offers an impressive driving experience that combines comfort, agility, and power. The 1.4T engine has a surprising mid-range delivery. It provides robust power output. This makes it ideal for quick city driving. It’s also great for long-distance journeys on open roads.

The ride quality of the Suzuki Swift strikes a perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The suspension provides a firm and sporty feel, yet it does not compromise the comfort of the passengers. This balance makes the car versatile and capable of handling both city commuting and spirited driving sessions.

One of the standout features of the Suzuki Swift is its confidence-inspiring front end. The sharp turn-in and minimal body roll make it a delight to drive through winding roads.

Adding to the sporty feel of the Suzuki Swift is the short-ratio 6-speed gearbox. It offers satisfying short throws and snappy gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. This feature complements the car’s agile handling, making driving engaging.

The brakes on the Suzuki Swift also deserve a mention. They provide ample stopping power, ensuring safety even when driving at high speeds. The brake pedal feel is reassuring, allowing the driver to regulate the braking force easily.

Technological Features

Infotainment System

The Suzuki Swift’s infotainment system, anchored by a 7.0-inch colour touchscreen, enhances the driving experience with integrated entertainment, navigation, and connectivity. Key features include DAB radio for quality audio and diverse channels and Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music streaming.

The system supports smartphone mirroring via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It lets you access apps, music, messages, and, most importantly, your phone’s sat-nav on the car’s screen. However, built-in satellite navigation is exclusively available on the top-spec SZ5 trim.

Safety Features

The Suzuki Swift is recognized for its exceptional Suzuki safety support. Its 5-star rating from ANCAP evidences this. This is the highest independent safety rating a vehicle can receive, which underscores the Swift’s commitment to passenger protection.

The Swift’s sound structure absorbs and disperses impact energy from the passenger compartment. And thereby reducing the risk of injury in a crash. It also enhances stability and handling, helping to avoid potential accidents.

Passive safety features are designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision, reducing the risk of serious injury. Advanced safety assist technologies further enhance its safety credentials.

These technologies actively help to prevent accidents by detecting potential hazards and responding accordingly. While they may vary by model, such technologies often include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Connectivity Options

The Suzuki Swift’s central Smartphone Linkage Display Audio (SLDA) system provides various connectivity options, creating an interactive driving experience. The Swift supports Bluetooth® for wireless smartphone connection, enabling hands-free calls and music streaming.

An alternative is connecting your device via a USB cable, which allows app access through the car’s display and charges your device. The SLDA system also features radio functions for entertainment diversity and integrates a rear-view camera for safety during reversing.

Additionally, it includes navigation functions, providing visual and voice-guided directions.

Affordability and Value for Money

The Suzuki Swift is a vehicle that marries cost with value for money. It is an excellent choice for budget-conscious car buyers. With a price range of $23,490 to $32,490, the Swift offers a spectrum of models and features that cater to different needs and budgets.

Despite its relatively low cost, the Swift doesn’t compromise on quality or performance. The car offers a fuel-efficient drive. The consumption rate ranges from 4.6 to 6.1 L/100 KM.

This rate depends on the model and driving conditions. Such fuel efficiency can lead to substantial savings over time. Therefore, the Swift becomes more economical in the long run.

The value of the Swift extends beyond just its price tag and fuel efficiency. The car is loaded with advanced features common in pricier models.

Comparison with Competitors

In terms of reliability, Suzuki stands out as a strong competitor among other automotive brands such as Kia and Honda. According to various sources, Suzuki consistently ranks high for reliability, often outperforming its competitors.

A comparison between Suzuki and Kia reveals that Kia comes 3rd behind Suzuki with 80 problems per 100 vehicles. Honda ranked much lower at 15th, with 117 problems per 100 vehicles.

While the three brands are famous for their reliability, Suzuki seems to have a slight edge. However, the ultimate decision will depend on individual preferences and specific car models.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes The Suzuki Swift Stand Out In The Small Car Segment?

The Suzuki Swift stands out due to its features. They include modern design, impressive performance, fuel efficiency, advanced features, and excellent value for money. Its reputation for reliability further enhances its appeal.

How Does The Suzuki Swift Perform In Terms Of Fuel Efficiency?

The average fuel consumption for the 2019 model is around 36.3 MPG. This converts to 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres, making it one of the more fuel-efficient vehicles in its class.

Is the Suzuki Boosterjet Direct Injection Different from a Turbo Engine?

Yes, but it may have some distinct features and characteristics. They set it apart from other turbocharged engines. However, it works on the same principle of using a turbocharger to enhance the engine’s performance.

What Are The Maintenance Costs Associated With Owning A Suzuki Swift?

The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Suzuki Swift ranges from $95 to $2261, with an average of $301. The average annual maintenance cost is reported to be just $685.

What Is The Warranty Coverage For The Suzuki Swift?

The Suzuki Swift comes with a comprehensive warranty, although the specifics can vary depending on the region. In Australia, new Suzuki cars are covered by a 5-year/unlimited-kilometer warranty.

Conclusion

Suzuki Swift is a giant car in the world of automobiles. It’s clear that this compact dynamo has a lot to offer, often outshining its more recognized competitors.

If you’re in the market for a small car that packs a punch, don’t overlook the Swift. It might just be the underdog that takes you by surprise and wins your heart. Remember, size isn’t everything, and the Suzuki Swift is living proof of that!

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