Suzuki launched the new generation of its Swift hatchback in 2018, making the car prettier and sportier. So how has this little car from the popular Japanese car and bike manufacturer evolved? We take a look at the new Suzuki Swift’s pros and cons.
1. Sleek exterior design
The Swift comes to its own in its new generation, looking more cohesive and distinct, especially when compared to its predecessor, which was heavily inspired by MINI. The new fascia of Suzuki's hatch features a wide hexagonal grille along with a bold bumper, LED headlights, and wrap-around windshield. Turning to the side, the Swift boasts curvy bulges and blacked-out pillars, signaling an effective marriage of some obvious European design elements with Suzuki’s renowned ‘kei’ heritage. At the rear, the Swift shows off a large bumper, distinctive LED taillights, and a stylish spoiler.
2. Smaller engine, more power
The old generation Swift was equipped with a 1.4-liter engine that comes with variable valve timing and electronic throttle control, and produces 94hp and 130Nm of torque. The new Swift on the other hand, is powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine that delivers 82hp and 113Nm of torque. Despite having a smaller-displacement and lower power output, the new engine is said to improve on the Swift’s agility and stability.
3. Now with CVT
Aside from the engine, Suzuki also upgraded the Swift’s gearbox, introducing a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the upper trim. For purists, the base model remains equipped with a 5-speed manual.
4. A well-equipped hatch
Suzuki gave the Swift with a lot of goodies. Even the base model comes with upscale amenities including heater, pollen filter, touchscreen infotainment, Bluetooth, LED position lamps with daytime running lamps, and electromagnetic tailgate opener, to name a few. Most noticeably, the Swift hosts some high tech safety systems rarely found in the vehicle’s price range including brake assist, engine immobilizer, security alarm, and a lightweight impact-absorbing monocoque body courtesy of Total Effective Control Technology (TECT).
5. Surprisingly spacious
The Swift hides its roominess well. Though it may look tiny, it’s got a 2450mm wheelbase and 1495mm height that belies its headroom and legroom. The dimensions of the all-new Swift is shorter and lower as compared to its predecessor, making the new Swift is shorter by 10mm and lower by 35mm, while also being wider by 40mm, with a 20mm longer wheelbase. These dimensional maneuverings raise the all-new Swift's cargo space to 265 liters, which is 54 liters more than the outgoing model. In addition, improvements in the cabin design ensures spaciousness even with the dimensional reductions.
6. All of that, for under a mil
The new Swift comes in two variants: GL 1.2L MT (PHP775,000), and GL 1.2L CVT (PHP818,000). Add to that, the Swift now has six color options including Pearl Pure White, Metallic Star Silver, Metallic Speedy Blue 3, Metallic Mineral Gray 2, Pearl Super Black 2, and Pearl Ablaze Red 3. A Special Edition Suzuki Swift comes with an additional PHP49,800 to the price tag, but even with that, the Swift still remains costing way below a million pesos.
1. Cheap plastics in the interior
The Swift cabin has its snazzy design going for it, but its snappy styling can’t hide the fact that cheap, hard plastics are in widespread use in the car’s interior. It could help the Swift’s style points if higher quality material was used the next time around.
2. Stiff ride
The stiffened suspension imbues the Swift with impressive handling, but this compromises the ride quality somewhat. Of course, different drivers have different tastes for these things, so you’ll have to see for yourself if the stiffed up ride is to your liking or not.
As one of Suzuki’ more reliable sellers, the Swift has a lot going for it. If you’re looking for an affordable hatch with respectable features and don’t mind the fact that Suzuki cut corners with the interior materials, then you’ll be more than happy with what the Swift gives you. But if you’re willing to spend more for a bit more style and flair, perhaps you’ll be interested in the Toyota Yaris or Honda Jazz.
Photos from Suzuki
Also read:
2020 Suzuki Celerio: The 2 variants in detail
2020 Suzuki S-Presso vs. the competition: Your other small hatchback options
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