SUZUKI SWIFT

What is it? Compact hatchback, now into its fourth generation

When is it available? Spring 2024

Biggest changes? Exterior and interior overhaul and more safety tech

Fleet appeal? A new 1.2-litre engine, mated to a mild hybrid system

SMART NEW SWIFT

Suzuki has not veered too far away from its familiar looks on the outside of the latest hatchback, but there’s a new grille, redesigned lights and flared fenders. At the rear, there’s a redesigned bumper and more new lamps. Colour-wise, drivers have a choice of eight single-tone options and four dual-tone designs. Frontier Blue Pearl and Burning Red Pearl are two metallics that are set to prove popular.

INTERNAL UPGRADES

A lot of effort has been made to enhance the driver experience, which has culminated in more comfort, ergonomic features and screens. There’s a 9-inch HD touchscreen, which supports smartphone connectivity and voice recognition, while providing updates on the vehicle status. The screen is angled slightly towards the driver to make it easier to read and use.

SUZUKI SELECTS SAFETY

The new Swift offers a plethora of advanced safety systems to keep drivers and other vulnerable road users safe. There’s Suzuki’s Dual Sensor Brake Support II, lane keep assist functionality and a driver monitoring system that is operated via a camera within the instrument panel to monitor eye and face movements. Other items of note here are lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition technology.

ENGINEERING EVOLUTIONS

The powertrain choice is limited to a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol that has been updated to offer improved fuel economy, reduced emissions and higher low-speed torque. For further environmental benefits, there’s s a mild hybrid system to further help fuel efficiency. Elsewhere, Swift will also be available with an automatic four-wheel-drive system that engages when it detects a loss of traction at the front wheels.

VERDICT

As the world transitions over to electric cars, many would be forgiven for thinking there is no place for the likes of the humble ICE hatchback. However, these are uncertain times and many drivers will prefer to stick with what they know best. For that reason, many will be choosing low-cost, convenient transport, such as the Swift. Improving on an already impressive car should be enough to tempt plenty of fleets.

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