Suzuki Swift

The Suzuki Swift made its debut at the 2004 Paris Auto Salon. Designed to compete in the European B segment with the Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto, it is targeted as a sporty subcompact with the company moving away from the image of a budget car.

What makes the Suzuki Swift such a popular car is its good looks and well balanced chassis setup. Its design and driving characteristics are tuned for the European market and as such, it managed to set a high standard which is unusual for a Japanese make. While the exterior looks attract the ladies, it is the driving dynamics that make many guys fall for the Swift. It is for this reason that the Swift is so well received everywhere.

Available with 1.3 (92 bhp) and 1.5 (102 bhp) liter petrol engines, the Swift is Suzuki’s global car. 3 and 5 door bodies are available and 4 wheel drive is an option with the 1.3 liter petrol engine.

The suspension system is MacPherson strut for the front and torsion beam plus coil spring for the rear. There is also Electronic Power steering (EPS) which gives better fuel economy. There in lies the proper balance of all the parts giving the Swift a drive comparable to the Mini.

The interior is decent and classy. Leg and head room is good for front passengers but can get uncomfortable for rear passengers. Due to its roof design there is less head room at the back.

The Swift has a multi information display that displays time, outside air temperature and the current fuel consumption. I find the fuel consumption calculation useful because in a driver’s car like the Suzuki Swift, keeping a light right foot would be rather difficult.

Furthermore, the transmission is programmed for spirited driving. It can down shift easily and there are complaints from some who are used to more leisurely cruising. The good news is there is less need to shift down manually when you’re overtaking.

Specifications:

Overall Length: 3,695 mm
Overall Width: 1,690 mm
Overall Height: 1,510 mm
Wheelbase: 2,390 mm
Track(Front/Rear): 1470/1480 mm

The Swift has the M15A 1.5 liter DOHC VVT engine, while the Swift Sport has high lift cams, forged pistons and strengthened valve springs.

The 1.6 liter engine produces 125 bhp (91 kW) at 6800 rpm and 148 N·m (109 ft·lbf) torque at 4800 rpm.

Only downside to the almost perfect compact car is the Suzuki Swift’s small boot size. You can practically forget trips to Ikea.