WHAT’S NEW

PRICE The run-out model was $15,990 drive-away with auto. The new model starts at the same price but as a manual (and without satnav, reversing camera or Apple Car Play/Android Auto). The GL auto is $17,990 drive-away, $500 more than the Toyota Yaris and Kia Rio and $1000 less than the Mazda2.

TECH Radar cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection (up to 50km/h), accident mitigation from 50-100km/h and lane wander warning are now standard on the $22,990 drive-away GLX and a $1200 option on the GL auto.

PERFORMANCE The GL’s engine drops from 1.4 litres to 1.2 but Suzuki has countered the drop in power and torque by slashing the weight by 135kg to 900kg. The 1.2 gets off to a slow start but acceleration is comparable with the GLX with 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo.

DRIVING In either spec, the Swift’s 16-inch wheels are shod with Bridgestone tyres so it steers sharply in corners and has plenty of grip. Overall, it has impressive quietness (for a city car) and comfort over bumps. The GL has rear drum brakes and the GLX has discs all-round. The brakes feel good in both cars but the GLX pulls up shorter in an emergency stop from 100km/h (39m versus 40m).

DESIGN The new body is shorter, wider and lower than the previous model. It has a bigger footprint but a tighter turning circle. Other good news: the boot is bigger, although it houses a space-saver rather than full-size spare. Both models get LED tail-lights but the GLX gets more distinctive LED headlights and is further distinguished by polished alloys.