COVER New Suzuki Swift Sport
Suzuki reveals first picture of hot hatch ahead of Frankfurt show
Budget hot hatch set for debut at Frankfurt Motor Show
SUZUKI has revealed the first official image of its next hot hatchback, the all-new Swift Sport, which will make its full debut at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show.
Even though the company unveiled the new model, it’s keeping all of the key details under wraps for now, so we’ll have to wait for official word from Suzuki on confirmation of the powertrain, price and on-sale date.
However, the newcomer should stay true to the previous-generation car’s role of providing a junior hot hatch experience on a budget. It’ll serve as a rival for the likes of the upcoming 197bhp Ford Fiesta ST and Volkswagen Polo GTI, but undercut them on price.
We expect the Swift Sport to sit broadly in line with the outgoing model in terms of performance and make use of a new downsized turbocharged engine. Auto Express understands the 138bhp 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo found in the Vitara S will be fitted under the bonnet; a 134bhp 1.6-litre naturally aspirated unit powers the current model.
While the new engine would only add another 4bhp to the total output, a substantial torque boost in tandem with the new car’s overall reduction in weight should improve performance. Better fuel economy is also expected.
Suzuki has issued only this one image of the Swift Sport. It shows a fresh front bumper with large, aggressive cuts, a new front grille and a small front splitter, giving the car’s face a sportier character, while new side skirts and large diamond-cut alloy wheels are also fitted. We’re still waiting for a picture of the car’s rear end. Inside we expect a mild makeover to indicate the newcomer’s performance credentials, although it will also benefit from the latest Swift’s smart new interior and technology options, including a seveninch touchscreen infotainment system, a new 4.2-inch display embedded in the instrument panel, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
The new Swift is slightly more expensive than the previous model, so prices shouldn’t change too much for the flagship Sport, meaning a starting figure of around £16,000 is likely. Even though it’s making its debut at Frankfurt, first customer deliveries of the Sport in the UK aren’t expected until summer next year.
“As with previous model, it should offer junior hot hatch experience on a budget”