NIFTY SWIFTY
Stylish new Suzuki supermini proves good things come in small packages
In my book at least, Suzuki’s little Swift just happened to be the best-looking model in the supermini class.
Sadly, all good things finally come to an end and, in June, the Swift will be no more as it is phased out for a new model.
But the good news is the replacement looks just as good and, with a raft of added features and driver aids, it lifts the bar for small cars to yet another level.
Once again, it looks great from any angle, with its low-slung stance, short overhangs and low roof line. Slightly shorter than the old model, its extended wheelbase adds to the interior dimensions, making the cabin roomier and more comfortable for occupants. The boot space is also increased by some 20 per cent and now offers a more useful 264 litres.
Under the bonnet sits either Suzuki’s proven entry- level, four-pot, 1.2-litre, 89bhp Dualjet petrol engine good for 65.7mpg with emissions of 98g/km or a new 110bhp, one-litre, threecyl inder Boosterjet turbo- charged petrol unit which pumps out 109bhp and returns 61.4mpg with emissions set at 104g/km.
These little power plants are lively and quick enough off the mark, completing the standing to 62mph dash in 11.9 seconds and 10.6 seconds respectively.
They are also available with Suzuki’s SHVS hybrid system which feeds a lithium-ion battery through regenerative braking to provide an added power boost when starting out or during acceleration. The Boosterjet SHVS was the model I put to test in hills around Monte Carlo. The torquey little unit was more than keen and eager to show its pace, even when negotiating pretty steep slopes coupled with hairpin bends. The usual deep throaty growl you get from most modern three- cyl inder engines when under the cosh also provided music to the ears but, while travelling on less demanding sections, the Swift was as quiet as a mouse. It is widely believed the range will start around the £10,500 mark for entry-level 1.2-litre SZ3, working up to around £14,000 or so for the fullyloaded one- litre Boosterjet SZ5 Hybrid, complete with sat nav, adaptive cruise control, LED lights, autonomous emergency braking, keyless entry, electric windows, rear parking camera and lane departure warning system. This funky new Swift will give its competitors a run for their money.