Suzuki Swift review

The Suzuki Swift is an appealing alternative to the likes of the Hyundai i20, Kia Rio and Toyota Yaris, that delivers good economy, particularly from its punchy three-cylinder engine, and solid build quality.

However, that doesn’t mean that it’s able to challenge the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Skoda Fabia at the top of the supermini class; put simply, there are better-finished, more comfortable and more refined offerings on the market. Since prices for this Swift have been nudged upwards, it can no longer rely on ‘bargain’ appeal either – unfortunately the same is true for the Swift Sport flagship.

While the Suzuki Swift Sport has gone down as one of the best small hot hatchbacks for sale in the UK, the standard Swift is more of a left-field choice in the supermini market. The Suzuki used to be able to trade on its competitive pricing, but the Japanese-built car is no longer the bargain it once was. Still, it’s a decent enough small car and will appeal to those looking for something that’s fun to drive, while the Swift 4×4 model is an interesting proposition.

The latest Suzuki Swift arrived in 2017 with an evolutionary shape (albeit now five-door only), more kit and additional space when compared to its predecessor, while a facelift in 2020 saw the addition of LED lights, a revised grille and updated tech and safety kit. The current model line-up comprises SZ-L, SZ-T, and SZ5 models with the Swift Sport at the top of the range.

Competition in the supermini class is very strong. Sporty handling is one of the Suzuki’s plus points, and other cars that can match it include the all-conquering Ford Fiesta, the Mazda 2 and SEAT Ibiza. Elsewhere, the Skoda Fabia and VW Polo are also competitive, and the Citroen C3 offers comfort and a unique style of its own. The Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio offer reliable, well equipped transport, while the Vauxhall Corsa, Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 are all fighting for sales.

Power for the latest Swift comes from a 82bhp 1.2 Dualjet four-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, while the SZ5 model is offered with four-wheel-drive. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, with a CVT auto transmission available for the SZ-T and SZ5 (front-wheel-drive) versions. The Sport model gets a 127bhp 1.4-litre turbo four-cylinder unit with a six-speed manual ‘box.

Prices for the Swift range start from around £15,500, while opting for more performance with the Sport model will cost you more than £22,500

For an alternative review of the Suzuki Swift, visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk…

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