While compact SUVs are currently dominating in the car market with new almost all the brands releasing a new model every couple of months at very competitive prices. There are also some idem gems in the shapes of the little hatch which are also size and budget-friendly to some consumers’ preferences. I got a chance of testing one of Suzuki’s most reputable compact hatch models and here is a summary of my experience with it.
Quick Fact:
Model: Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX
Engine: 1.2 litre Four-cylinder Naturally aspirated Petrol
Power: 65kW & 115 N.m
Fuel consumption: 4.9L/100 Km (Claimed)
Luggage capacity: 286L
Price: R222 900
Exterior
In its recent update, the compact little hatch now boasts a refreshed look including a blacked-out honeycomb pattern grille with chrome bits accents, as well as with stubble curves and lines, the dual body tone with black highlights making it standout. 14-inch steel wheels are fitted standard on the GA derivative while both the GL and range-topping GLX derivative rolls on dual-tone (silver and black) 15-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Modestly spacious and comfortable, Although its budget-friendly price, the Swift cabin feels and looks well put together. With comfortable cloth upholstery seats and great driving position thanks to the height-adjustable driver seat and tilt/telescopic steering rack.
The GLX derivative boasts a 7-inch touch screen infotainment system that sports Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity using a USB Cable. For entertainment, you can play music from your smartphone by Bluetooth or using the AUX or USB port. Which can be operated directly on the screen or for easy use, you can navigate using the mounted controls on the leather-wrapped steering wheel. The swift GLX also boasts dual-zone climate control with a digital temperature screen as well as a reverse-view camera along with a couple of features that make the experience a little more interesting such as keyless entry, push to start, reverse camera as well as a color-full semi-digital instrument cluster that boosts the interior ambiance.
Practicality
As compact as it is, the Suzuki Swift offers a decent amount of storage compartments throughout the cabin, on the door bin, and glove box. As well as 286L worth of luggage capacity which is enough for one large and one small suitcase. Meaning it will handle weekly groceries trips just fine. The luggage scape can also be expanded further up to about 950L by folding the rear bench to its 60/40 split configuration for long item carriage such as surfboard…
After a quick sit behind yourself test, I found that the rear passenger space is adequate and will comfortably accommodate 2 adults with a fair amount of headroom, but slightly tight in terms of legroom which I suspect will be a struggling point for taller individuals.
Safety
In terms of safety, the Suzuki Swift is shipped with ABS, EBD with brake assist along with stability control, and two airbags both for the driver and front passenger. ISOFIX child seat anchorage points are also available on the rear outer seats.
The Drive
Who would have thought that one can have so much fun in a small powered car like this one? Well, I didn’t expect that.
The Swift is no hot-hatch or athletic as its sporty sibling Swift Sport but share quite a couple of similarities, such as its lightweight structure (under 1Ton) which makes it quite dynamic and enjoyable to drive in town and even on some back roads. Using a fuel-efficient and peppy 1.2litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, developing 65kW and 115 Nm of torque which is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, sending all its power to the front wheels.
The combination works without any stress, every shift feels right in place with a great gear ratio between each gear, the manual transmission feels sleek and easy to operate. One downside, its lack of torque for steep inclines drives, where I found myself working the transmission in order to go a lower and more torquey to have an effortless momentum, this can be quite a laborious task, but a little bit of workout won’t hurt. The Swift is also offered with a 4-speed automatic transmission just in case you enjoy one of those available (at R234,900) along with a confident ride quality, tackling road imperfection smoothly, and maintaining a stable composure even at high speed or windy conditions.
A 5.1L/100km average fuel consumption was achieved during my time with the swift GLX, which means with its 42 fuel tank filled to the top, the swift can travel about 820km before needing a refuel this makes it very economical for daily commutes.
Verdict
The stylish compact little hatch is peppy, easy to drive around town, and long distances. It packs a very good amount of useful features ticking all the right boxes for a budget-friendly car that I believe will be suitable for students, young starting professionals, or small families that are looking into something compact, fuel-efficient at a price that won’t break the bank.
Pricing
All Suzuki Swift comes shipped out with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty as well as a 2-year /30 000 km service plan.
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GA MT R 184 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL MT R 203 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL AMT R 218 900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX MT R 222 900 (tested)
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX AMT R 238 900
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