Japan’s award-winning Suzuki Swift’s launch gave the media insight to understand why the popular 4th generation Swift has sold over 9 million cars since 2004.
By Rubin van Niekerk
Currently in South Africa it is also one of our top ten sellers as a model. Dynamic design, lively performance, and exceptional value for money, ensures that the Swift consistently wins awards and accolades globally. It has also just won the prestigious 2025 Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) Car of The Year award for the fourth time.
It builds on the strengths of its best-selling predecessors with fresh exterior styling, a revamped interior, advanced digitisation and upgraded safety features. City drivers seeking efficiency and style or car enthusiasts attracted to fun handling, would appreciate the Suzuki Swift’s impressive package that makes it a perennial favourite.
It is more frugal to run than ever before thanks to Suzuki’s thrifty new three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine with 60kW at 5,700rpm and 112Nm or torque at 4,300rpm. Lighter and more compact than the outgoing four-cylinder motor, it offers good power right through the rev range courtesy multipoint fuel injection and four valves per cylinder. We achieved a realistic fuel consumption figure of 5.8l/100km.
Depending on the model grade, there is a five-speed manual (with an Engine Auto Stop/Start system) or continuously variable transmission (CVT).
We loved the youthful and energetic exterior styling with its evolutionary change that ensures that the instantly recognisable shape of prior Swift models would appeal to new buyers.
Restyled headlight clusters with L-shaped signature lamps, an oval radiator grille with a piano black finish and a muscular new bumper improves the aesthetic appeal. Blacked-out A/B-pillars remain as elements of the ‘floating roof’ design, while the wide grille and sculpted headlamps contribute to its aggressive appearance.
A new wrap-around dashboard design with horizontal air vents and centre controls are angled towards the driver for improved ergonomics. The stylish metre instrument cluster provides a wide range of information at a glance, including average and current fuel consumption and driving range.
Ergonomic seats provide good support and rear seat passengers have ample legroom and headroom, but taller passengers may find the headspace slightly constrained due to the sloping roofline. The cargo area, at 265 litres, is practical for daily errands, and the 60:40 rear seats can be folded to accommodate larger items expanding cargo space to 580l.
At the launch mountain passes with a sweeping string of corners revealed the Swift’s dynamic character. The latest light and rigid ‘HEARTECT’ platform ensure class-leading handling dynamics due to being both light and extremely rigid. Weighing between 908kg and 945kg only ensures quick acceleration and better responsiveness.
The frugal Swift offers excellent pricing, and its popularity ensures good future value.
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL manual: R219,900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ manual: R239,900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ CVT: R259,900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX manual: R264,900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GLX CVT: R284,900
Pricing includes a two-year/30,000km service plan and five-year/200,000km promotional warranty.
