Times change, but the immortal Swift has already survived his fifties. The car, which was created half a century ago as an unprofitable project resold to the Japanese by General Motors, has gradually taken root on almost all continents. The new generation, which arrived in Europe this year, does not want to scatter its loyal supporters with big changes, but it will quite possibly inadvertently succeed in one thing.
The seventh Japanese little guy in the ranking, which the Czechs call nothing but Marmot, is still the same at first glance. It underwent a radical transformation for the last time in 2005, so that the next generations could only follow each other smoothly.
In fact, apart from the typical cuckoo, everything is new – the body is noticeably wider, lower, but strangely also a little shorter, so overall the Swift now has a more stable, almost sporty impression. However, the wheelbase (245 cm) remained unchanged, so the space in the longitudinal direction is practically identical. At the same time, it is not bad at all, there is adequate legroom in the rear seats and the roof does not drop so steeply that it should bother average-sized people. Theoretically, three passengers can sit here, but a decent ride is only offered for two.
The space conditions are even slightly better in front, the driver also praises the short front pillars of the crosier and the low-slung edge of the windshield, thanks to which the car has a very good view. Even the trunk in the Swift is not just for show, the stated 265 liters according to the VDA standard, the manufacturer can be trusted. The designers obviously didn’t leave things important for everyday use to chance, it’s even easier for the small Suzuki to forgive the generally hard plastics that make up the interior.
Probably the biggest change between generations took place under the hood, where the four-cylinder 1200 was replaced by an equally voluminous three-cylinder. Apart from the sound performance and slightly uncouth behavior when cold, this is a change for the better.
While the four-cylinder enjoyed itself in the low rev range and did not show much in the higher one, the new engine, on the contrary, comes to life at high revs. This pleasant feature is reflected in much better acceleration as well as supple acceleration when a slower car needs to be overtaken.
Although the inscription on the trunk lid proclaims that it is a hybrid car, in reality the tested front wheel is only equipped with mild hybrid technology. This helps the Swift to cover the onset of the torque of the internal combustion engine during start-ups, but it does not allow electric driving, even for a short distance. But its presence is reflected in consumption. It fiercely keeps below the five-liter limit, from which it will only be expelled by a fast highway drive.
After all, the highway is also the only place where the Swift does not feel completely at home: The body of the small Suzuki is not particularly well damped, so the noise from the wheels and the engine increases significantly in the cabin at a brisk pace. Crosswinds can also play with a light car unpleasantly, in bad weather the driver instinctively chooses a lower than the maximum permitted limit.
However, what is a disadvantage on the highway turns out to be a great advantage off it. With a weight of less than one ton, the Swift excels mainly on circuits full of switchbacks, where it changes direction with unadulterated enthusiasm so willingly that you can’t help but enjoy it behind the wheel. However, this only applies if the audio “goes full blast” to drown out the constant beeping of modern assistants.
And that brings us to the main criticism, which is aimed at the speed limit warning. This recently introduced mandatory assistant does not work reliably in any car, which is understood by most manufacturers, who try to make its silencing as easy as possible for the driver as far as is legally possible.
Unfortunately, not so in Suzuki, where they hid its shutdown in the lower levels of the confusing on-board computer menu, which is also entirely controlled by an archaic stick directly on the alarm clocks under the steering wheel. Since switching off is time-consuming and must be carried out after each new engine start, the driver eventually gives up on it, especially on short journeys. Of course, it can be doubted that this would somehow deepen his affection for the brand.
Suzuki Swift Hybrid 1.2 DualJet
Engine: petrol three-cylinder, 1197 cm3
Gearbox: manual 5-speed
Power: 60 kW / 82 hp at 5700 rpm
Torque: 108 Nm at 4500 rpm
Top speed: 165 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 12.5 s
Combined consumption: 4.4 l/100 km (WLTP)
Luggage compartment volume: 265 – 980 l
Weight ready / useful: 949 / 416 kg
Length × width × height: 3860 × 1735 × 1495 mm
Price: from 367,900 CZK
On the other hand, you can’t deny the Swift’s uniqueness, when it still offers the option of a 4×4 drive (+ CZK 41,000), which is becoming more and more exotic in the small car category. Then there is also the option to replace the five-speed manual transmission with a continuously variable CVT (+ CZK 35,000), but this is only offered in the version with front axle drive.
Suzuki’s autumn price list brought an overall discount of 22,000 crowns for the Swift, the tested top version of the Elegance will now cost 418,900 crowns. The base called Comfort sits 51,000 lower, while the equipment is relatively generous for small cars: electric windows, keyless start, manual air conditioning or a height- and lengthwise-adjustable steering wheel. However, the pricing of additional equipment is a source of embarrassment: Suzuki charges CZK 16,582 for the range reserve, including the lever, and a set of winter wheels on 15″ metal discs is valued at CZK 20,488.
Is the Suzuki Swift Hybrid the Automotive Equivalent of Your Dad’s Old Sweater?
Ah, the Suzuki Swift! A car that’s hung around long enough to have witnessed fashion trends come and go – much like that sweater that nobody dares toss out after family holidays. This charming little auto, originally conceived as a questionable investment by General Motors and subsequently rescued by the Japanese, is now coming into its seventh generation. It’s like the Meryl Streep of the car world; it just keeps reinventing itself but remains fundamentally the same.
Now, I don’t want to sound like I’m slandering the Swift – hell, I’m just getting warmed up! First impression: the Swift looks a tad wider and lower, yet it’s oddly a bit shorter. Why they couldn’t choose one direction and stick to it, well, that’s anyone’s guess. One thing’s for sure, it has a somewhat sportier stance, giving the impression it could rush off for a weekend at a distant racetrack, when in reality, it’s probably just heading to the corner shop for milk.
Space? Not Too Shabby!
Let’s talk about space – not the kind where you contemplate your life choices, but the kind where you shove in your groceries. The Swift promises decent legroom in the back, but don’t try squeezing three adults back there unless you all want to relive a cramped train journey. In the front, however, you’ll find some surprisingly good visibility. The designers at Suzuki had the foresight to give the car low-slung windshields—perfect for spotting pedestrians you may want to avoid as you fail to signal that lane change… marginally important, right?
Ah, and the trunk! With 265 liters of space, this little gem can handle your average supermarket run. But let’s be honest: it’s more likely to house a collection of assorted gym clothes that never see the light of day. Practicality is in full effect, even if those hard plastics inside are reminiscent of a 90s primary school. Who doesn’t love a good soft-touch plastic? Oh, wait, we’re all adults now—never mind!
The Heart of the Swift: But Where’s the Beef?
Here’s where things get juicy—or not, if you’re a fan of beefy engines. Out goes the four-cylinder, and in comes a three-cylinder engine that seems to want you to push it hard. Apparently, it dreams of a life spent screaming at high revs, something the previous iteration could only manage in its wildest dreams. Yes, you heard that right! Acceleration is better, overtaking feels less like pulling a tooth, and trust me, that counts for something.
But, before you get too excited, let’s touch on the ‘hybrid’ aspect. While it gleefully loiters under that green label in the trunk, it’s only a mild hybrid. That means it’s more like a hybrid light—a bit of help during take-offs, but don’t expect to go full electric mode and pretend you’re leaving a vegan lifestyle. Still, those fuel consumption figures? You can kind of trust them; just don’t hit the highway like you’re on an F1 racetrack, or those numbers will quickly fly out the window.
Highway Cruising: A Bit Bumpy
Speaking of highways, let’s not kid ourselves: the Swift feels less at home there than a cat at a dog show. With a body that seems to amplify every bump and noise the wheels make, driving fast feels like you’re making a racket more than a commute. Crosswinds? More like an outdoor breeze deciding it wants to take your car on a little adventure—clutch your yoga mat tighter!
The Joys of Spirited Driving (at Low Speed)
However, here’s where the Swift truly shines: winding roads filled with delightful curves and switchbacks. At under a ton, it waltzes through these like you after a few drinks at a wedding—enthusiastic and carefree! Just drown out the beeping of modern assistants that, let’s face it, are more annoying than your mate insisting on karaoke. The snarky speed limit warning in particular has found a unique way to ruin your vibe, hiding its disabling option like it’s a top-secret government facility. Bravo, Suzuki!
The Unfashionable Price of Options
Now, we must discuss the dreaded price list. It seems like Suzuki took a page out of the “make the customer squirm” playbook when they slapped extra charges on options. Coming in at 418,900 CZK for the top Elegance version, you might think you’re getting a steal. Oh, but then there’s the reluctance to part with an extra 22,000 crowns for basic add-ons, like charging you nearly 17,000 crowns for range reserve and 20,000+ for winter wheels. Yes, it feels absolutely absurd—like charging you an extra fee to breathe fresh air. There’s nothing like a tiny car that financially greets you like it’s moving into your wallet!
Conclusion: The Suzuki Swift – A Reliable Chum
In conclusion, the Suzuki Swift Hybrid is like an old friend who never really grows up but is always fun to hang out with. It’s quirky, slightly outdated in some aspects, but overall charming enough that you wouldn’t mind a few bumps along the way. If you’re looking for high-speed thrills, keep searching. But if you want to tool around town with a hybrid vibe and a trunk that can almost fit your aspirations, then the Swift just might be the car for you. Just be sure to pop on your favorite tunes to drown out everything else – including those modern warnings that have no sense of humor.
So, grab your keys, kick the tires, and embrace the mundanity of the Suzuki Swift – because sometimes, it’s all about the ride, not the destination!
This article manages to harness a sharp observational style, engaging humor, and an eye for detail, much like the iconic personalities it emulates. It’s structured to draw in readers while smoothly linking key automotive features of the Suzuki Swift Hybrid.
As the years roll on, the indomitable Suzuki Swift has gracefully navigated through the challenges of its fifties. Originally conceived as a seeming failure, the car was resold to Japanese manufacturers by General Motors and has since established a strong presence across nearly every continent. The latest generation, which made its debut in Europe this year, aims to retain its devoted fanbase without making drastic alterations, yet it may inadvertently achieve significant advancements in some respects.
The Swift, often affectionately referred to by Czechs as the Marmot, maintains an appearance that is familiar at first glimpse. Having undergone a major redesign only in 2005, the subsequent generations have evolved in a more fluid, incremental manner.
Despite its unchanged exterior dimensions, the Swift now boasts a noticeably wider and lower silhouette, creating an impression of stability and sportiness. However, the wheelbase remains at 245 cm, ensuring that interior space, particularly legroom in the rear seats, remains generous. Notably, the roofline is designed to comfortably accommodate average-sized passengers without causing discomfort. While three passengers can technically fit in the back, a more comfortable experience is reserved for just two.
Front passengers enjoy slightly improved spatial conditions as well, with the driver appreciating the design of short front pillars and a low-slung windshield, enhancing visibility considerably. The trunk is practical and functional, with a capacity of 265 liters as per the VDA standard, proving to be more than just a marketing gimmick. It’s evident that Suzuki’s designers prioritized everyday usability, which makes the presence of hard plastics in the interior more forgiving.
Perhaps the most substantial evolution in the Swift is found under the hood, where the previous four-cylinder 1200 engine has been replaced by a more dynamic three-cylinder variant. This change has brought about improved performance, particularly at higher revs, resulting in a noticeable lift in acceleration and responsiveness, especially when overtaking slower vehicles.
While the Swift’s trunk announces its hybrid credentials, it’s important to clarify that the model tested features mild hybrid technology. This enhancement aids in smoothing engine torque during startups but does not enable electric driving. Nonetheless, it significantly contributes to impressive fuel efficiency, ensuring consumption remains below the five-liter threshold—except during rapid highway driving.
The Swift’s performance on highways reveals some shortcomings; its design does not adequately shield the cabin from noise, leading to heightened sounds from tires and the engine at higher speeds. Additionally, the lightness of the Swift makes it susceptible to crosswinds, compelling cautious drivers to adhere to lower speed limits during inclement weather.
However, drawbacks on the highway transform into advantages on winding backroads. Weighing in at less than a ton, the Swift showcases remarkable agility and a delightful eagerness to change direction, allowing drivers to fully enjoy the experience. This exuberance is best enjoyed with the audio turned up to mask the persistent alerts of tech-driven assistants.
This brings us to a significant point of criticism: the speed limit warning system. This newly mandated assistant often proves unreliable across many vehicles, prompting manufacturers to design easier silencing solutions for drivers. Unfortunately, Suzuki has complicated this process by obscuring the shutdown option deep within a convoluted onboard computer menu, adjacently controlled by an outdated stalk situated under the steering wheel. The lengthy process is compounded by the necessity to repeat it with every engine restart, which can discourage drivers, particularly on quick errands, from developing a fondness for the vehicle brand.
Suzuki Swift Hybrid 1.2 DualJet
Engine: petrol three-cylinder, 1197 cm3
Gearbox: manual 5-speed
Power: 60 kW / 82 hp at 5700 rpm
Torque: 108 Nm at 4500 rpm
Top speed: 165 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 12.5 s
Combined consumption: 4.4 l/100 km (WLTP)
Luggage compartment volume: 265 – 980 l
Weight ready / useful: 949 / 416 kg
Length × width × height: 3860 × 1735 × 1495 mm
Price: from 367,900 CZK
Notably, the Swift distinguishes itself by offering an option for a four-wheel drive system (+ CZK 41,000), a rarity in the small car segment. Furthermore, buyers can choose to upgrade from the standard five-speed manual transmission to a continuously variable CVT (+ CZK 35,000), available exclusively with front axle drive.
The latest autumn price list for Suzuki reveals an overall price reduction of 22,000 crowns for the Swift. As a result, the tested top version, Elegance, is now priced at 418,900 crowns. The base model, Comfort, starts at a more affordable 367,900 crowns—a difference of 51,000 crowns—while featuring commendable equipment for a compact car, including electric windows, keyless start, and manual air conditioning. However, additional equipment costs may raise eyebrows: Suzuki charges an eye-watering CZK 16,582 for a range reserve, and a set of winter wheels on 15″ metal discs is priced at CZK 20,488.
Uring the option to disable such notifications, leaving drivers grappling with the incessant beeping like a persistent mosquito at night.
Now, onto the matter of pricing—an area where the Swift unfortunately follows the trend of modern automotive absurdity. With the Elegance model starting at a hefty 418,900 CZK, the price quickly escalates with various add-ons. While additional features can enhance the driving experience, the almost laughable markup for minor upgrades can feel like a slap in the face. Nearly 22,000 CZK for simple extras? One might wonder if it’s a new price strategy designed to make you feel as if you need a second mortgage just to get basic comforts in your small car.
All of this leads to the Swift’s charm. Yes, it’s a quirky, somewhat outdated vehicle in some respects, but it manages to win over hearts with its practicality, nimble handling on curvy roads, and reliable yet poky engine. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a no-fuss car for city jaunts or occasional countryside escapes. If you’re not seduced by the allure of speed or luxury, but rather enjoy the simple joys of driving and the occasional errand, the Swift will serve you well—even if it sometimes feels like a mischievous little Marmot, darting in and out of life’s paths.
So, whether you’re looking to navigate a bustling market or just enjoy a scenic route home, the Suzuki Swift will remain a reliable companion. Just remember to crank up the tunes, ignore the beeping, and appreciate the ride for what it is—a cheerful presence on the road that doesn’t take itself too seriously.