Introduction
The Suzuki Swift Sport has long been a well-kept secret among hot hatch enthusiasts. It’s not the most powerful car in its segment, but it’s agile, fun to drive, and delivers an exciting experience for a fraction of the price of its competitors. With this third-generation model, Suzuki aims to broaden the appeal by offering improved performance, lower running costs, and even sharper handling. Let’s dive into why the Swift Sport deserves more attention.
Old-School Driving Thrills with a Modern Twist
Hot hatches were once all about simple driving pleasure—lightweight, naturally aspirated engines, and nimble handling. That formula has evolved, with many modern hot hatches relying on high-tech features like electronic stability systems, four-wheel drive, and turbocharged engines. But Suzuki’s Swift Sport stays true to its roots, offering a refreshing alternative in a segment crowded with high-power, high-cost competitors.
This Swift Sport isn’t about outright speed or excessive gadgetry. Instead, it’s about balance, and thanks to its light weight and compact dimensions, it delivers an exhilarating drive without the need for massive horsepower. The 1.6-liter engine produces 134 brake horsepower, which might not sound like much, but combined with its light curb weight of just over a ton, it’s enough to keep things lively. The Swift Sport goes from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 121 mph—not blistering, but certainly enough to make it fun to drive.
Performance That’s All About the Experience
The real magic of the Suzuki Swift Sport lies in how it feels on the road. This isn’t a car designed for straight-line speed. It’s meant for twisty back roads where quick, responsive handling shines. The steering is sharp and direct, 20% more responsive than its predecessor, and the suspension has been stiffened for better cornering. Whether you’re an experienced driver or a novice, you’ll find the Swift Sport engaging and confidence-inspiring.
Suzuki has retained the manual gearbox for this model, and it’s a joy to use. The six-speed transmission feels slick and encourages you to keep the engine in its sweet spot. You have to work the gearbox and rev the engine to really get the most out of it, but that’s part of the appeal. This isn’t a car that does everything for you—it rewards driver engagement.
Practical Enough for Everyday Use
While the Swift Sport is all about fun, Suzuki hasn’t sacrificed practicality. The three-door body style provides decent space in the front, though the rear seats are best suited for short trips or smaller passengers. The boot offers 211 liters of space, which isn’t huge but is more than you’ll get in rivals like the Fiat 500 Abarth or Renault Twingo.
For those who do use the car for longer journeys, the Swift Sport offers a surprisingly comfortable ride on the motorway. Despite the stiffened suspension, it doesn’t feel overly harsh, and the addition of a six-speed gearbox makes highway driving more relaxing. The engine remains refined when you’re not pushing it to its limits, making this hot hatch a viable option for everyday use, not just weekend fun.
Understated Yet Sporty Design
Visually, the Swift Sport strikes the right balance between sporty aggression and understated style. The front end is dominated by large high-intensity discharge headlamps and a deep front spoiler. The rear features sleek combination lamps and a subtle spoiler, all sitting atop stylish 17-inch alloy wheels. While it doesn’t shout for attention like some of its competitors, the Swift Sport looks every bit the part of a capable hot hatch.
Inside, the cabin is driver-focused. The leather-trimmed sport steering wheel feels great in hand, and the sport seats provide ample lateral support for spirited driving. While the interior materials may not match the premium feel of pricier models like the Mini Cooper, they’re more than acceptable for a car in this price range. The standard equipment list is impressive, too, with features like air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless entry, and a six-speaker stereo system all included.
Affordability Without Compromise
One of the biggest selling points of the Suzuki Swift Sport is its price. With a starting price of around £14,000, it undercuts many of its rivals while offering more equipment and better performance. For example, a Vauxhall Corsa 1.4 SRI with just 100 PS costs about £2,000 more, despite being slower and less engaging to drive. Other competitors, like the Renault Twingo and Fiat 500 Abarth, may offer similar levels of performance, but they’re either more expensive, smaller, or less practical.
In terms of running costs, the Swift Sport holds its own. Suzuki has managed to trim the CO2 emissions from the previous model, bringing them down to 147 g/km. Fuel economy is also improved, with the car now achieving 44.1 miles per gallon on the combined cycle. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient hot hatch in its class, it’s competitive when you consider its performance and the fun it offers.
A Well-Equipped Hot Hatch
Despite its modest price, the Swift Sport comes generously equipped. Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, privacy glass, and sport seats. Safety-wise, Suzuki hasn’t skimped either, with twin front, side, and curtain airbags, as well as electronic stability control and a driver’s knee bag all included. There’s even cruise control—an unusual but welcome addition in a hot hatch.
For those who prioritize safety, the Swift Sport delivers. The electronic assistance for braking and traction ensures you stay in control, even when pushing the car to its limits. With a high level of equipment and a focus on safety, the Swift Sport is just as practical as it is fun to drive.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Swift Sport is an often overlooked gem in the world of hot hatches. It may not boast the most horsepower or the highest top speed, but it makes up for it with lightweight agility and an engaging driving experience. If you’ve forgotten about the Swift Sport or never considered it, you owe yourself a test drive. You’ll find old-school GTI fun without the old-school drawbacks, and at a price that makes it accessible to a wider audience.
For those seeking a hot hatch that delivers thrills without breaking the bank, the Suzuki Swift Sport is a perfect choice. It’s affordable, practical, and most importantly, it’s an absolute blast to drive. Check out this full review to dive deeper into the Swift Sport: Suzuki Swift Sport 2011-2017 | Should YOU buy one?.