Introduction

The Suzuki Swift is one of those small cars that manages to pack a lot into its compact frame. Known for its affordability, the Swift is an excellent choice for drivers who want a reliable, stylish, and efficient supermini without breaking the bank. In this review, we explore the many reasons why this car stands out in the crowded small car market, despite its budget-friendly pricing.
With its combination of updated design, improved fuel efficiency, and a more spacious cabin, the Swift aims to appeal to drivers looking for quality at a lower price point. Let’s dive into why the Suzuki Swift is an affordable car that feels like anything but.

Design: Evolution, Not Revolution

Suzuki stayed true to the design of its predecessor, and while the changes to the exterior may seem minimal, this version is a notable upgrade. The Swift maintains its familiar cheeky, compact design, but it’s slightly bigger and sleeker, offering a more mature look. Curvier front and rear lights, along with a reshaped rear quarter window, give it a fresh appearance without straying too far from the successful formula of the previous model.
Despite being a supermini, the Swift manages to feel spacious, especially in the cabin. The car is 90mm longer and 5mm wider, which translates into more interior space. This extra room, particularly in the rear seats, makes the Swift one of the more spacious cars in its class, offering plenty of legroom for passengers.

Performance: Fun and Practical

While the design may not have radically changed, the Swift’s performance has certainly improved. The big news is the replacement of the old 1.3-liter engine with a more efficient 1.2-liter petrol engine that delivers 94 PS. Although you’ll need to rev the engine a bit higher to reach its best performance, it feels nippy and responsive, especially in urban driving conditions.
The 1.2-liter engine can take the Swift from 0 to 60 mph in around 12.2 seconds, which may not sound groundbreaking, but for a car of this size, it feels more than adequate. The variable valve timing system helps maintain decent performance while keeping emissions low. The Swift offers a good balance between fuel economy and fun, allowing you to enjoy driving on country roads or in the city.
If you’re after a bit more excitement, there’s also a sportier 1.6-liter version, the Swift Sport, with 125 PS. This offers a more engaging driving experience for those who want their supermini to deliver a touch of hot hatch fun. And for those who prefer a more relaxed driving style, Suzuki offers a four-speed automatic transmission option for the 1.2-liter engine.

Interior: Surprisingly Spacious

Step inside the Swift, and you’ll notice that Suzuki has made the cabin more spacious than before. The wheelbase is 50mm longer, which provides ample room for two adult passengers to sit comfortably in the rear. The headroom is generous, and the seats are supportive enough for longer trips.
Although the Swift is not a car you’d typically buy for its boot space, it does offer 204 liters of cargo room, which is reasonable for a car in this class. If you fold down the rear seats, this expands to 528 liters. However, the load area deck isn’t completely flat, so carrying bulkier items could be a challenge.
Suzuki has also thought about practical storage options inside the cabin, with bottle holders in every door, a decently sized glove box, and ample storage space in the center console. The driving position is easily adjustable, and the deeper windows provide good visibility.

Running Costs: Affordable and Efficient

One of the main reasons to consider the Suzuki Swift is its low running costs. Suzuki has managed to make this version of the Swift more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, thanks to engine improvements. The 1.2-liter petrol version delivers an impressive 56.5 miles per gallon on the combined cycle and emits just 116 grams of CO2 per kilometer, making it one of the more economical choices in the supermini segment.
If you opt for the 1.3-liter diesel version, you’ll enjoy even better fuel efficiency, with 67 miles per gallon on the combined cycle and just 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer. This diesel engine offers a great option for those prioritizing fuel savings over performance.

Pricing and Value for Money

Suzuki has priced the Swift to be competitive in the supermini market, with the starting price falling in the range of £10,000 to £14,000. The five-door model adds an extra £500 to the price, but even with that, it’s still a bargain when compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta or the Renault Clio.
For instance, a Ford Fiesta with less power than the Swift will still cost you about £500 more. Similarly, a Renault Clio with lower power also comes with a price tag £1,000 higher than the Swift. And while the Vauxhall Corsa is a popular choice, it too costs more and delivers less power.
Despite the competitive pricing, Suzuki hasn’t skimped on the equipment. Even the base models come with features like electric front windows, remote central locking, electric mirrors, and a quality MP3-compatible CD stereo with USB connectivity and steering wheel controls. Safety features are also impressive, with the Swift including seven airbags and ESP stability control as standard.

Conclusion: A Budget Car That Doesn’t Feel Like One

The Suzuki Swift offers exceptional value for money, combining stylish design, practical features, and fuel efficiency into an affordable package. It doesn’t just feel like a budget car—it feels like a smart choice for drivers who want to balance affordability with quality.
After experiencing the Swift firsthand, I’ve realized how it holds its own against more expensive competitors. I also came across someone who shared a similar experience, and they, too, were impressed with the Swift’s all-around performance. If you’re interested in learning more, check out this video: Suzuki Swift 2010-2017 Full Review.