The brand new Suzuki Swift is a popular and well-regarded entry-level hatchback in South Africa, known for its
budget-friendly price, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. It consistently ranks among the best-selling cars
in the country, praised for its nimble handling and practical design, especially for city driving. While not a
performance car, the Swift delivers a reliable and comfortable experience for everyday use, particularly in
urban environments.
Key highlights of the 2025 Suzuki Swift in South Africa:
Budget-friendly price – The Swift is a highly competitive option in the affordable car market.
Nimble handling – Its lightweight build and responsive steering make it a fun and easy car to drive around
town.
Practical design – The Swift’s spacious cabin and ample storage make it a practical choice for everyday
use.
Reliability – The Swift has a reputation for being a dependable and reliable car, with many owners
praising its long-term durability.
Popularity – Its consistently high sales figures in South Africa reflect its popularity among local drivers.
Driving Experience
The 2025 Swift’s 1.2-litre engine provides adequate power for city driving and commuting, but it’s not
designed for high-speed performance. However, the three-cylinder petrol engine’s 60kW and 112Nm of
torque provide enough power to get by swiftly with the new Swift. The brand pairs the new engine with a
5-speed manual gearbox sourced from AISIN, which sends power to the front wheels. The new engine,
codenamed the Z12E, achieves a thermal efficiency of up to 40% while being lighter, having lower
emissions and better low-end torque than the K12 from the outgoing model!
The five-speed manual gearbox is smooth and easy to operate, making it a good choice for those who
prefer manual transmissions.
The raised seating position offers good visibility, and the car’s lightweight nature contributes to its nimble
handling.
While fuel economy is a strong point, real-world fuel consumption may differ slightly from the claimed
figures of of 4.4 L/100km, as per the terrain and other conditions during driving.
Overall, the 2025 Suzuki Swift is a strong contender in the South African car market, offering a blend of
affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency that makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Performance
The 3rd-generation Swift (excluding the Swift Sport) produced 61kW at 6 000 rpm and 113Nm at 4 200
rpm, while the latest Swift delivers 60 kW at 5 700 rpm and 112 Nm of torque at 4 300 rpm. It may not be
as rev-happy as its predecessor, but the (5-speed-) gearbox mapping has been masterfully executed, so
you’re not perpetually swapping cogs. Performance, in general, is nippy enough for city and highway
driving, and the three-cylinder’s cheeky growl adds to the Swift’s character, making it feel more sporty.
Price
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL manual: R219,900
Suzuki Swift 1.2 GL+ manual: R239,900 (Also read our review for this variant)
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 a five-year/200,000km promotional warranty.
(Reach out to your Suzuki Dealership of choice to determine the fine print.)
