The Suzuki Swift is a practical car built for fun as well if that’s important to you as a city sleeker. It’s a small car but carries so much appeal on many levels. The low price, great handling and smart styling help to set it apart in its category.
The Swift does not shy away from a challenge, because away from the city it performs just fine heading to the countryside, a commendable effort for the little lady.
The 2016 version has upped its game across its model range of GL, GLS and Sport variants. On the outside, the front grille has been redesigned along, while the GLS model gets LED daytime running lights too. The GL receives a new cooling vent surround along with a high-mounted LED third brake light. The GL model’s wheel caps have been redesigned, as have the GLS’s alloy wheels. There is also the option of a new exterior colour called Luminous Blue Metallic.
The GL comes with power steering, a height adjustable steering wheel and driver’s seat, electric windows all-round, remote central locking, air conditioning, electric mirrors as well as ABS brakes and dual front airbags.
The GLS comes with the option of a manual or automatic transmission. There are also alloy wheels and front fog lights surrounded by LEDs. The height and reach adjustable steering wheel is trimmed in leather and features sound system and cruise-control switchgear. The GLS features side and curtain airbags in addition to the front airbags. It also benefits from climate control, a USB port as well as a keyless operating system.
However, consumers will be happy to know that there have been a few additions to the standard specification list. The interior has received a few updates, with the GLS models getting Bluetooth as standard. The system allows for hands-free telephony as well as audio streaming. The GLS also gets cruise control, which can be operated from the steering wheel. Both variants receive updated seats that make use of a better fabric.
The powertrain remains unchanged, with the same 70kW/130Nm 1.4-litre four-cylinder motor doing duty in the GL and GLS models. Fuel economy is quoted at an impressive 5.5 litres/100km, with 132g/km of CO2 emissions for the manual. The automatic variant’s figures creep up to 6.2 litres/100km and 147g/km, respectively.
The flagship Sport model also receives Bluetooth and cruise control. Mechanically the vehicle is unchanged and still features the lively 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 100kW and 160Nm.
Prices
hatch 1.2 GA R149 900
DZire sedan 1.2 GA R153 900
hatch 1.2 GL R164 300
DZire sedan 1.2 GL R167 900
hatch 1.2 GL auto R181 800
DZire sedan 1.2 GL auto R184 900
hatch 1.4 GLS R222 900
hatch 1.4 GLS auto R239 900
hatch 1.6 Sport R264 900
The Suzuki Swift is covered by a 3-year/100 000km warranty, supported by 6-year corrosion cover. A 3-year/60 000km service plan is standard, as is a 3-year AA roadside assistance plan
Suzuki Swift ups its game
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