The new evolution of the Suzuki Swift has been revealed in its European form at the 87th Geneva International Motor Show. The all-new Swift aims to provide a heightened driving experience through the use of a new generation platform, edgy design and superior safety inclusions.
Designers had set themselves the challenge to create a bold new Swift that stimulates the senses, and from initial accounts, they have delivered. The exterior now exudes a sporty new look with the illusion of a floating roof created by the use of blacked-out pillars. Add to this streamlined pillar-mounted rear door handles, vertically arranged front and rear lamps, an aggressive front grille and muscular fender - the all-new Swift is an innovate design.
The interior has also been updated to match the impressive exterior. With the Swift now sitting on a 20mm longer wheelbase there is more space inside for increased comfort although the height is now 15mm lower. These dimensions combine to emphasise the Swift’s new look and increase the vehicle's handling ability.
The secret behind the evolution of the new and improved Swift is the new-generation ‘HEARTECT’ platform which is lighter and more rigid. The new underbody structure and layout means collision safety has been enhanced. It also requires fewer reinforcements making for a lighter body weight which translates into real-world reduced fuel consumption and increased running, turning and stopping capabilities. These improvements aim to reduce noise and vibration for a more comfortable drive. In addition, the suspension has also been adapted to the new platform to enhance the steering response and maintain a supple driving feel.
There are a few options available on the European specifications in terms of engines. Firstly there is a 1.0 BOOSTERJET direct-injection turbo petrol engine which is optimised to balance power and fuel economy.
There is also a 1.2 DUALJET petrol engine available which achieves an average five-percent improvement to fuel economy over the previous Swift version. It is also equipped with knocking-suppressing exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and dual injection which contributes to this increased fuel economy.
Rounding out the engine options is a light and compact SHVS mild hybrid system. This system incorporates an integrated starter generator (ISG) and 12-volt lithium-ion battery which work together to also suppress fuel consumption and create a smoother, quieter ride especially when the automatic engine stop is active.
Safety inclusions in the new Swift complete the package with the impressive line up of lane departure warning, weaving alert, high beam assist, adaptive cruise control and Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS) available. These systems help to support an uplifted driving experience when tackling winding roads as well as normal driving conditions. Suzuki has adopted its first advance forward detection system designed to detect obstacles, such as pedestrians, and lane markers which are supported in both daytime and night time driving.
The new Suzuki Swift model will be available in April for European buyers with an announcement of an Australian launch date to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
