All-new 4th-generation Suzuki Swift unveiled

Suzuki has officially taken the wraps off its all-new fourth-generation Suzuki Swift in Japan today.

Available in six trims levels in its local market – the RSt, Hybrid RS, RS, Hybrid ML, XL and XG, Suzuki’s new hatch will also be offered with two engines – the 75kW/150Nm K10C 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbocharged three-cylinder and 67kW/118Nm K12C 1.2-litre twin-injector Dualjet naturally aspirated four-cylinder.

The K10C is only offered on the RSt and is married with a six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. The RS, XL and XG models are all powered by the less powerful K12C matched with either a five-speed manual or CVT and a choice of two-or all-wheel drive.

For the first time, a couple of hybrid variants are on offer – the Hybrid RS and Hybrid ML – both using the K12C mill combined with a 2.3kW/50Nm DC synchronous electric motor that acts as the car’s integrated starter generator (ISG). The ISG is hooked up to a dedicated lithium-ion battery pack that assist the engine during acceleration, idling stops, as well as generated electricity while decelerating. The hybrid variants are paired exclusively with a CVT and are available as two- and all-wheel drive.

Suzuki’s latest hatchback sits on the carmaker’s new ‘Heartect’ platform that is said to improve rigidity while weighing 30kg to 160kg less than before, tipping the scales between 840kg and 970kg.

The Swift measures 3,840mm long, 1,695mm wide, 1,500mm tall and has a 2,450mm wheelbase. That makes it 10mm longer, 10mm lower and a 20mm stretch in it wheelbase, with width remaining unchanged. All-wheel drive models are 15mm taller than the rest of the range. The car continues to sit on McPherson struts up front and torsion beams at the back and gets disc brakes all round.

Aesthetically, the small hatch sports a new front fascia with new LED headlights, curvier sheet metal and a range of 15- and 16-inch wheels, depending on variant. The car’s C-pillars are partly blacked out and hide the rear door handles. ‘RS’ variants also get sportier bumpers, front grille, side skirts and roof spoiler.

Inside, the cabin now looks more upmarket then before, thanks to the new flat-bottom steering wheel, instrument cluster, climate control switchgear and touchscreen infotainment system.

Equipment highlights include automatic air-conditioning, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reverse camera, keyless operation and paddle shifters.

Hybrid models add multi-function colour display (monochrome on others) and a light bar that shows the current state and efficiency of the hybrid system.

Importantly, the new Swift is available with the latest in safety and driver assistance features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control.

The 2017 Suzuki Swift is expected to hit local shores in the middle of next year.