TEST DRIVE REVIEW

Light and compact it may be, but the Suzuki Swift punches above its weight as a practical and fun everyday car. Based on the same underpinnings as the previous model, the new version has only grown slightly in exterior size but manages to free up more space inside.

Driving

Powered by a new 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine producing a modest 81bhp, the featherweight Swift still manages to easily keep up with traffic. The Swift’s lightness pays dividends when it comes to handling. Its light steering adds to the enjoyment and the minimal body lean makes it an agile car to drive. It inspires confidence as its front end responds quickly when prompted to change direction. All versions of the Swift have mild hybrid technology, meaning a tiny electric motor is on hand to assist the petrol engine when you’re pulling away. Its main purpose is to cut fuel consumption, and fitted with a manual gearbox, the Swift officially averages a frugal 64.2MPG. We easily beat this figure on our test as will most owners. While there are faster small cars available on the Motability Scheme, the Swift performs well on the road as it pulls strongly from low revs. Front-wheel-drive (2WD) versions can officially do 0-62mph in 12.5 seconds. It helps that the engine is smoother and quieter than the three-cylinder units in many rivals. There’s also a four-wheel drive model called AllGrip that adds unique appeal to drivers who want a bit of extra traction for modest excursions off-road without leasing an SUV. Interior The Swift’s driving position is very good. The steering wheel adjusts for height, and most drivers will find it easy to get comfortable. There’s no adjustable lumbar support in any version of the Swift, but you only really miss it on long journeys. The rear doors open wide, and tall side windows make the interior feel airy and light. The Swift is easier to see out of than many other small cars, thanks to those side windows and relatively up-right windscreen pillars. All versions have a reversing camera and rear parking sensors. Inside the Swift is a nice blend of colours and textures, combined with solid build quality. While the Swift has a reassuringly traditional feel compared to more stripped-down interiors, all models come with an easy-to-read 9.0in touchscreen and feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring. Space and practicality The Swift’s small exterior dimensions mean it’s ideal for those with limited parking space, but who still need enough space for four people. There’s lots of headroom and seats that slide a long way back. Stowage space is reasonable, including two central trays and a couple of cup holders. As you would expect in such a small car, rear space isn’t as generous, but a couple of six-footers will fit in easily enough. The smallish boot, at 265 litres, is mitigated by the rear seats. They split 60:40, which allowed us to easily fit our scooter with only one side of the rear seat folded down, thanks to its practical shape. While there’s a big drop down from the entrance of the boot to the floor of the load bay, the height from the ground is low. Equipment There’s lots of standard kit with even the entry-level Motion trim having 16in alloys, LED headlights, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and the 9.0in touchscreen infotainment system. The Ultra trim gets a polished finish to the alloys, automatic (rather than manual) air-conditioning and power-folding door mirrors.

Interior

The Swift’s driving position is very good. The steering wheel adjusts for height, and most drivers will find it easy to get comfortable. There’s no adjustable lumbar support in any version of the Swift, but you only really miss it on long journeys. The rear doors open wide, and tall side windows make the interior feel airy and light. The Swift is easier to see out of than many other small cars, thanks to those side windows and relatively up-right windscreen pillars. All versions have a reversing camera and rear parking sensors. Inside the Swift is a nice blend of colours and textures, combined with solid build quality. While the Swift has a reassuringly traditional feel compared to more stripped-down interiors, all models come with an easy-to-read 9.0in touchscreen and feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring. Space and practicality The Swift’s small exterior dimensions mean it’s ideal for those with limited parking space, but who still need enough space for four people. There’s lots of headroom and seats that slide a long way back. Stowage space is reasonable, including two central trays and a couple of cup holders. As you would expect in such a small car, rear space isn’t as generous, but a couple of six-footers will fit in easily enough. The smallish boot, at 265 litres, is mitigated by the rear seats. They split 60:40, which allowed us to easily fit our scooter with only one side of the rear seat folded down, thanks to its practical shape. While there’s a big drop down from the entrance of the boot to the floor of the load bay, the height from the ground is low. Equipment There’s lots of standard kit with even the entry-level Motion trim having 16in alloys, LED headlights, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and the 9.0in touchscreen infotainment system. The Ultra trim gets a polished finish to the alloys, automatic (rather than manual) air-conditioning and power-folding door mirrors.

Space and practicality

The Swift’s small exterior dimensions mean it’s ideal for those with limited parking space, but who still need enough space for four people. There’s lots of headroom and seats that slide a long way back. Stowage space is reasonable, including two central trays and a couple of cup holders. As you would expect in such a small car, rear space isn’t as generous, but a couple of six-footers will fit in easily enough. The smallish boot, at 265 litres, is mitigated by the rear seats. They split 60:40, which allowed us to easily fit our scooter with only one side of the rear seat folded down, thanks to its practical shape. While there’s a big drop down from the entrance of the boot to the floor of the load bay, the height from the ground is low. Equipment There’s lots of standard kit with even the entry-level Motion trim having 16in alloys, LED headlights, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and the 9.0in touchscreen infotainment system. The Ultra trim gets a polished finish to the alloys, automatic (rather than manual) air-conditioning and power-folding door mirrors.

Equipment

There’s lots of standard kit with even the entry-level Motion trim having 16in alloys, LED headlights, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a reversing camera, blind-spot monitoring and the 9.0in touchscreen infotainment system. The Ultra trim gets a polished finish to the alloys, automatic (rather than manual) air-conditioning and power-folding door mirrors.