Suzuki has re-entered the South African market with the launch of the Swift. Despite the fact that this hatch is the first of its kind in SA for Suzuki (previously, Suzuki only made its 4x4s available here), the Swift looks set to be a real competitor in The Swift is powered by a 1,5-litre four cylinder engine with variable valve timing and multi-point fuel injection. This powerplant delivers 74 kW at 6 000 r/min and 133 N.m at 4 000 r/min. There are three models available in the Swift range – the 1,5i GL, 1,5i GLS, and the 1,5i GLS Automatic. The manual models are mated with a five-speed transmission, while the automatic models make use five-speed transmissions. The five-speed manual Swift can go from zero to 100 km/h in 11,0 seconds, and on to a top speed of 175 km/h.

The Swift is built on a completely new platform that Suzuki claims was specially designed for its compact cars. The steering box, lower control arms of the MacPherson strut-based front suspension and rear engine mounting are attached to a separate front sub-frame, and Suzuki says that this results in a more rigid structure and gives the driver better control, ride and handling qualities. This hatchback is equipped with torsion-beam rear suspension.

The front of the Swift features clear headlights and a broad air intake. Suzuki claims that this has been done to “create an image of purposeful aggression”. The flared wheel arches of the Swift are filled with 15-inch alloys.

The overall length of the Swift is 3 755 mm, but Suzuki claims that despite it being so small, the Swift “maximises space while minimising size”. The cabin seats five people, and the driver’s seat has 32 mm of height adjustment.

The interior of the Swift features an integrated dashboard-mounted information display that includes a digital clock, outside temperature gauge and fuel consumption readout. There are cup holders in the front and rear, and standard comfort features include air-conditioning across the range, a four-speaker sound system on the GL trim level, and a six-speaker audio system on the high spec GLS model. A CD receiver can be fitted as an aftermarket option at additional cost. For added comfort, Suzuki has equipped its Swift with power steering with tilt adjustment for the steering wheel, electric windows, and electrically operated mirrors.

Suzuki claims that the Swift has a vast amount of storage space, everywhere from the doors to the glove compartment, and even a nifty retractable tray under the front passenger seat. Luggage space stands at 213 dm³ with the rear seats in position, and grows to 562 dm³ with the seats folded.

Safety features include dual front airbags across the range, while the higher trim levels come fitted with side airbags and front/side curtain bags. Other standard safety features include driver aids such as ABS, EBA, and brake assist, Isofix child seat mountings, an immobiliser and central locking. South African Swifts are pre-fitted with Altech Netstar's Sleuth tracking system, which can be activated at an optional, monthly fee.

Prices:

1,5i GL R116 900

1,5i GLS R131 900

1,5i GLS AT R144 900

Prices include the Suzuki Complete package that offers a three-year/ 100 000 km warranty, a four-year/60 000 km service plan, and a three-year/ unlimited km roadside assistance service.

The July 08 issue of CAR (on sale 26 June) features a full road test of the Swift, as well as a special report on the entire Suzuki vehicle range.

Download wallpapers of the Suzuki Swift.

Original article from Car