Evolution not revolution, that is how Suzuki describes its latest generation Swift.
And why should it drastically change a winning formula? 1.65 million people have found homes for a Swift since it was first launched in 2005.
After all Russell Hobbs has made a fortune out of selling toasters over the years, yet the toaster simply evolves into a better version of its predecessor, it doesn't all of a sudden require to be hung from a ceiling, or float in water.
And why should it drastically change a winning formula? 1.65 million people have found homes for a Swift since it was first launched in 2005.
After all Russell Hobbs has made a fortune out of selling toasters over the years, yet the toaster simply evolves into a better version of its predecessor, it doesn't all of a sudden require to be hung from a ceiling, or float in water.
The same can be said about the new Swift, it has always been stylish, practical and good to drive (and even more importantly it accounts for 37 per cent of Suzuki's total car sales in the UK), so rather the new car being a distant cousin of the last one they have instead designed a slightly refined twin brother; boasting sharper looks, better safety, cleaner engines, better economy and more room.
On paper the new Swift looks destined to continue in the footsteps of its elder relative, but if I had a spare £10,000 burning a hole in my pocket and was in the market for a B-segment car would I opt for a Swift over a Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra, Vauxhall Corsa, even a MINI?
To find out I met the good people from Suzuki at Carden Park Hotel, near Chester, and got behind the wheel of a SZ4 five-door Swift.
First impressions from the cockpit were good, it felt bigger than the last model - it is 90mm longer, 50mm longer wheelbase for more rear legroom, 10mm higher and 5mm wider - and the interior was modern and smart.
As before, the driving position offers plenty of adjustment and there's no shortage of room for two adults up front.
It is well equipped too, the SZ3 comes with manual air conditioning and alloy wheels as standard, while the SZ4 offers automatic air conditioning, a Bluetooth-capable audio unit, electric front and rear windows, push button keyless start, automatic headlamps and cruise control. The five-door model (which I was driving) also comes with rear privacy glass.
On the go the Swift is willing and refined, the steering is responsive, and the suspension and brakes have been revised to better cope with the demands of city driving.
The 1.2 engine is also cleaner than the old 1.3 unit - now putting out 116g/km of CO2 and fuel economy is also better at 56.5mpg. A revised 1.3-litre diesel arrives in spring.
Add the manufacturers attractive zero per cent finance deal (with a 50 per cent deposit) and the new generation Swift is definitely a car look at if you are thinking of buying new supermini.
By Richard Jones
On paper the new Swift looks destined to continue in the footsteps of its elder relative, but if I had a spare £10,000 burning a hole in my pocket and was in the market for a B-segment car would I opt for a Swift over a Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra, Vauxhall Corsa, even a MINI?
To find out I met the good people from Suzuki at Carden Park Hotel, near Chester, and got behind the wheel of a SZ4 five-door Swift.
First impressions from the cockpit were good, it felt bigger than the last model - it is 90mm longer, 50mm longer wheelbase for more rear legroom, 10mm higher and 5mm wider - and the interior was modern and smart.
As before, the driving position offers plenty of adjustment and there's no shortage of room for two adults up front.
It is well equipped too, the SZ3 comes with manual air conditioning and alloy wheels as standard, while the SZ4 offers automatic air conditioning, a Bluetooth-capable audio unit, electric front and rear windows, push button keyless start, automatic headlamps and cruise control. The five-door model (which I was driving) also comes with rear privacy glass.
On the go the Swift is willing and refined, the steering is responsive, and the suspension and brakes have been revised to better cope with the demands of city driving.
The 1.2 engine is also cleaner than the old 1.3 unit - now putting out 116g/km of CO2 and fuel economy is also better at 56.5mpg. A revised 1.3-litre diesel arrives in spring.
Add the manufacturers attractive zero per cent finance deal (with a 50 per cent deposit) and the new generation Swift is definitely a car look at if you are thinking of buying new supermini.
By Richard Jones
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