After its concept was unveiled during the Japan Mobility show in Tokyo in October 2023, from April 3rd, customers in the UK will be able to order the new fourth-generation Suzuki Swift. The latest version of the supermini is competitively priced compared to its competitors in the market with prices starting from £18,699. Suzuki has sold over nine million Swifts across 119 countries since 2004 so what makes the new iteration different?

The new Swift uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and is assisted by a 12-volt mild hybrid system that boosts efficiency, lowering carbon emissions and offering greater fuel economy - 8% better than its predecessor. It produces 82bhp and 112Nm of torque with the five-speed manual gearbox version managing a 0-62mph time of 12.5 seconds, compared to 11.9 seconds in the automatic option.

There are currently two trim levels to choose from: Motion and Ultra.

The entry-level Motion trim (£18,699) comes with a host of features including a rear upper spoiler, LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, 9-inch media display including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Navigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, heated front seats, rearview camera, rear parking sensors, Dual Sensor Brake Support, Traffic Sign Recognition and Blind Spot Monitor. Suzuki expects this to be the bigger seller.

The Ultra trim is £1,100 on top of the starting price and adds 16-inch polished alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, rear passenger heater outlet and electric folding door mirrors. The new Swift is front-wheel drive, although an optional ALLGRIP ‘Auto’ 4WD is to be introduced on the Ultra model with manual transmission later this year.

The CVT automatic gearbox can be swapped in instead of the manual and is an extra £1,250 for either trim.

The car is available in eight metallic colours with a further four dual tone colours available optionally incorporating either a Black Pearl or Grey metallic roof depending on the chosen body colour.

The starting price of £18,699 makes it cheaper than a Vauxhall Corsa, although it still comes in a few hundred pounds over the new MG3 Hybrid +.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Suzuki