Suzuki Swift Sport road test
by Stephen Walker
17th June, 2012
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Suzuki Swift Sport
released
21st February, 2012
One of the most popular light cars across the nation is the Suzuki Swift.
It is a mighty fine example of an appealing light car. But there is one edition that is even better! Yes, we're talking
Suzuki Swift Sport on this occasion. It's all about adding a degree of sportiness to Suzuki's highly admired little
car.
Test Car
We put ourselves 'in the saddle' of the CVT auto version of the Suzuki Swift Sport. The Champion Yellow coloured car
that we drove sure looked good. The colour, the wheels, the trimmings, the body kit and the dual exhaust add a dramatic
effect that highlights the sporty appeal of this model.
Prices*
The base manufacturer's list price* for the Suzuki Swift Sport is from $23,990* for the manual and from $25,990* for
the automatic. Premium paint is optional at $475*.
Model background
Suzuki has had a Swift model on the market for decades. When a new model appeared in 2005, sales of the little Swift
skyrocketed. This particular model also had a Sport version.
Another new-generation model came along last year that introduced a marginally larger car. The Sport version of this
new Swift arrived locally in February.
Driving the Suzuki Swift Sport
Our mix of freeway, highway and urban traffic was typical of big city motoring. The Swift is a nimble little car that
provides excellent opportunities to sneak into tight parking spaces when you're out and about in the busy 'eat street'
areas. Visibility is good, particularly when compared to the previous generation Swift Sport which had a 'tombstone' type
front seat.
Everything about driving the Swift Sport is satisfying. Whilst nowhere near super car category, the Swift Sport
fulfills its role as a sporty little car quite admirably. The seating upfront is comfortable, in fact we were impressed by
the improvement of the front seats compared to the previous model. The seats are thick and the side bolsters effective for
city driving tasks. Red stitching is a feature of the front seats. All controls and functions are user friendly, in the
manner expected from Suzuki. The controls are all within easy reach for comfortable driving.
Specifications
Powered by a Euro V compliant 1.6-litre, four-cylinder (1,586 cc), the test car came complete with 100 kW (at 6,900
rpm) of power and 160 Nm at 4,400 rpm of torque. The Swift Sport is front-wheel drive.
The Swift Sport is offered with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, whilst the test car was fitted with the
optional CVT automatic (with paddle shifts).
Safety
With 7 airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and traction control, the Swift Sport has
the important aspects of occupant protection covered.
The Suzuki Swift has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP.
Performance
Although no factory performance figures are available, the factory suggest the Swift Sport has a fierce power-to-weight
ratio. We found the acceleration in suburban traffic was more than adequate.
Fuel and emissions
On the combined cycle, fuel consumption of the Swift Sport manual is rated at an admirable 6.5 litres per 100 kms on the
combined cycle. The auto comes in at an even better 6.1 litres/100 kms (combined cycle).
Preferred fuel is rated at 95RON, otherwise performance and economy suffers. In an emergency, standard 91RON petrol is
good for a back-up to get you to a fuel station with 95RON.
The fuel tank capacity is 42 litres.
CO2 emissions are 153/144 grammes/kilometre (manual/auto) on the combined cycle.
Equipment
Driver's footrest, 4-way adjustable steering wheel, 17" alloy wheels, sealant kit for spare, radio/CD player with MP3
capability, including Bluetooth® and USB port, cruise control, stainless steel pedals, keyless entry,
climate-control air conditioning and more.
Dimensions
Length: 3,890 mm
Width: 1,695 mm
Height: 1,510 mm
Wheelbase: 2,430 mm
Weight: 1,060 kg (manual), 1,075 kg (automatic)
Boot capacity: 210 litres (with rear seat upright, loaded to lower window)
After Sales
The warranty operates, with conditions, on a three year/100,000 kilometre basis. The warranty is transferable to
subsequent owners within this period.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Swift Sport appeals, not only because of its presentation and nimbleness, but the value proposition is
exceptional. This is a very pleasing little car.
NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) for vehicles supplied by
Suzuki Australia, excludes dealer delivery fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs).
Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the
specifications.
Prices and specifications may vary in Queensland and northern New South Wales where Suzuki vehicles are supplied by
Suzuki Queensland (a separate entity to Suzuki Australia).
More Suzuki News .....
here.
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