The Suzuki Swift has long been a staple in the compact car segment, known for its practicality, affordability, and efficient performance. With the release of the 2024 Suzuki Swift, the brand introduces a mild hybrid version that promises enhanced fuel economy and a touch of modernity. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the key features, driving experience, interior details, and how it stacks up against its competitors.

Key Features

• Engine and Performance: 1.2L 3-cylinder engine, mild hybrid with 61 kW and 112 Nm.
• Fuel Economy: Improved by up to 177% over the previous generation, achieving 5L/100 km.
• Interior: Modernized with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a wireless phone charger.
• Exterior: All-new styling, slightly larger than the previous model.
• Competitors: MG3, Kia Rio, Mazda 2, Toyota Yaris.

Suzuki Swift Mild Hybrid System

The term “mild hybrid” often raises eyebrows, and rightfully so. Unlike full hybrids, mild hybrids offer limited electric assistance but can still provide significant benefits in terms of fuel efficiency. The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid incorporates an integrated starter generator and a small lithium-ion battery. This system supports the internal combustion engine during acceleration and allows for smooth stop-start functionality at traffic lights.

Table: Mild Hybrid Specifications

Suzuki Swift Performance and Driving Experience

Despite its hybrid badge, the Suzuki Swift Hybrid 2024 feels predominantly like a traditional combustion engine car. The electric assistance is most noticeable during stop-start scenarios and low-speed acceleration. This makes it an ideal city car, providing a responsive and efficient driving experience without the complexity of a full hybrid system.

Driving Impressions

• Steering and Handling: Light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
• Suspension: Soft and comfortable, offering a smooth ride over city streets.
• Refinement: Improved over the previous generation, though the 3-cylinder engine can be slightly noisy.

Suzuki Swift Interior and Comfort

The interior of the new Swift has seen significant upgrades, particularly in the top-spec GLX model. While it may not be the most luxurious in its class, it offers a pleasant environment for its price point.

Front Cabin

• Infotainment: A 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay stands out, providing modern connectivity options.
• Seating: Cloth seats with manual adjustment are standard, with height adjustability in the top-spec model.
• Materials: Hard plastics dominate the cabin, but the design is modern and functional.

Rear Cabin

• Space: Ample knee and foot room for adult passengers, though headroom can be tight for taller individuals.
• Amenities: Lacks features like a center armrest, USB outlets, and rear air vents, which are noticeable omissions in the top-spec model.

Cargo Space

The boot space in the new Swift is practical for a small car, offering 265 liters of capacity. This is an improvement over the previous generation, partly due to the car’s increased length by 2 cm. However, the absence of a spare wheel and reliance on a puncture repair kit might be a downside for some buyers.

Suzuki Swift Comparison with Competitors

In a crowded segment, the Suzuki Swift Hybrid faces stiff competition from models like the MG3, Kia Rio, Mazda 2, and Toyota Yaris. Here’s how it stacks up:

Table: Competitor Comparison

Performance

• MG3 Hybrid: Offers significantly more power but at a higher price point.
• Kia Rio: Slightly more powerful but less fuel-efficient.
• Mazda 2: A balance of power and efficiency but more expensive.
• Toyota Yaris: The most efficient and powerful, but also the priciest.

Interior and Features

• MG3: Advanced interior features and higher power output.
• Kia Rio: Moderately equipped but not as fuel-efficient.
• Mazda 2: Offers a more luxurious interior.
• Toyota Yaris: Top-notch efficiency and features but comes at a premium price.

Suzuki swift Fuel Economy and Running Costs

The real-world fuel economy of 5L/100 km is impressive for the Suzuki Swift Hybrid. However, it requires 95 RON premium unleaded fuel, which can slightly increase running costs. The five-year servicing cost is pegged at $1,955, which is relatively high but offset by the vehicle’s efficient fuel consumption.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The new Swift includes several ADAS features, enhancing safety and driving convenience. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated emergency braking are part of the package. These systems work well, particularly on motorways, providing a confident driving experience.

Conclusion

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid represents a significant step forward for the model, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, modern features, and improved refinement. While it may not match the hybrid sophistication of Toyota or Hyundai systems, it delivers notable efficiency improvements and a pleasant driving experience at a competitive price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Impressive fuel economy
• Modernized interior with essential features
• Light and responsive driving dynamics
• Competitive pricing

Cons:

• Limited hybrid functionality
• Basic interior materials in places
• Requires premium fuel
• Slightly high servicing costs

Final Verdict

The Suzuki Swift Hybrid 2024 is a great choice for those seeking an efficient, practical, and affordable city car. Its mild hybrid system, while not as advanced as some competitors, still offers significant benefits in fuel economy. The modern interior and competitive pricing make it an attractive option in the compact car segment. For urban commuters and small car enthusiasts, the new Swift Hybrid is certainly worth considering.