The Suzuki Swift is a subcompact car produced by Suzuki in Japan since 2000. Prior to this, the "Swift" nameplate had been applied to the Suzuki Cultus in export markets such as Australasia, Europe, North America.
THE VERDICT
Good:
Suzuki Swift comes with an attractive style with solid stance suitable to both males and females. It is embellished with great fit & finish. Labeled as among the finest Supermini cars in Australia. Value for money.
Not so Good:
No longer the newest car in its class...
THE REVIEW
Design and Engineering
Good:
Arriving Down Under in January 2005, with the mid life facelift following in July 2007, the current generation Suzuki Swift was influenced by European know-how, Suzuki's best model (maybe ever?) and the styling is still holding up well, remaining relatively modern & fresh today. The next generation car is now on sale in Europe and its styling is very similiar to this one - a sign that the designers hit the nail on the head.
Not so good:
As the market develops many more competitions for this much loved car, Suzuki Swift no longer is as eye catching as before. However, Suzuki Swift plans to launch an all new model in March 2011.
Interior and Styling
Good:
A smart dash design that wouldn't look out of place in a larger car and a leather steering wheel (with audio controls!) on the base model lifts the feel-good factor. Plenty of headroom up-front; good rear seat visibility for kids; clever dual-level boot.
Not so good:
Front seats could do with more support; slightly tinny' sound when doors are firmly closed. It's not class leading in the rear - the rear seat folds but has no slide function, it lacks cushion base support and the boot is on the small side.
Performance
Good:
The revvy 1.5L engine has adequate get up and go; quiet at highway speed, primarily for a SUPERMINI car.
Not so good:
The optionally available cruise control is for no reason the cleverest system we've tried.
Ride and Handling
Good:
Drives pretty much as smartly as it looks; only very rough surfaces and potholes disrupt the fine handling. The slick manual and automatic transmissions don't fail. Steering is light yet provides sufficient feedback.
Not so good:
Not the most reasonable car in its class, and it can't match the handling benchmark set by the Ford Fiesta or the Mazda 2.
Buying and Owning
Good:
It's ageing well and should continue to stand the test of time better than some of the more modern, aggressively styled SUPERMINI's.
Not so good:
The lack of legroom in the rear seems to be the greatest flaw in the car make. You could be hearing complains and grumbles now and then for more want of leg room.
