Maruti Suzuki Swift: All You Need to Know

This is the new generation Maruti Suzuki Swift, and it mostly sticks to the same formula that has made the Swift nameplate such a legend. As a result, it is a standout design. It is also light, nimble, and crucially, fun to drive. However, this fourth-generation car has improved on the formula. It has done so with nicer interiors, more features, better suspension, and unexpectedly, a nicer engine. More on that later. Furthermore, given its on-road price tag for the top-spec version, it is still an entry-level premium hatch.

Swift – Things We Like

• Front Passenger Ergonomics
• Driveability
• Mileage
• Handling
• Features list

Swift – Things We Dislike

• Interior plastic quality
• NVH Levels
• Low-Speed Ride
• AMT Gearbox
• Pricing is on the higher side

Swift – Must Know Details

The big talking point about the new Swift is the fresh three-cylinder 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. It is all-new, says Maruti. Adding that it is the most thermally efficient engine Suzuki has ever produced. The new engine is down on power compared to the older K-Series unit. And the peak torque rating has dropped marginally as well. However, Maruti engineers add that the torque curve is steeper at low rpm, and as flat as before in the mid-range. This should ideally translate into better driveability than the output figures suggest, at least in the low- and mid-rpm range or at slower city speeds. The good news is, that one can feel that nothing is lacking in terms of pick-up and throttle response at low revs, it also feels equally alive in the mid-range & contrary to expectations, the engine doesn’t lose steam towards the top end of the rpm spectrum either. 

Lest we forget, this new three-cylinder engine has a very distinct audible note to it. It is slightly gruff but not unrefined. As a result, it has sporty overtones, which make it a joy to push hard. The downside, of course, is a slight droning noise one can hear when sitting at 100kmph in top gear. Between the two, the manual would be our pick. The clutch is light and progressive, the shift quality is precise, and it makes for a more engaging drive compared to the less alert, slightly laggy AMT. As an AMT, the setup isn’t bad, but as an automatic, it lacks the refinement and seamlessness one craves.

Maruti has reworked the suspension setup for this car. It has more suspension travel now, the spring rates and damping are tuned more for comfort too. It continues to be a handling delight, front is pointy, mid-corner playfulness is very much alive and it feels rock solid in a straight line at high speeds. The brakes are strong with good feel and progression. Although the steering rack isn’t as quick as a car of this nature deserves, it doesn’t get in the way of driving enjoyment.

Swift – Performance and Specs

• Engine: 1197cc 3-Cylinder Petrol
• Power: 81.58 HP @ 5700 rpm
• Torque: 111.7 NM lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
• Top Speed: 169.99 KMPH
• Acceleration: 0-90 KMPH in 14 seconds
• Transmission: 5-speed MT / AMT
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
• Suspension: MacPherson Strut (Front), Torsion Beam (Rear)
• Brakes: Ventilated Disc (Front), Drum (Rear)
• Wheels: 14” steel / 15” alloy
• Length: 151.96 inches
• Width: 68.3 inches
• Height: 59.84 inches
• Weight: 2,028.25(MT) – 2,039.27(AMT) LBS

Swift – Competitors

• Hyundai Grand i10 Nios
• Tata Tiago
• Maruti Suzuki Baleno / Toyota Glanza
• Tata Punch
• Hyundai Exter
• Citroen C3

Swift – Our Verdict

If you are looking for an efficient, easy-to-drive and proven family hatchback, the new Swift checks all the boxes. Additionally, it is fun to drive, and it even has the prerequisite feature list now, which one expects in the top-of-the-range entry-level hatchback.

But the pricing is on the higher end of the spectrum for a car of its segment. Its interior lacks a premium look and feel, and the AMT not cutting the mustard as a refined and nice-to-use auto box. Also, the presence of the mild droning noise that accompanies the 100 KM/H cruise.