Suzuki Swift is simply a subcompact car manufactured by Japan and is in the market since 2000. Primarily, the word ‘Swift’ was adopted for the Suzuki Cultus in export markets which include Australasia, Europe, North America.

THE VERDICT

Good:

Great design - the solid stance appeals equally to both genders; fit & finish is very good. Still one of the best Supermini's in Australia. A smart buy.

Not so Good:

Suzuki Swift may be one of the best superminis in Australia; however it is not the only car in this category. It now faces a lot of competition from other cars that have made an entry in his genre.

THE REVIEW

Design and Engineering

Good:

The current Suzuki Swift design has evolved from what we saw on it arrival in January 2005 and changes in July 2007. It is inspired by the European designs. It stands as the best Suzuki model till date with modern styling. What’s more complementing for the designers of the car, Europe currently sells the next generation car with its design very similar to Suzuki Swift.

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:

The front seats lack the much required extra support. The doors make a small but audible sound while closing firmly. The rear section of the car could do with more styling. The rear seats do fold but not slide, they lack cushion base support with the boot on the small side.

Performance

Good:

The revvy 1.5L engine has sufficient get up and go; quiet at highway speed, especially for a SUPERMINI car.

Not so good:

The optionally available cruise control is for no reason the smartest system we’ve tried.

Ride and Handling

Good:

Drives virtually as smartly as it looks; only very hard surfaces and potholes unsettle the fine handling. The slick manual and automatic transmissions don’t let down. Steering is light yet provides satisfactory feedback.

Not so good:

Not the most cost effective 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.