Suzuki Swift 2015 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering would you buy one?

What is it?

The design has stood the test of time and it is still fourth in its segment

The Suzuki Swift needs no introduction. It has been a huge success for the company. In its second generation it's getting a little old now, but the design has stood the test of time and it is still fourth in its segment.

How much?

Prices start at $15,990 for the GL manual. The GL Nav with an auto brings the price to $17,490, while the GLX Nav is $21,990. Then there's the Sport with a larger, more potent engine for $24,490. 

What are competitors?

The new Mazda2 has become the leader in the segment followed by the Toyota Yaris and Hyundai i20. The Honda Jazz and Volkswagen Polo are also worth consideration.

What's under the bonnet?

The original Swift came with a 1.5. This one gets a 1.4 with almost as much power but better fuel economy. It delivers 70kW of power and 130Nm of torque and is paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. 

How does it go?

Surprisingly well with limitations. Like most small cars if you let the revs drop you could find it difficult to recapture momentum. Did we mention the overdrive lockout button (haven't seen one of them in a while). 

Is it economical?

Fuel consumption is a claimed 6.2 litres/100km, which is at the upper end for this segment but hardly thirsty.

Is it green?

Gets 4 out of 5 stars from the Government's Green Vehicle Guide, with C02 emissions of 147g/km.

Is it safe?

Gets a full five stars for safety with seven airbags including a driver's knee bag. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and electronic stability control (ESC) are also standard. 

Is it comfortable?

Not bad but we would not look forward to travelling long distance behind the wheel. Cruise control is standard but it misses out on reach adjust for the wheel.

What's it like to drive?

The boot space is quite small and rear legroom is limited, but this is probably not going to worry the young women that flock to this car. 
The bluetooth phone system and its non intuitive controls on the hand drove us nuts, locking out the audio controls as soon as the car moved off. We finally figured out that hitting the hang up button released control again.

Is it value for money?

Nothing really missing from the equipment list for an entry level model. Disappointing that GL models have drum brakes on the rear, while the GLX adds four-wheel discs and the GLX gets reach as well as tilt adjustment for the steering wheel.

Would we buy one?

As cute as it is the Swift is starting to show its age and the competition has been catching up, but still comes up well in safety tests which is an important consideration.