2017 Suzuki Swift hybrid launched in Japan

The Japanese manufacturer, Suzuki, launched the hybrid version of the Swift in their home country. The new Swift made a debut in the Japanese market earlier this year with an all new Heartect platform. The hybrid version of the Swift is available in two variants – Swift Hybrid SG and the Swift Hybrid SL. 

The Hybrid Swift gets the same 1.2-litre petrol motor producing 89bhp . However, the engine comes mated to a 10kW motor. The engine is coupled with a five speed AMT (auto-mated transmission). The Hybrid system in the Swift stops sourcing power from the petrol motor and instead sources it from the electric motor when the vehicle is coasting on a relatively lower speed and in heavy traffic conditions. The system offers two driving modes to let the driver select between brisk driving or driving on fuel efficiency by increasing the frequency of EV driving

The exterior is identical to the standard model except for the ‘Hybrid’ badge on the fender. The cabin receives blue highlights on the gear shift lever, blue display in the instrument cluster and hybrid indicators showing the power graph. Suzuki has equipped the Swift hybrid with Dual Sensor Brake Support as well as lasers and cameras to help detect pedestrians.  In addition to the six airbags that the car comes with, the SL trim also comes with paddle shifters.

Suzuki has held the vehicle’s weight down to one ton to qualify for eco-car tax break in Japan. However, it is unlikely that Maruti Suzuki would bring the Swift Hybrid to Indian shores, given the low demand here.