Next-generation Suzuki Swift unveiled in Japan

Suzuki has taken the wraps off the next generation Swift hatchback in Japan. This is the fourth generation for the Japanese automaker’s highly successful hatchback and is expected to arrive in the Indian market in late 2017.

They have said that the global model will be unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show and will be quite different from the Japanese model. As we had said earlier, this new Swift with the Maruti badging will come to India in late 2017 and be locally produced. The Indian market in addition to the two petrol variants will also get the car with the 1.3-litre diesel engine.  

This Japanese spec Swift had been leaked earlier this year first in rendering and then via a leaked brochure. It will be offered across two options- Standard and RS of which the former makes use of the 1.2-litre K-Series engine while RS models are powered by the 1.0-litre BoosterJet mill. A five-speed manual and a CVT power the standard models while the RS gets the option of a five-speed manual or a six-speed AT.  Specific variants of both can be had with AWD while all the cars get a mild hybrid technology as standard.
 
In terms of design, this Japanese spec Swift retains the overall shape that defined the model but gets a sporty and futuristic looking fascia. The rounded curves of the outgoing model have been replaced by sportier lines, sharper cuts and a lowered C-pillar to add to the new generation tag. This car, like its predecessors, too sits strong on its haunches thanks to the heavily flared wheel arches but gets a new design for the tail lamps and the bumpers.

Stepping inside, we can see a familiar layout but with completely new elements. The whole cabin has been trimmed out in a shade of grey and black. The steering is now a flat bottom unit while the instrument cluster is a new twin-pod unit with a digital trip computer. In addition Suzuki is now offering a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.

This new Swift moves to the same platform as the Baleno and in the process has become lighter. It will retain the same dimensions as the current car but with a larger cabin.