The current-shape third-generation Suzuki Swift is approaching the end of its current lifecycle, with this generation first landing in SA back in 2018. The Japanese carmaker has been hard at work developing the next all-new Suzuki Swift and there’s been a slow trickle of information and images since the concept was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2023.
As predicted, the Swift Concept looked too refined to be a concept and we suspected correctly that its 99% the production model. The info accompanying the concept images was short and sweet, and the all-new Swift will feature a high-efficiency engine, advanced safety technology like collision mitigation braking, adaptive high beam and a driver monitoring system.
Let’s talk about that engine. We already know Suzuki is dipping its toes into hybrid powertrains, evidenced by the flagship Suzuki Grand Vitara AllGrip with its mild-hybrid setup and we know that the European market’s Euro7 regulations are strict, and we’ll be very surprised if the new model doesn’t feature some form of electrification. In fact, Autocar India has gone further to say that the new engine will be a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder with a mild hybrid system bolted on.
Interestingly, Suzuki UK says its Swift units will be arriving in the Spring of 2024 and some will feature the brand’s AllGrip Auto, which essentially is a “four-wheel drive system that engages when it detects a loss of front wheel traction. When front-wheel slippage is detected, a viscous coupling engages to transfer torque to the rear wheels, providing additional traction for driving on snow-covered roads or other slippery surfaces.”
Given India and South Africa’s love for the Suzuki Swift, it will be interesting to see if the new model can continue to be the value champion. We’re yet to see the Maruiti-built version of the new-gen Swift, but will update this article when more information and images surface.
We expect the new Suzuki Swift to hit South Africa’s showrooms by the middle of 2024. We already know the new-gen Swift will be hitting European markets in Spring 2024.
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