Page 1 of 1 The eye-catching good looks and European-inspired driving dynamics of Suzuki's Swift form the perfect basis for a higher performance derivative. That potential has now been realised with the launch of the new flagship model, the Swift Sport 3-door hatchback, which offers an exciting driving experience in a highly practical and stylish package. Building on feedback from the Company's motor sport programme, the latest Swift derivative blends a sports-tuned version of the capable chassis with a Junior World Rally Championship-honed, high-revving 1.6 litre VVT engine to deliver an intoxicating mix that's of instant appeal to the enthusiast driver.
Agile handling is matched with scintillating performance and the 0 to 62 mph benchmark comes up in just 8.9 seconds - considerably quicker than the Citroën C2 VTR and MINI One and an improvement even on the MINI Cooper. Among the external features unique to the Swift Sport are a deeper front bumper incorporating a distinctive lower grille, redesigned rear bumper and lights and stylish 17 inch alloy wheels. They are complemented inside by a striking red and black trim colour combination, sports seats and stylish highlights such as brushed stainless steel pedals. The uprated chassis features stiffer springs and dampers, with ESP (Electronic Stability Control) providing an added sense of security.
Standard equipment includes automatic air conditioning, curtain airbags, MP3-audio compatibility, front foglamps, steering wheel audio controls and Keyless start. Sales commence in the UK during October and the price will be announced at or just after September's Paris Motor Show where the European-spec Swift Sport makes its public debut; expect it to be in the region of £11,500 on the road. The Sport, along with the rest of the Swift range for Europe, is built at Magyar Suzuki Corporation, Hungary, although such is the demand that current production constraints are likely to limit supply.
The Sport's newly developed twin-cam 1.6 litre VVT petrol engine has been fully tried and tested in the heat of top-level rallying competition, since it forms the basis of the JWRC Swift. The M16A 16-valve, 1586 cc unit delivers a maximum power output of 125 PS at 6800 rpm. The 148 Nm peak torque is reached at 4800 rpm. 62 mph from standstill is dispatched in 8.9 seconds, while top speed is 124 mph. Despite the new Swift's sporting credentials, it still returns a creditable 37.7 mpg on the Combined cycle.
The engine's exciting performance comes courtesy of components tuned exclusively for the Swift Sport. Variable valve timing optimises efficiency for abundant torque and strong acceleration across the rev range, with high-lift intake and exhaust cams boosting engine performance at high revs. An electronic throttle provides close control and maximises responsiveness, while the intake manifold is specially widened and has polished internal surfaces that enhance the incoming airflow for higher power. Features such as pistons warm-forged for strength and oil jet cooled enhance durability and permit a high compression ratio of 11.1:1 for greater output.
And a high capacity exhaust system plays its part in boosting efficiency, as well as sounding great thanks to a resonant, full-bodied note that never fails to heighten the exhilaration of driving the Swift Sport. The 1.6 litre engine is mated to a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and uprated clutch. Suzuki has paid particular attention to tuning the quality of the gear selection mechanism and the result is an effortless and slick shifting action, allowing rapid and positive changes that enhance the driving experience. Page 1 of 1
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The eye-catching good looks and European-inspired driving dynamics of Suzuki's Swift form the perfect basis for a higher performance derivative. That potential has now been realised with the launch of the new flagship model, the Swift Sport 3-door hatchback, which offers an exciting driving experience in a highly practical and stylish package. Building on feedback from the Company's motor sport programme, the latest Swift derivative blends a sports-tuned version of the capable chassis with a Junior World Rally Championship-honed, high-revving 1.6 litre VVT engine to deliver an intoxicating mix that's of instant appeal to the enthusiast driver.