MOTORISTS are faced with a bewildering choice when looking to buy a new supermini.
But what makes the Suzuki Swift really stand out from its rivals is the fact that it is available with both hybrid and 4x4 technology in one smart package badged as the 1.2 SZ5 SHVS ALLGRIP.
The Japanese car maker’s SHVS “mild hybrid” powertrain uses a small electric motor to aid the 90PS 1.2-litre petrol engine, a compact lithium-ion battery to store energy and a very efficient stop/start function.
A cool feature for the driver to enjoy is the 4.2in colour display in the instrument cluster. As well as providing all sorts of standard trip computer information, a graphic shows when the engine, motor and battery are active, depending on whether you are accelerating, cruising, coasting or braking.
I found it both fun and influential as it encouraged me to be more eco-friendly in my style of driving.
Then there is Suzuki’s renowned ALLGRIP four-wheel-drive technology that makes fuel economy a priority and mostly uses two-wheel drive unless it anticipates or experiences wheelspin.
It all combines, along with a five-speed manual gearbox, to deliver a claimed average of 49.7mpg (which matched my real-world experience), 101g/km of CO2 emissions, a 0-62mph time of 12.6 seconds and a top speed of 105mph.
The Swift is light and easy to drive around town and can hold its own on the motorway but it really comes into its own on country roads – the responsive steering and 4WD grip inspiring confidence and the suspension effectively soaking up the lumps and bumps.
But it’s not just the powertrain that makes the Swift stand out. It has a muscular, sporty stance that is often lacking in more bland opposition.
The deep grille, bold headlights, swooping bonnet, striking 16in alloys, rising waistline and rear spoiler are all part of the racy design. Flowing creases and bulging haunches complement the look, while concealed rear door handles add to the streamlined profile.
The youthful, sporty theme continues inside with the flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, round instrument dials with a smart line of red lighting above them, circular air con controls and vents, and sparkling white detailing on the test car.
Comfy black cloth seats with a contemporary pattern do a great job of holding you in place as you bowl along those country roads and there is loads of room up front. The rear is great for three kids and there is a durability to the cabin build, while the 265-litre boot is good for a few overnight bags.
Chief among the creature comforts is the large infotainment touchscreen in the middle of the dash that’s intuitive to use and incorporates the likes of DAB radio, intelligent sat nav with good graphics, full smartphone integration and rear view camera.
Other goodies in the top-spec SZ5 include automatic air con, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and start, and auto lights (including high beam assist).
The amount of hi-tech safety kit is as impressive, partly thanks to a front camera, laser sensor and radar system. It enables lane departure warning, weaving alert function for the drowsy or distracted driver and a system that will both warn the driver and brake automatically if it senses a collision is unavoidable.
And one final pleasant surprise, given the amount of kit, hybrid technology and 4WD capability, is the price – as this variant is available from just £16,999.
Factfile:
- Model: Suzuki Swift 1.2 SZ5 SHVS ALLGRIP
- Engine: 1.2-litre petrol/electric hybrid
- Power: 90PS
- Top speed: 105mph
- 0-62mph: 12.6 seconds
- Average mpg: 49.7
- CO2 emissions: 101g/km
- Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles
- Price: £16,999
