The Swift super-compact is designed to be a very affordable motor car. The Swift model looks sharp, well-built and robust. The cockpit is simple, highlighted by a sporty three-spoke steering wheel framing attractive silver-ringed instrumentation. The styling of the Swift is distinctively European and closely mimics the styling cues of the Concept S and S2 show cars: it looks bang up-to-date with a wide air dam, flared wheel arches, rear roof spoiler and smart contouring around the shoulders. The centre stack has a satin finish with very legible and logically laid-out controls. Suzuki is serious about winning new buyers to the brand with good equipment levels and attention to the little things. The level of equipment makes the Swift far from a poverty pack and the quality of materials and assembly looks and feels very good. The engine is a gem which is a carry over unit from the Esteem. A slick five-speed manual transmission is one of the lightest in recent memory and the light clutch and short gate make gear-changing a pleasure.
It's the ride that really impresses though as it is quiet and well controlled without compromising road holding or handling. The Swift has a very predictable chassis with not too much understeer. There isn't too much body roll and it seems unaffected by crosswinds.
Overall the Swift is an impressive vehicle with excellent economy, more than a hint of sportiness, stand out styling and lots of thoughtful touches. It shows that Suzuki has really sweated the detail on this car and come up with a truly competitive and value product that is well worth considering.