Suzuki’s Swift was born to offer European car patrons with an inexpensive however enjoyable hatch. It had sporty styling, crisp dealing with and a wholesome sprint of energy. Inspired in some ways by the unique Mini, it saved its mass between its wheels and a giant smile on its face. The Swift, nevertheless, was a giant gamble from Suzuki. Would there be a market? It was nothing lower than a leap of religion for the Japanese model.  

What made it a legend in India was that it offered car patrons, particularly enthusiastic ones, one thing to sink their enamel into. And then there was Maruti’s masterstroke: slotting Fiat’s gentle, super-efficient and free-revving common-rail diesel below the bonnet. It simply reworked the Swift, and Indian patrons cherished that it could possibly be quick, enjoyable and environment friendly—all on the identical time.

However, over time, the Swift has progressively misplaced its sheen. The second-generation car sacrificed a few of its go-kart-like dealing with to raised trip, and got here with a extra comfort-oriented and lighter steering. Then, the engaging third-gen car was shorn of the diesel and misplaced loads of heft and really feel. Now, there’s the new fourth-gen Swift. 

On the face of it, the fourth-generation Swift’s three-cylinder engine is one cylinder down and makes 8hp lower than its predecessor’s. But the style during which the engine responds on the transfer—almost immediately and with an excellent dollop of torque—is spectacular. A far cry from the primary gasoline Swift that felt lifeless at low speeds however really made extra energy, this one feels fast on the draw. And that’s simply excellent for the lower and thrust of metropolis visitors. The sturdy push from these large pistons clearly makes their presence felt with the sunshine kerb weight.  

The new Swift even rides effectively, swallowing up all method of unhealthy sections of street, in all probability higher than any Swift earlier than, with the 65-profile tyres serving to right here. The chassis additionally feels stiffer than the sooner Swifts’, like it’s manufactured from harder materials. Even the steering appears to be higher, and whereas it rolls on its India-specific suspension, it feels agile and playful. The engine, nevertheless, doesn’t prefer to rev, and you’ll inform it’s a three-cylinder unit. Overall, the Swift is clearly an impressively engineered and thoughtfully put-together hatch, one that can see a variety of success.

But is it an excellent Swift? That’s a bit extra difficult. Sure, the fourth-gen car crosses over the road and makes the lower (nearly), figuring out as a Swift from the surface and from behind the wheel. That stated, the brand new Swift is nowhere close to the hero car it might have been if it have been quicker, nimbler, extra enjoyable to drive, and cheaper, too. After all, the Swift was born to be an inexpensive, enjoyable hatch. 

What occurs to our icons? Either they stay on—true to their ethos—and flourish (Porsche 911, Jeep Wrangler), or they progressively get watered down, lose focus (to broaden their attraction), and ultimately fade away. So, which means will the Swift go? And don’t say Swift Sport; that’s by no means occurring. Ever.

Also see:

2024 Maruti Swift evaluate: does it follow its ethos

2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift video evaluate