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Motability

Suzuki Swift Hatchback 1.3 DDiS

For:
With the Swift you get lots of power and kit for the money. It's fun to drive and stylish, too.

Against:
There is limited luggage space and air-con is not an option on the 1.3 models.



Performance

The 91bhp 1.3-litre engine provides good performance, while the 100bhp 1.5-litre is gutsy and provides more pace than many more expensive rivals. The Sport model uses a 123bhp 1.6 and feels quick, but the 1.5 is fast enough and a lot cheaper. The 1.3 diesel engine is also surprisingly speedy and refined - great if you drive a lot of miles.

Ride & handling

The Swift feels nimble and responsive around town, although the steering could do with a little more initial feel. On faster roads it handles and grips keenly too, although it's not as composed as a Renault Clio. The ride isn't as supple as the best, either, and larger bumps thump through the cabin.

Refinement

Wind noise is present at cruising pace, but road noise isn't too much of a distraction. The petrol engines are also settled at speed, but become a little raucous when pushed hard. The diesel is smooth and revs sweetly. A short, accurate gearshift and well weighted pedals help take the strain out of driving around town or in heavy traffic.

Buying & owning

Considering the power and equipment that it offers, the Swift's list price already undercuts many rivals'. Discounts from the list price aren't as large as some other manufacturers', though. The 1.3-litre diesel engine is extremely frugal but with the petrol cars returning mid-40s mpg you'll need to cover lots of miles to justify the extra expense of diesel power.

Quality & reliability

The cabin ambience is a level higher than in previous budget Suzukis. Some of the materials are better than others, but close-fitting panels, slick lightweight controls and a smartly designed dashboard conspire to give the feel of a product that's built to last. Just as encouragingly, like most Suzukis, we expect the Swift to prove reliable.

Safety & security

The Swift scores highly here and even the base model comes with twin front, side and curtain airbags. Anti-lock brakes are standard, but only the Sport gets traction and stability control. The Swift earned four stars in NCAP crash tests and both trim levels have deadlocks to help thwart thieves.

Behind the wheel

Although no match for rivals such as the Honda Jazz, the Swift's cabin is well laid out, smartly styled and solidly constructed. Slotting into tight spaces is a doddle thanks to fine visibility, but a greater range of seating adjustment and a steering wheel that adjusts for reach would improve the driving position.

Space & practicality

There is realistic room for four, plus a boot capable of coping with a couple of suitcases. Added flexibility comes in the shape of rear seats that split-fold 60/40 and tumble forward behind the front seats to boost load capacity.

Equipment

Entry 1.3 GL models come well equipped for the money with power steering, electric front windows and remote central locking. The 1.5 GLX adds air-conditioning, keyless entry and start-up plus alloy wheels. The Sport has all that plus climate and stability control, and an MP3-ready stereo.

Running Costs

Town mpg

49.6

Out of Town mpg

70.6

Average mpg

61.4

Tank Capacity (gallons)

9.9

CO2 Rating (g/km)

119

Insurance Group

4

Typical Insurance Quote

£323

% Value Retained (3yrs/36,000mls)

37

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£0

Pence Per Mile

33.86

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£1059

Servicing Intervals

9000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 12yr Perforation

Performance & Measurements

Body type

Hatchback

Number of Doors

5

Number of Seats

5

Engine (cc/type)

1248/4

Fuel Type

Diesel

Max Power (bhp/rpm)

68/4000

Engine Position

F

Driven Wheels

Front

Length (mm)

3695

Width (mm)

1690

Height (mm)

1500

Boot Space (min ltr)

N/A

Boot Space (max ltr)

562

Turning Circle (m)

9.4

Towing Weight(kg)

1000

Kerb Weight (kg)

1125

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