Accessibility Page Navigation
Style sheets must be enabled to view this page as it was intended.
Used Car Stock
Advanced Search
Virtual Driveway

Use our virtual driveway to keep a check of your favourite searches

Sign Up Now
Dealerships

SMC have an
extensive dealer networkFind Your Nearest Dealer

Motability

Suzuki Swift Hatchback 1.3 DDiS

For:
The Swift gives you 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 isn't an option on the 1.3-litre models



Performance

The 91bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine provides good performance, even if it does get a bit thrashy at times. The 100bhp 1.5-litre is gutsy and provides more pace than many more expensive rivals. The Sport version uses a 123bhp 1.6 that feels very quick, but the 1.5 is fast enough, and is considerably cheaper. The 1.3 diesel engine is also surprisingly speedy and refined - great if you do lots of miles a year.

Ride & handling

The Swift feels nimble around town, although the steering could do with a little more feel. On faster roads it handles and grips keenly, but it's ultimately not as composed as the class leaders. The ride isn't as supple as the best, either, and larger bumps thump through the cabin. The Sport model has firmer suspension and, although it's fun, it's not as focused as some rivals.

Refinement

Wind noise is present at cruising pace, but road noise isn't too much of a distraction. The petrol engines are raucous when pushed hard, though, and drone a bit at speed. The diesel is smooth. 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, most Swift models undercut their rivals by quite a margin. Discounts from the list price aren't as big as some, however, and the 1.5 engine pushes up insurance costs. The 1.3-litre diesel engine is extremely frugal. All petrols return mid-40s mpg, except the Sport - so it's even harder to justify the initial extra expense of that model.

Quality & reliability

The Swift's cabin is stylish and solid throughout. The plastics are hard - unlike the soft-touch finish on some rivals - but close-fitting panels, slick controls and plenty of thoughtful touches give the feel of a product that's built to last. Like most Suzukis, we expect the Swift to be reliable.

Safety & security

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

Behind the wheel

The Swift's driving position is good and all-round visibility is excellent, but unlike many superminis, the steering wheel doesn't adjust for reach. The backrest adjuster is also a little fiddly, and although the dashboard is simple and well laid out, the central digital display can be hard to read in strong sunlight.

Space & practicality

It's not the most spacious car in its class, but the Swift provides decent room for four, plus a boot capable of coping with a couple of suitcases. Added flexibility comes from rear seats that split and fold 60/40, and tumble forward behind the front seats to boost load capacity.

Equipment

Entry-level 1.3 GL models come well equipped for the money with power steering, electric front windows and remote central locking. Moving up to the 1.5 GLX adds air-conditioning, keyless entry and start-up, plus alloy wheels. The Sport adds climate control, 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)

39

Typical Contract Hire Rate (pcm)

£266

Pence Per Mile

30.16

Servicing Cost over 3yrs

£1059

Servicing Intervals

9000

Manufacturers Warranty

3yr/60k + 12yr Perforation + 3yr Breakdown

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

View the What Car? Road Test for: