Suzuki Swift Hybrid: Here’s the low-down

What is it?

Among a plethora of petrol/electric powertrains, Suzuki has taken a different approach with the ‘hybrid lite’ fifth generation Swift.

Unlike some other EVs, where the electric motor can drive the wheels independently, the ISG in the top-selling compact swings into action to give the petrol engine extra shove when the accelerator is pressed.

Taking power from a lithium-ion battery that is recharged when the brakes are applied, the ISG also kicks in under hard acceleration to cut the demand on the fuel supply.

The petrol engine, too, has been replaced by a new unit delivering increased 10 per cent more low-speed torque.

What’s it cost?

New Swift comes in four variants, featuring either a CVT or five-speed manual transmission.

Prices start at $24,490 for the entry-level manual, with the CVT adding $1000.

Top-rated GLX, our test vehicle, is $27,990.

Looks are generally within the small-car playbook, the latest model sporting 16-inch machined alloy wheels, a new-style piano black grille and L-shaped lights that merge into flowing body lines.

Side, back door and roof spoilers are standard.

Swift Hybrid is stocked in pure pearl white but has the option of being ordered in the colours of the Hybrid Plus and GLX.

These include premium silver metallic, flame orange pearl metallic and a two-tone with blue pearl metallic with black pearl roof.

A 9.0-inch infotainment display sits atop the central dashboard offering USB and wifi connections, featuring satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB+ audio.

Also displayed are vehicle performance data, including fuel level, cruising range, warnings and rear-view camera vision.

Other features include steering-wheel-mounted audio and phone controls, trip computer, keyless start, leaving headlight function, privacy glass on rear windows, traffic sign recognition; Type A and C USB ports on the Swift Hybrid Plus and GLX; high beam assist and LED daytime running lights.

While no ANCAP safety score is forthcoming, the new Swift Hybrid incorporates active and passive safety systems, stamping the fifth generation as the safest on record.

These come within Suzuki’s Heartect platform which leads compact car design in dispersing impact energy in a crash.

An active safety ‘squad’ made up of lane keep assist, lane departure assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitors, traffic sign recognition and more.

This is on top of the ubiquitous electronic stability system, anti-lock brakes and brakeforce distribution.

Airbags include front dual, front side and curtain.

What’s it go like?

The Swift Hybrid maintains the wheelbase, width and height of its predecessor, but gains 15mm in length and more cargo space.

There’s 265 litres with the rear seat backs upright, 589 litres with them folded – through the push-back of the rear hatch.

However, rear seat leg room is left wanting.

Inside, the black and grey colour scheme pulls together all elements of the driver’s controls.

Front seats have been reshaped and carry a new design of panelling.

Despite the new engine being the same capacity as the previous motor, it delivers 10 per cent more torque at a low 3000 rpm.

Peak power is almost on equal terms.

When the Swift pulls up at an intersection or traffic lights the ICE automatically shuts down, saving fuel, while the lithium-ion battery continues to power electrical components.

The ISG functions as a starter motor after automatic stops and further supplements power for up to 30 seconds.

The system checks charges of the lithium-ion and lead acid batteries automatically and chips in to charge either when needed.

The ISG also uses kinetic energy of deceleration to generate electrical charging of both batteries.

Brake pedal depression is monitored to maximise the level of regeneration.

There is manual adjustment in flattish seats with height movement for the driver, and heating for both front seats.

Tilt-and-reach steering wheel adjustment make for a comfortable driving position.

Unfortunately, a front-centre armrest has been … well, rested, with small cupholders now in the centre.

Needless to say, with a three-cylinder engine of 1197cc (60.8kW at 5700rpm) overtaking with the test vehicle was restrained.

But low-down pulling power (111.8Nm at 4500rpm) plus the benefit of the ISG, had the CVT automatic transmission making reasonable time off the mark.

Nothing outstanding.

While the underbody now incorporates for the first time sound deadening material designed to minimise engine, transmission and road vibration in the passenger cabin there is still some intrusion when the Swift is wound up.

Fuel consumption is claimed by Suzuki to be 3.8L/100km on the combined urban/highway cycle.

On the week of testing the best obtained from the Swift Hybrid GLX was 3.5L/100km.

All Swift Hybrids are covered by a five-year warranty, which also takes in the lithium-ion battery.

What we like?

• More low-down torque
• Very low fuel consumption

What we don’t like?

• Flattish seats
• No safety rating yet
• No increase in rear legroom 

The bottom line?

Congested city streets and narrow country roads are the natural environment of the Swift Hybrid GLX.

Add to this the less-than $30K price tag and fulsome fuel economy and the Suzuki compact should continue on its winning ways with buyers.

Suzuki considers major rivals to include MG3, Mazda 2 and Yaris across all age brackets, probably with those looking for a little more room as in the new Swift.

 

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