The Suzuki Swift has gone (mild) hybrid only

By topgear, 14 September 2020

Regular TopGear.com readers will know we’ve liked the Suzuki Swift for well over a decade now. Since its stylish mid-2000s rebirth, in fact. This latest version will hope to continue that, with subtle design changes and hybrid power.

While it may look much the same as the outgoing model, the devil is in the detail, with revised front-end styling including a new headlight design and grille. All models now feature LED front and rear lights, previously reserved for top-spec SZ5 models.

The most noticeable change comes under the bonnet, though. Like the rest of Suzuki’s range, it’s going hybrid-only. Albeit mild hybrid. The new 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine features a 12v energy recuperation system, as introduced earlier this year on the Swift Sport Hybrid.

Figures? Maximum power output is 83hp, 107Nm of torque, and a 0–100km/h time of 12.2 seconds. Not so Swift. CO2 emissions start from 111g/km, with claimed fuel economy of 4.9l/100km for the manual model.

Potentially handy, given the Jimny 4x4 is the one Suzuki which hasn’t gained hybrid power, cutting it from price lists. Save for a limited-run commercial version…

STORY Peter Rawlins

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