
In a world full of SUVs and electric vehicles, the small car is slowly but surely dying out. Recently, we’ve seen cars like the Kia Rio and the Nissan Micra being scrapped or becoming electric only. Even the Ford Fiesta ended, which was the best-selling car in its segment! Thankfully, there are still some brands out there that are not giving in to the pressure. One of those brands is Suzuki. But is the new Suzuki Swift good enough to take the Fiesta’s place as the next best small car in the UK?
What’s New On The 2024 Suzuki Swift?
2024 Key Features
- New L-shaped lights
- Bold shoulder line
- Rear door handles moved
- Improved interior
- Less road noise
- 8 colours plus 4 dual-tone options
If you think the new Swift doesn’t look much different to the previous model, you’d be right. Though, there is a good reason why it hasn’t changed too much—Suzuki listens to customer reviews. People love the way the Suzuki looks. It has been here for 40 years now; we know what to expect. However, there have been major improvements beneath the surface that fix all the niggles of the older ones.
Firstly, the fourth generation Swift is built on a completely new platform. A wider wheelbase improves stability, and the engine bay has been pushed forward to make more space for passengers inside, without the small car growing too much. Noticeable changes include L-shaped LED headlights, a strong shoulder line around the car, and high-contrast black pillars at the back create a floating roof effect which makes the car appear lighter. However, the best change for me is the repositioning of the rear door handles from the pillars down to a more natural position on the door.
Performance Specifications
Engine | 1.2-litre mild hybrid |
Transmission | 5-speed manual |
Horsepower | 82 HP @ 5,700 RPM |
Torque | 112 Nm @ 4,500 RPM |
Fuel Economy (CMB) | 64.2 MPG |
0-62 MPH | 12.5 Seconds |
Top Speed | 103 MPH |
How does it drive?

The new model Suzuki Swift is still small and nimble. It’s easy to drive around town, and parking is a breeze. The 1.2-litre hybrid engine only puts out 82 bhp, which is not a lot by today’s standards. However, it’s more than enough for the lightweight Swift. During my time with it, I snaked around 20 miles of back roads in the same time that it takes me to do it in my 2-litre car with 187 bhp.
Suzuki also made some adjustments to the steering. It’s subtle, but it is more direct. Combine that with the extended wheelbase and this Suzuki Swift model feels sturdier, unlike the earlier model that felt like a tin can that a gust of wind would blow away. Though, it’s missing something—a sixth gear.
Are Suzuki Swifts Cheap To Run?

Despite only having five gears, it is frugal on fuel. The mild hybrid technology makes the new engine is eight percent more efficient than the previous, with Suzuki claiming up to 64 miles per gallon combined on it. While I didn’t reach that, I averaged 53.7 MPG, which is still incredible. In other words, the Suzuki Swift hatchback can drive from Glasgow to Edinburgh on just £10 of fuel.
Combined | |
EPA Rated Economy: | 64.2 |
Fuel Economy As Tested: | 53.7 |
Interior Design And Comfort
The inside of the new Swift gets an upgrade, too. It’s driver-focused, with the centre console angled towards the driver for ease of use. Immediately obvious is the robust materials finishing the interior and improved soundproofing. Loud road and wind noise was my biggest gripe in the older generations, so I was delighted with this upgrade.
Another thing to note about the new platform is the smaller engine bay. Designers pushed the whole dashboard forward to increase cabin space, with rear passengers benefiting from more legroom than before. The new seats have more cushioning throughout, and the headrests are thicker for added support.
Technology And Ease Of Use
Even the base Motion grade gets a lengthy list of standard equipment. Suzuki proudly shouts about having more standard features than competitors. The Vauxhall Corsa and MG3 have a different mix of tech, but neither have it all. There’s a bigger nine-inch touchscreen display, which has Maps built-in as standard, or you can use your preferred app via wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The Swift Motion also gets keyless entry and keyless start, a reversing camera, parking sensors, and driving aids like adaptive cruise control, auto high beam assist, and lane departure prevention along with advanced safety features. Stepping up to the Suzuki Swift Ultra adds polished alloy wheels, folding mirrors with integrated indicators, and rear heaters for passengers. Would you upgrade to the Ultra trim for a few unnecessary extras? Let me know in the comments below this post. I think this will be an interesting split.
Cargo And Storage Space

The boot space is decent, even though it’s smaller than competitors. It has a wide opening for easy loading, but the deep floor results in a big load lip. If storage space is a priority, the Suzuki Swace may be more suitable.
All seats in place | 265 Litres |
Seats folded | 589 Litres |
How Much Does A Suzuki Swift Cost?

Before I tell the Suzuki Swift price, I want to give you a bit of context around it. A new Vauxhall Corsa Hybrid starts at £18,500, and it has less technology as standard. If you go up the range to the highest model of the Corsa, it’s 25 grand. An MG3 with less tech costs the same as the Corsa. Now, the Motion version of the Suzuki Swift is just slightly over this at £18,699 with the Ultra model staying below £20,000 pounds.
Value for money wise, the Suzuki Swift is unbeatable. I’ve not seen another small car in this price range that has a hybrid engine, excellent fuel economy, loads of tech, and as practical for daily use.
Model | Price |
Suzuki Swift Motion Manual | £18,699 |
Suzuki Swift Motion CVT | £19,949 |
Suzuki Swift Ultra Manual | £19,799 |
Suzuki Swift Ultra CVT | £21,049 |
Suzuki Swift Ultra Four-wheel Drive Manual | £21,049 |
Is It Worth Buying A Suzuki Swift?
Personally, I think Suzuki have nailed this. If you’re in the market for a small, affordable car that’s reliable and cheap to run, the new Swift ticks a lot of boxes. With the demise of the Ford Fiesta, there’s a whole group of drivers that will be looking for a suitable replacement, and I think this is a great alternative. I honestly believe this is going to be the next best-selling small car in the UK.
Which model of Suzuki Swift is best?
Since there are only two trim levels to choose from, this is an easy decision. The Motion trim has everything you need. The Ultra is more cosmetic, but you might find folding mirrors useful if you park on a busy street.
Why was the Suzuki Swift discontinued?
The Suzuki Swift Sport has been discontinued, so the Suzuki range of electric vehicles can expand. The non-sport variant is still in production.
Does Suzuki Swift hold its value?
According to CAP (industry standard) forecast May 2024, the new Suzuki Swift has strong residual values. The Motion grade is expected to hold 52% of its value over four years.
Sources: Suzuki GB PLC