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Suzuki Swift

Suzuki Swift Sport

Suzuki’s new Swift Sport is nippy enough and insurance friendly

Text: Chris Thorp / Photos: Pete Gibson

September 2006

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In the world of performance superminis, it seems 200bhp models are all the rage, and low-powered hot hatches are falling out of favour. But with insurance costs spiralling, there are plenty of buyers who lust after cars like the Renaultsport Clio 197, yet can’t justify the running costs.

 
First impressions are that the Sport is great fun. With its relatively low power, it doesn’t struggle for traction and is really enjoyable to drive
Suzuki’s new Swift Sport aims to fill the gap by having all the looks of a fully fledged GTi, but an insurance-friendly 123bhp.

Auto Express played a hand in its development when we drove an early prototype in Japan. So, how has the finished product turned out?

First impressions are that the Sport is great fun. With its relatively low power, it doesn’t struggle for traction and is really enjoyable to drive within the legal limit. While the suspension is stiff and turn-in eager, body roll becomes an issue, and this can be unnerving.

After a few miles, however, you gain confidence in the Suzuki’s abilities, and the chassis loves to be pushed hard through corners.

Yet where Ford’s Fiesta Zetec S provides consistently precise feedback through the steering wheel, the Swift is vague, which takes the edge off its B-road abilities.

On long journeys, the hard suspension gives a bouncy motorway ride. The buzzy engine and short gearing don’t help, the motor revving at 4,000rpm at these speeds. So while performance is sprightly, the unit has to be worked hard.

The Suzuki will cost £11,500 when it goes on sale in October. It’s a better-quality package than Citroen’s C2 VTS, yet can’t match the Zetec S for dynamics. Still, as an old-school hot hatch, the Swift Sport is sure to be a hit.

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For an alternative review of the latest Suzuki Swift visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

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FIRST OPINION

    Wind the clock back 10 years and all hot hatches were like this – fun, feisty and affordable. But as power hikes raise list prices and insurance costs, so Suzuki’s less extreme performance car is a breath of fresh air. Body control isn’t great and the steering lacks feel, but the Swift Sport is a high-quality, top-value alternative.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Engine's variable valve timing keeps running costs in check by contributing to 37.7mpg economy. And the three-door-only Swift sits in insurance group 9D.
    Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 123bhp
    Price: £11,500 (est)
     
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