Suzuki is preparing a new generation of its sub-compact hatch and we have the scoop on it
October 23, 2022 at 11:26
by Josh Byrnes
This story contains independent illustrations made by CarScoops’ artist Josh Byrnes based on recent spy shots of the next Swift as well as our own intel. The renders are neither related to nor endorsed by Suzuki.
Superminis or sub-compacts may be out of vogue in North America, yet elsewhere, there’s still a market for anything pint-sized and frugal. Case in point, Suzuki’s Swift. Deemed off-limits for North America, the affordable and cheerful offering has been a standout success in Indian and South African markets, while also being offered in other major markets around the world, including in Europe and Australia.
Not to rest on its laurels, the Japanese automaker is readying a redesigned successor with improved technology and safety. Keen to know more? Read on as we take an illustrative, pre-launch preview.
An Expressive Outlook
Illustrations Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes
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The Swift’s funky-looking ethos continues with the next-generation car retaining a similar silhouette and footprint. A large trapezoidal grille with bold LED headlamps and a C-clamp intake graphic dominates the front end. Further up, a clamshell hood aids in keeping the car visually clean, whilst the windshield sports a faster rake.
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Deeply scalloped lower doors and a chiselled shoulder line emphasize visual dynamism, as does the floating roof effect with its blacked-out pillars. Sadly, the hidden rear door handles of the old car make way for more traditional items positioned lower down, as evidenced by the prototypes we’ve seen undergoing development. The back end sports a neat tailgate spoiler, and the taillight outline is reminiscent of the first and second-generation models.
Cabin Comforts
Pictured above is a recently sighted prototype 2024 Suzuki Swift testing in Europe, while below we see the current generation model’s interior.
The current Swift’s relatively low entry price also mirrors its extensive use of cheaper materials within the cabin. Reports suggest the new car will somewhat redeem itself with higher quality plastics and fabrics. Don’t expect significant improvements in occupant space, as it retains similar dimensions to the outgoing 3rd gen car that’s up to (depending on the trim model) 3,890 mm (153.1 in) long, 1,735 mm (68.3 in) wide, and 1,500 mm (59.1 in) tall riding on a 2,450mm (96.0 in) wheelbase.
A larger infotainment screen will feature the automaker’s new SmartPlay Pro + system with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, ‘Hi Suzuki’ voice assist, and OTA (over-the-air updates). Expect improved driver assists with a 360 view camera, full-range adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition in select markets.
Platform and Powertrains
Underpinning the new Swift will be a revised version of Suzuki’s Heartect platform that serves duty under everything from the cube-like Ignis to the Baleno small hatch. Expect safety improvements to include a more robust crash structure and front seat center airbag to aid protection between occupants in a side impact collision.
Unconfirmed reports indicate the 2023 Swift will be offered with a 1.2-liter, normally aspirated petrol engine and mild hybrid tech. For those wanting more firepower, the Swift Sport variant will again feature a mild-hybrid 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbo four, sending power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual (or a CVT for those that love that doughy feel), with at least 130 horses.
Rivals and Reveal
Illustrations Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes
Depending on the market, the Swift competes against rivals such as Toyota’s Yaris, Honda Jazz/Fit, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra, Volkswagen Polo, Peugeot 208, and Skoda Fabia.
Read: 2024 Suzuki Swift Makes Spy Debut Showing Evolutionary Styling
Industry pundits indicate that the budget-friendly Swift could make its global debut as early as this year, with sales kicking off in the first half of 2023. The slightly beefier Sport model should follow a few months later.
Should Suzuki’s Swift come to the US? We’d love to know what you think in the comments below.
Illustrations Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes
