Suzuki Swift Sport Hybrid what we like what we don't | pros and cons
Now in its sixth declination, Swift is a compact two-volume that has been available on the market for over 30 years; during this very long period, the Japanese manufacturer has managed to radically change it, even introducing electrified engines closer to the environment and what the anti-pollution regulations now impose. The sixth series, the subject of this test, was officially presented at the 87th Geneva Motor Show in March 2017 and is still available today.
Built on the Heartect platform, the same as Suzuki Baleno and Ignis, it benefits from some small features that have allowed it to stop at about 900 kg in weight, depending on the version examined. Suzuki Swift can be purchased in different engines, mostly inherited from the models of the same brand, including the Sport variant, now also Hybrid, with 129 horsepower subject to this test.
Before analyzing in detail the aspects we were most excited about, it is necessary to make a premise with respect to the previous model, Sport, without a hybrid module. The past declination, in fact, benefited from the same engine with a power of 140 horsepower and a slightly lower weight; in other words Suzuki, to comply with the anti-pollution rules and avoid following the same path as Jimny (ie the change of homologation), has sought the best formula to not compromise the weight and, at the same time, the fun. Fans more linked to the brand could turn up their noses here, but the manufacturer has managed to balance the weights well and despite the change in power supply, the Swift Sport Hybrid today represents a rather fun car.| ); }
Among the other elements we appreciated, we find the propulsion system and the driving dynamics of a peppery compact (despite the 129 horsepower). The engine, 1.4 turbo hybrid with 129 horsepower, was entirely developed in the Suzuki house and allows, at the same time, fun and reduced fuel consumption. The 48V electric part produces energy in support of the endothermic engine, providing a constant thrust from 2,000 to 3,000 rpm offering a noticeable thrust on the seat.
What does not convince us
Although Suzuki has spent time and resources in developing a new engine closer to the environment, the manufacturer does not seem to have renewed at the time same interior too; the latter, in fact, we would have appreciated them with softer and "noble" materials. In any case, we believe that the brand has decided to leave them unchanged to balance the price increase given by the inclusion of the hybrid unit that notoriously raises the final price of the car.Another aspect that has left us with a bitter taste is the entertainment system which shows information on a small display and not directly connected to the multifunction display installed in front of the steering wheel. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work fine, without problems or jamming. To nitpick, there is another small aspect that left us "surprised"; the absence of a gear indicator. It is not possible to know which gear is engaged.
How to drive
Swift Sport Hybrid, as anticipated, is a peppery compact, fun and easy to use every day; the set-up is rigid but not too much, while the steering wheel and the numerous driving controls allow for pleasant use without too many limitations. Also interesting is the presence of an Adaptive Cruise Control, a real treat if we think that the car is equipped with a manual gearbox.Consumption is unique in the segment since the engine is a small mechanical jewel; Suzuki has thought of everything in this context by integrating short-length intake ducts and exhaust manifolds integrated into the engine head to optimize combustion. In addition, the westgate, the valve responsible for controlling the pressure of the turbine, has also been modified, here with variable opening in relation to the gas.
In other words, with reduced speeds, the valve remains open, while at full-gas it closes completely to increase the pressure and favor the turbo. Despite the engine structure, the Swift Sport Hybrid consumes in all respects like a naturally aspirated and in our mixed mileage, of over 1,000 km, we recorded an enviable average of 19 km / l.
