Fleet World Workshop Tools
Car Tax Calculator
CO2 Calculator
Van Tax Calculator
BiK Rates Company Car Tax

Road Test: Suzuki Swift Sport

By / 3 years ago / Road Tests / No Comments

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hybridised Swift Sport cuts costs, but its increased price could be an issue, thinks Martyn Collins.

SECTOR: Supermini PRICE: £21,820 FUEL (WLTP): 50.1mpg CO2 (WLTP): 127g/km

As part of Suzuki’s plan to introduce mild-hybrid models, its Swift Sport ‘warm’ hatch has benefited from the addition of a new 48V mild-hybrid powertrain.

We say ‘benefit’, as Combined WLTP fuel consumption is up to 50.1mpg, a 6% improvement. Plus, torque is up to 234Nm and CO2 emissions drop to 127g/km.

However, the addition of the hybrid system sadly means a power drop from 138 to 127hp and 0-60 acceleration takes a second longer at 9.1 seconds too. Disappointingly, the weight is also up by 25kg.

Outside, apart from the small ‘Hybrid’ badge on the boot, you would be hard-pressed to spot the difference over the outgoing Sport, which debuted back in 2018. There’s the same subtle body kit, attractive 17-inch alloy wheels and the well-equipped interior is unchanged but with extra safety kit including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and traffic sign recognition.

On the road, as expected, the Swift Sport Hybrid doesn’t feel as urgent from the off as the non-hybrid car – so you have to work it to perform. Still, the extra bit of torque is noticeable and means you don’t have to row your way up or down the six-speed manual gearbox quite so much.

Another positive is that the extra weight of the hybrid system adds a level of composure to the ride that wasn’t there before. The steering also seems more responsive, too.

The biggest problem with the Suzuki Swift Sport Hybrid in our opinion is the price, which at £21,570 puts it on a collision course with Ford’s hot hatch hero, the Fiesta ST, which is actually cheaper and has less driving compromises than the sportiest Swift – which is a shame. Suzuki’s supermini remains an excellent car though.

FW Rating: 3/5

For more of the latest industry news, click here.

Martyn Collins

Martyn has 18 years experience as a motoring journalist, working across a wide selection of B2B and consumer titles. A car enthusiast since his early years, Martyn has a particular interest in the latest models and technology and in his spare time enjoys driving his own Minis.