The new Suzuki Swift could be revealed this year, but don’t expect a huge difference to the outgoing car.
Suzuki looks set to commit to the supermini segment with a new fourth-generation Swift, spied testing in Europe for the first time ahead of its anticipated launch next year, with Australia a likely market once again.
The current Swift received a mid-life refresh only in 2021, having been brought out in 2017. It sits on Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform (which debuted in 2014 on the Alto) which has been able to support the model’s switch to mild-hybrid power in 12-volt and 48-volt form. The new Swift will likely carry this platform forward, so don’t expect a fully-electrified Swift to rival the Peugeot e-208 just yet.
Suzuki has partnered with Toyota to provide plug-in hybrid versions of its Swace wagon and Across SUV (both of which are rebadged Toyotas), but we’re not certain this partnership will extend to a plug-in hybrid Swift. Given the Swift Sport’s move to mild-hybridisation, we expect the hot hatch variant will continue as the range-topping Swift for the fourth-generation.
In terms of styling, this is our first look at the new Swift, and the spy shots provide a strong glimpse as to how the car’s design will evolve. The MINI-like, curvy bodystyle won’t be overhauled too much but it will get an entirely new front end. There’s a revised grille, round headlight design and a clamshell bonnet.
At the side the rear door handle has been given a more conventional position on the door, rather than on the rear pillar like the current car. Like the current model, the window line wraps around the whole car. The rear also doesn’t look too far removed from the third-generation Swift with similarly sized and shaped rear lights, boot lid and bumper.
The interior of the Swift is also not likely to change too much. Top-spec models get a seven-inch touchscreen, which could become the standard across the range, but the overall layout and cabin space will remain similar given the retention of the platform.
Suzuki hasn’t revealed any details for a full reveal, but we expect the new car to go on sale sometime in 2023.
Alastair Crooks