Suzuki confirms all-new Swift for Oz

SUZUKI Australia has confirmed that its next-generation Swift light car is locked in for the local market.

Following the recent global announcement revealing sales will commence in Asian and European markets, the news that the all-new Suzuki Swift is headed Down Under is one that comes without detail related to specification and pricing, Suzuki Australia saying that news will be announced in due course.

Designed around Suzuki’s “Energetic & Light” concept, the model is said to offer an evolved level of driving performance and ride comfort, excellent fuel efficiency achieved by a newly developed engine and continuously variable transmission combinations, and the latest in safety and driver assistance technology.

“With its rich heritage of performance, reliability, and style, the Swift has consistently set benchmarks in the automotive industry,” said Suzuki Australia general manager, Michael Pachota.

“As we introduce the latest model, we'll proudly carry forward the legacy of its nameplate which symbolises fun, innovation, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional driving experience.”

Speaking to GoAuto last month, an anonymous source said the new Suzuki Swift is expected to dock locally in June.

Information released on the model thus far show a solitary engine offering – Suzuki’s Z12E-series 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol with 48-volt MHEV assistance – will be made available across all markets paired with six-speed manual or continuously variable transmissions.

Interestingly, and depending on market, the Swift will be available in front- and all-wheel drive configurations.

There is no word yet on the possibility of a new Swift Sport.

Slightly longer and narrower than before, the 2024 Suzuki Swift measures 3860mm in length (+15mm), 1695mm in width (-40mm) and 1500mm in height (+5mm). It rides on the same 2450mm wheelbase as the outgoing model.

Stylistically, the Suzuki Swift adheres closely to the design of the current model. The rear door handles have been relocated from the pillar to the door, while the panel work and frontal treatment is slightly sharper than before, giving the Swift a more aggressive face.

The rear of the vehicle is chunkier in its styling with a more pronounced bumper and tail-lights taking advantage of the vehicle’s extra length.

In Japan, the Suzuki Swift will be offered in a range of nine colours including black, blue, grey, orange, red and yellow. A contrasting black roof is offered optionally on four of those hues.

Inside, the Swift features an updated décor and enhanced infotainment array replete with Suzuki Connect connected vehicle services. A 9.0-inch touchscreen array sits central on the dashboard offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as Suzuki Connect and native satellite navigation on higher trim grades.

Seating is more heavily bolstered than before with new-look upholstery and trim garnishing range-wide. The model also adopts an electronic park brake in favour of the manual unit offered previously, hinting at additional features such as brake hold and hill hold functionality.

These features are expected to join an enhanced array of safety technologies utilising a combination of camera-, radar- and ultrasonic-based sensors including AEB with cyclist, motorcyclist and pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go functionality, adaptive high beam, blind spot monitoring, driver attention monitoring, lane centring and lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert and reverse AEB, surround-view camera, and traffic sign recognition.

Pricing and local specification for the 2024 Suzuki Swift is expected to be announced closer to the model’s Australian launch. The Suzuki Swift range is currently priced from $22,490 to $30,990 depending on grade.