The fourth-generation Suzuki Swift is an appealing choice for those seeking a well-equipped, high-value supermini that’s a lot of fun to drive. It doesn’t have the depth of choice offered by some rivals, but that’s very much in line with the Japanese brand’s no-nonsense approach to specification and pricing. If reliable, efficient urban motoring with a dash of style is what you’re after, then the latest Swift builds on the model’s established formula. It’s particularly popular with younger drivers and is a great value alternative to models such as the Volkswagen Polo, Nissan Micra, Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, and Hyundai i20.
The Suzuki Swift is a small car with a big personality. The looks are quite polarising, but if you like it, then it’s a great car to own and drive, with a nimble chassis and a lively mild-hybrid powertrain. While not the most luxurious or high-tech in the segment, the Swift’s honest approach, low running costs and immense character give it a unique appeal.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioBrand-new Suzuki Swift models start from £19,699 for the entry-level Motion Hybrid, with top-spec Ultra models reaching £22,049 for the Ultra AllGrip model. The entire range is competitively priced, offering better value than most rivals, with a generous list of standard safety and convenience features.
On the used market, nearly new Swifts can be found from around £13,000, with older examples available for less. Residual values are above average, thanks to Suzuki’s reputation for reliability and friendly, family-focused dealer network.
The latest Swift keeps its engine line-up straightforward, centred around a 1.2-litre Dualjet mild hybrid petrol unit. This three-cylinder engine produces 83bhp and 112Nm of torque, aided by a 12V mild hybrid system for improved efficiency and smoother stop-start operation.
It offers lively enough performance for urban and A-road driving, with a 0-62 mph time of 12.2 seconds when paired with the five-speed manual gearbox. A CVT automatic is also available for those who prefer the convenience of two pedals.
Suzuki’s AllGrip four-wheel drive system is optionally available on higher trims, giving the Swift a rare edge among small hatchbacks. There are no diesel or full-hybrid versions, keeping things simple for buyers.
The Suzuki Swift delivers a light, agile and enjoyable driving experience, with well-weighted steering and a nimble chassis that makes town driving and parking a breeze.
Its compact dimensions and tight turning circle are ideal for urban environments, while the ride remains surprisingly comfortable on longer motorway runs.
The engine is refined at low speeds, and the mild-hybrid system works seamlessly in the background. Visibility is good, thanks to large windows and slim pillars, and all models come with a reversing camera and sensors as standard.
The Swift’s suspension is set up to strike a balance between comfort and driver engagement, and it’s a lot more fun to drive than many of its rivals as a result. It soaks up potholes and bumps well for a small car, while offering an impressive sense of composure through corners that will satisfy keen drivers, despite the car’s modest ambitions.
Power delivery is smooth and linear, and while it might not look especially quick on paper, the responsiveness of the mild-hybrid system means it never really runs out of steam – it’s a well-engineered and responsive car overall.
Body roll is well contained, and the lightweight build makes the Swift feel responsive and eager. There are no selectable driving modes, but the car’s natural agility shines through, with four-wheel drive models offering extra assurance in poor weather, as well as greater grip on twisty roads.
Inside, the Swift offers a smart and functional layout, with an emphasis on practicality. The dashboard is dominated by a seven-inch touchscreen on most trims, supporting smartphone connectivity and DAB radio. The infotainment system is intuitive, though not as advanced or as flashy as in some competitors.
Cabin materials are robust and easy to clean, though there’s a prevalence of hard plastics. The seats provide good support, and there’s ample headroom and legroom for four adults, although a fifth may find it a squeeze. Isofix mounts are present on the outer rear seats for child safety.
All Swifts come with cloth trim – there’s no leather option, and it lacks some of the more luxurious options that are available on some of its rivals. This is reflected in the trim levels and pricing structure, but it does mean that it lacks some of the tech and plushness seen in other superminis. If you’re not bothered by such things, then this won’t be a major problem.
The Suzuki Swift’s boot offers 265 litres with the rear seats up, expanding to 579 litres when the 60:40 split rear bench is folded.
While that’s far from the largest in the class, it’s a usable, square-shaped space with a wide opening. In-cabin storage is decent, with deep door bins, a glovebox, cupholders, and a useful shelf beneath the dashboard.
All Swift models are well-equipped, with the entry-level Motion offering air conditioning, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a full suite of safety features as standard.
The Ultra trim adds satellite navigation, keyless entry, climate control, and enhanced styling. Options are limited, in line with Suzuki’s simplified approach, but useful extras like metallic paint and advanced safety packs are available.
The Swift is available in two well-equipped and distinctive trim levels: Motion and Ultra, both of which are available with either manual or CVT automatic transmission.
The entry-level Motion trim is impressively equipped for its segment. It features air conditioning, LED headlights, alloy wheels and a reversing camera.
Safety kit includes adaptive cruise control, six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, and driver monitoring.
The Ultra adds a larger touchscreen infotainment system with satellite navigation, climate control, keyless entry and enhanced styling details.
Notably, the Ultra trim is available with Suzuki’s AllGrip technology as an option, offering four-wheel drive capability not seen elsewhere in the class.
Colour choices are broad, including striking options such as Burning Red, Pure White Pearl, Premium Silver, Mineral Grey, Speedy Blue, and Super Black Pearl, allowing buyers to personalise their Swift to taste.
The latest Suzuki Swift has yet to be tested by Euro NCAP, but it should hopefully perform better than its predecessor, which only scored a three-star rating.
Key safety features include six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control, and driver monitoring. Some advanced systems are limited to higher trims or as options.
Suzuki’s reputation for reliability is well established, with the Swift’s simple, proven engineering and strong owner feedback on durability and low repair costs.
The Swift Hybrid returns between 54.3 and 59.7 mpg (WLTP), making it one of the most economical non-plug-in superminis. CO₂ emissions are low, ranging from 106 to 111 g/km, and annual road tax (VED) is £195 (2025/26) for all models.
Insurance costs are sensible, with groups from 20-25, and servicing is required every 12 months or 12,500 miles.
Suzuki provides a three-year/60,000-mile warranty, with the option of extended cover at extra cost.
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