For the first time, Suzuki's Swift Sport features a turbocharged motor.
Gone is the rev-happy 1.6-litre naturally aspirated mill from the previous generation. It's now been replaced by a turbocharged 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine also used in the Suzuki Vitara. In this application it produces 103kw and 230nm. While power only increases by 3kw, the 70nm bump is the big 'torquing' point here.
Suzuki has also trimmed some weight off the SSS, shedding 80kgs from the outgoing model, with kerb weight now standing at a sub one-tonne weight of 970kg. While the Suzuki Swift Sport has lost weight, the car has grown substantially, with the wheelbase increased by 20mm, and the width by 40mm, all aiding stability and rigidity.
In terms of aesthetics, there are more defined side skirts and at the rear end a pronounced black diffuser and two large exhausts exiting. New diamond-cut designed silver and black aluminium alloy wheels are also unique to the Sport, while interior changes include upgraded front sports seats, red detail trimming and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The new Swift Sport aims to once again be the best value hot hatch on the local market, building on the strengths of its predecessor while incorporating the latest technology as well as an enhanced specification.
While Suzuki SA plans to introduce the new Swift range before the middle of 2018, they have yet to confirm when the third-generation Swift Sport will land on our shores.
