Car review: 2017 Suzuki Swift
The compact Swift has developed a reputation as a small but spacious, fun-to-drive city car with contemporary styling.
Range and value
There were three versions of the Suzuki Swift sold in 2017. If you’re looking for a second-hand car, the pick of the bunch is the middle GL Navigator model, especially if you find one with the safety pack option.
The 2017 Suzuki Swift has held its value incredibly well, only depreciating a couple of thousand dollars. Great news for the seller but not so good if you’re looking to buy a used Swift. The middle version is called the Navigator because it’s the base GL but has a navigation system and CVT automatic transmission instead of the standard five-speed manual gearbox. It also comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a reversing camera.
You can also get the GL Navigator with a safety pack that includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, along with the standard six airbags. The overall value proposition is even better because of the Swift’s frugal fuel consumption.
Design and function
Suzuki specialises in producing small cars, and the Swift is a testament to the Japanese car manufacturer’s skill at making the most of available space. It has great general space and headroom for occupants, yet it’s small enough for everything to be within reach. There’s ample storage space, despite no lidded centre console box. You’ll find three cup holders, bottle holders in the door and a small tray at the bottom of the dashboard. Our friends in the trade say the Suzuki Swift doesn’t have any significant common problems.
On the road
The GL has a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, which is competent and powerful enough for a city car. The CVT transmission is one of the better ones on the market and in this car, Suzuki has sorted the suspension and handling, adding to its popularity and driver confidence.
The Swift is known for its fuel efficiency, with an average fuel consumption of about 5.5 litres per 100km, so it’s also kinder on your wallet.
The bottom line
Small on the outside and big on the inside, with a good level of safety and other tech, the Suzuki Swift is a great car for someone who’s on a budget and mostly drives in the city.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Price (when new) | $17,990 before on-road costs |
| Used-car price range | $13,500 to $16,000 |
| Fuel consumption | 4.6L to 6.5L/100km (91 RON) (depending on model) |
| ANCAP safety rating | 5 stars when new (current Used Car Safety Rating of 3 stars) |
Image: Newspress Australia
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