Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
>>The new Maruti Swift is longer and wider than the older Swift. Though the design is
very similar to the older model, it is in fact an all new design.
The headlamps are longer and the bonnet and grille are different.
The rear view mirrors get integrated turn indicators.
The boot area has shed some weight and the tail-lights get a new look.
The new Swift now comes in six variants – three petrol and three diesel. The Swift ZXI we
drove is the top-end petrol variant. Competition: Hyundai i20, Volkswagen Polo,
Skoda Fabia, Toyota Liva, Ford Figo It still competes with the Hyundai i20, Volkswagen
Polo, Skoda Fabia, Toyota Liva and Ford Figo. But in terms of performance, we think the
Swift is the best of the lot. The new petrol Swift now features variable
valve timing on its 1.2 litre K-Series engine. This has increased power to 86 bhp and torque
to 114 newton meters. The gearbox has been improved and is now even
better than before, with very smooth shift action.
Maruti claims the car can give up to 18.6 kilometers per litre, but during our short
test drive we got about 12.8 kilometers per litre.
Handling has always been the Swift’s strong point, and we’re happy to report the new
Swift is even better than before. The electronic power steering weighs up nicely and gives
a precise feel of the road. Driving through city traffic is easy with
good all round visibility. The car feels peppy and can zoom to 100 kilometers
per hour in about 12.6 seconds The suspension is stiff and well-balanced,
and the car feels planted on turns. The brakes feature a new ABS unit and are
quite sharp. The interiors of the Swift have been freshened
up, although it still uses a predominantly grey color theme.
The dashboard is an all new design, with an integrated audio system and automatic climate
control unit that takes inspiration from the Kizashi’s dashboard. The car also features
steering audio controls and USB and Aux inputs. The instrument panel features a multi-information
display between the speedometer and tachometer that shows outside temperature, range, average
fuel consumption and trip-meters. The ZXI variant also has dual front airbags
and a pop-out cupholder on the passenger’s side. Door pockets are deep and can store
1-litre water bottles. The outside mirrors are now electrically adjustable.
The car also features speed-sensing door locks. The driver gets a height adjustable seat and
tilt-adjustable steering for that perfect driving position.
Rear seat legroom has been increased by about 28 millimeters, but it’s still not very
comfortable for three people because of the high transmission tunnel in the middle.
Boot space is slightly lower than the older Swift. The rear seat can only be folded flat
and is not a split-folding seat to increase luggage space.
Overall, the new Swift is a vastly improved car. The car is more refined and has a few
more features than the older car. It will appeal to buyers who want great performance
and handling. The Swift is a sprightly hatchback that’s eager to please.