Founded in 1909, Suzuki is a world-renowned automotive brand. The Japanese automaker is known for producing a diverse range of vehicles that have gained momentum for their affordability, reliability and practicality. One such model that catapulted the company’s popularity is Suzuki Swift.
The Suzuki Swift is a versatile compact car that has captured the attention of consumers worldwide, including in the UAE. Advanced features, a reputation for durability and contemporary design are the core features of the Swift. It is one of the most popular used models in the Emirates as per the annual non-luxury 2022 car market report.
That said, let’s walk through Suzuki Swift history, generations and features.
SUZUKI SWIFT OLD MODELS
The history of Suzuki Swift spans several generations with earlier models often referred to as the Suzuki Cultus. These Suzuki Swift old models were produced from the late 1980s to the mid-2000s. They were recognised for their compact size, economical performance and practicality.
Over the years, the Suzuki Cultus underwent design and technological advancements, as per consumer preferences and safety regulations. However, in 2005, the Cultus nameplate for the model was dropped by Suzuki. It was the first time the “Swift” name was given to all models sold in different countries. Since then, it has spread its network around the world. There are also Suzuki showrooms in the UAE for its Emirati consumers.
That said, let’s go through the history of Suzuki Swift, depicting its progress over the years.
SUZUKI SWIFT GENERATIONS
Swift is among the top models by the brand known for its utility. It is a well-known Suzuki fact. Besides, the model is praised for its nimble and responsive handling, making it enjoyable to drive. Let’s now explore the Suzuki Swift history and features.
First Generation Suzuki Swift (2005-2009)
The first generation of Suzuki Swift was the brand’s major step in the compact car segment. The lightweight hatchback featured swept-back headlights, tall door panels and a high greenhouse. It also had A and B pillars in black colour. The Suzuki Swift old models housed a length of 145.5 inches and a wheelbase of 94 inches.
The car interior had tall seats that offered enough legroom for front and rear passengers. Suzuki used the kei-car experience which provided an adequate driving position for most customers.
For petrol engines, the Swift was offered two options. All of them were offered as an AWD system or FWD. These included:
- A 1.3-litre engine paired with a five-speed automatic or manual transmission. It produced 92 horsepower.
- A 1.5-litre engine mated with a five-speed manual transmission. It generated 102 horsepower.
Second Generation Suzuki Swift (2010-2016)
The second generation in the Suzuki Swift history rolled out in 2010. It was offered as a three and five-door compact car. The car housed a sporty appearance with raked A-pillars and triangular headlights. The hood and rear were given rounded edges with a slim car grille on the front. Moreover, the five-door version was equipped with split windows on the rear doors with short front doors.
On the inside, the high-mounted seats provided ample space for rear passengers. The cabin featured an infotainment system unit, a climate control system and an instrument cluster in Japanese design. A rear split-folding bench was also added.
The second-generation models of the Swift drew power from a 1.2-litre inline engine that generated 94 horsepower. It could be paired with a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission.
Second Generation Suzuki Swift Facelift (2014)
Both the five and three-door versions of Suzuki Swift received a facelift in 2014. The model became the brand’s core model due to its great fuel efficiency and handling. It was now offered as an all-wheel drive vehicle.
The facelifted version featured LED daytime running lamps in the lower bumper. The overall design and interior had no significant changes. However, the engine line-up included the following options.
- A 1.2-litre engine paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed manual transmission. It produced 94 horsepower.
- A 1.2-litre ECO engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission, generating 94 horsepower.
- A 1.6-litre engine producing 136 horsepower. It was paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Third Generation Suzuki Swift (2016- Present)
The next and current generation in the Suzuki Swift history was unveiled in 2016. Also, a sport version of Suzuki Swift debuted in 2017 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
The third-generation Suzuki Swift is a subcompact hatchback built on the HEARTECT platform. This makes it around 10% lighter than the previous generation. Only a 5-door body style is available, even though the car resembles a 3-door because the rear door handles are moved to the C-pillar.
The interior offers seating for five. It comes with a climate control feature, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. The cabin also boasts a seven-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
The third generation Swift is powered by a 1.2-litre Dualjet inline-4 engine that produces 92 horsepower and 116 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
The third-generation Swift has a number of safety features, including:
- Dual front airbags
- Side airbags
- Curtain airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Brake assist
- Vehicle stability control
- Traction control system
Third Generation Suzuki Swift Facelift (2020)
The third generation was refreshed in 2020. The facelift made the car edges more round with the addition of a wider front grille. The Swift now has swept-back headlights with masked door handles on the rear that blend in with the C-pillar. The interior mostly remains the same, offering both function and design.
On the other hand, the engine options include the following:
- A 1.0-litre engine mated with a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. It produces up to 112 horsepower.
- A 1.2-litre engine generating up to 91 horsepower. It is also offered as a mild-hybrid engine and paired with a CVT transmission.
This concludes the Suzuki Swift history. The model is known for its agility, good fuel economy and reliability. Therefore, if you wish to avail it, go through these used Suzuki Swift for sale in the UAE. For other models by the brand, you can browse these used Suzuki cars to buy in the UAE.
Keep reading dubizzle’s autos blog for automotive insights, car histories and more.
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