Maruti Suzuki Swift Review
The Swift is Maruti Suzuki's premium hatchback, which competes with the Hyundai Elite i20 and Volkswagen Polo in terms of engine and performance.
There are several changes made to this vehicle, especially to its features and technical specifications. It is available in several trim levels, among which, Maruti Suzuki Swift VDi is their mid-range diesel trim.
EXTERIOR
The front fascia of the car includes a new and sporty front bumper with bigger air dam, and fog lamps, which are accompanied by silver strips. The dynamic radiator grille has also been updated with black honeycomb mesh and is embedded with a chrome plated company's symbol. Surrounding this, is the vertical headlight cluster which is equipped with powerful headlamps and turn indicators.
For the side profile, the new stylish wheel covers add to its elegance, the door handles and ORVMs are in body color and The ORVMs are now equipped with turn indicators, which provide additional safety.
The rear profile sports a radiant tail light cluster, which has brake lights and turn indicators. It has a 'V' shaped tailgate that is accompanied by a concave windscreen along with a high mounted third brake light. Its body colored bumper also has an additional brake light, which further enhances its safety quotient.
This hatchback has a ground clearance of 170mm and a long wheelbase of 2430mm.
INTERIOR
The interiors of this Maruti Swift VDI trim now come with a refined black color scheme, which is complimented by a lot of silver accents. It also has sporty wraparound door trims, which further gives a plush appeal to the cabin. The instrument panel has several utility functions like driver seat belt reminder, instantaneous and average fuel consumption info, door closure warning lamp, and tachometer and driver seat belt reminder notification.
This hatchback is also bestowed upon with modified seats, which are now covered with new fabric upholstery. Furthermore, its rear seat back gets 60:40 split folding facility that adds in making a larger space for luggage. This trim is also bestowed with several utility features like front sun visors, three folding assist grips, and accessory power socket and day/night internal rear view mirror.
ENGINE & PERFORMANCE
This mid-range trim is powered by a 1.3L DDiS diesel engine that has a modified Engine Control Unit (ECU) with a 5 Speed Manual Transmission. It comprises of 4 cylinders and 16 valves which displaces 1248cc. The aerodynamics are decent and a ground clearance of 170mm along with Precision Engine Parts (PEP) makes it real fun to drive. But, even after the close competition with Volkswagen Polo which has a better engine specs, the Swift overtakes the competition with ease.
It also gets a fixed geometry turbocharger and an intercooler, which is capable of producing a maximum power of 74bhp at 4000rpm and a peak torque output of 190Nm at 2000rpm.
The company claims that the hatchback can now produce a mileage of 25.2kmpl, which is quite impressive.
BRAKING, HANDLING, SAFETY & COMFORT
The front wheels are equipped with a pair of ventilated discs, while the rear ones have drum brakes. It is also fitted with anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution system (EBD) including brake assist, and the front axle is equipped with a McPherson Strut, whereas the rear gets a Torsion Beam mechanism. It also has a Rack and Pinion based electric power assisted steering precise handling response.
It also features crucial protective features, which safeguards the vehicle and its passengers. The car maker has incorporated an advanced iCATS security system, which prevents any unauthorized access into the vehicle.
It also has a list of features like high mount third brake light, side door impact beams, security alarm system, three point seat belts and dual horn, ABS with EBD, brake assist system, rear door child locks and head restraints.
This trim is now equipped with a music system featuring a CD player and Radio along with speed based automatic volume control. Furthermore, it has 4 speakers, 2-tweeters and connectivity ports for AUX-In and USB devices as well.
This mid-level premium hatchback is equipped with numerous comfort features. These include an electric power steering with tilt adjustment, all four power windows, retractable cup holders, an accessory power socket, 60:40 folding rear seat back, keyless entry, front seat back pocket, central door locking, a manually operated air conditioning unit, remote back door opening, lane change indicator, multi-information display and a roof antenna.
CONCLUSION
The best in segment fuel efficiency, more features and trendy front looks make it the undisputed leader with its Value Package as an appeal. The numerous safety and comfort features put the Swift on the top of the page, i.e., before the Elite i20 and the Polo.
The car targets the price sensitive customers who are looking for a luxurious commuting solution. Even the prices of the Swift (both top-end and base models) are placed lower than its competitors.
