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Swift Hatchback

Suzuki Swift Hatchback 1.2 SZ3 3dr Review

For This is the version we’d recommend, because it keeps the Swift affordable and still provides standard kit including alloys and air-con. The engine gives good running costs.

Against The petrol engine is a little noisy and a little gutless, and it costs a bit more than the entry-level car.

What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

Our recommended Swift. It costs more than the SZ2, but we think it’s worth paying the extra cash for alloys and air-con.

What Car? readers say

4

Key facts

0–60mph: 12.3 secs
Top speed: 103 mph
Average mpg: 56.5
Tank range: 520 miles

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Features

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Size

View the whole Suzuki Swift Hatchback range

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The full Suzuki Swift review

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
1.2 petrol feels weedy
Ride & Handling
3 out of 5 stars
Feels very stable in bends
Refinement
2 out of 5 stars
Engine noise never fades away
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
Affordable to buy; low running costs
Quality & Reliability
3 out of 5 stars
Solid, but not exactly special
Safety & Security
5 out of 5 stars
Loads of safety kit as standard
Behind The Wheel
4 out of 5 stars
Good visibility and clear dash
Space & Practicality
2 out of 5 stars
Adequate for passengers; boot is small
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Very impressive

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Suzuki Swift buyers have the choice of three engines. The 93bhp 1.2-litre petrol is a little on the sluggish side, but it gives good fuel economy and emissions. The 78bhp 1.3 diesel, meanwhile, has a good slice of low-end pull, so it feels a lot perkier than the petrol. Trouble is, it comes only in SZ3 trim and is quite a bit dearer than the equivalent petrol-engined model. The 1.6 Sport has 134bhp, so it's more of a junior hot hatch, but it needs revs to do its best work.

The most basic SZ2 cars come with powered front windows, remote central locking, electric door mirrors, and a CD player with USB connection and steering wheel controls. That’s pretty good for the money, so this is the trim we’d recommend. SZ3 models add air-con and alloys, while the SZ4 and Sport models have climate control, Bluetooth, keyless entry, rear privacy glass and cruise control.