New 2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift Review: Hatches Back In The Game?

Almost all of the recent new car launches have been SUVs but the arrival of the Swift is indeed a big news since this brand name has been around since 2005 while creating a new genre for fun to drive hatchbacks. Arguably, the biggest competition for the Swift is a micro SUv today but here is a brand name which still sells in huge numbers and it is an important car for Maruti Suzuki too. Hence, for the new generation model, Maruti Suzuki has kept some big changes while maintaining the familiar design albeit with a tweaked formula. The new Swift then has a lot riding on its shoulders and should you consider one over a small SUV? Our review answers all.

How does it look?

In its new generation form, the new Swift is arguably more sporty and maintains its classic appeal. Arguably, this can be termed as a better looking Swift than the last two generations models with a more curved/ premium looking design. It is marginally longer while the bonnet line moving across to the side is an attractive design touch. The headlamps are a Swift signature but are slightly bigger being LED projector headlamps and boomerang LED DRLs plus the grille is more clean looking plus new LED fog lamps. The side meanwhile has a blackened C-pillar which looks neat while the door handle is now moved at its rightful position below. The rear gets new tail-lamps with C-shaped LEDs while the styling here is similar to the old one. There are two new colours including this lovely blue shade plus new alloys along with dual tone options. Paint finish and build quality has improved too.

What about the interiors?

The interiors while being familiar in some places are new as well with the biggest change being the all new centre console. There is a bigger 9-inch touchscreen, new air vents and new toggle switches which replace the older round knobs. The instrument cluster is new as well and we like the clean look too while the flat bottom steering wheel is retained. Silver elements and the overall fit/finish has been improved and looks more premium now while some may miss the older climate control knobs. Space remains the same as before which means the the rear seat is still a squeeze for three passengers while it feels a bit small at the back but we would say legroom is very good with enough thigh support due to the seats plus there are rear ac vents this time too although there is no armrest or a middle headrest.

Is it more feature loaded?

The new Swift does better here than the earlier gen with a larger touchscreen with the latest infotainment system plus features like connected car tech, a larger rear view camera display, Arkamys sound system, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto plus more. That said, a 360 degree camera is missing which is available on the Baleno along with the heads-up display while the rear camera display is slightly pixelated too. What is impressive is that standard safety equipment includes 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Program+, Hill Hold Assist, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, 3-point seat belts for all seats with reminders.

Is the new Swift fun to drive?

The original Swift was a benchmark with its handling plus peppy engine but times have changed with downsizing being the new mantra. The new Swift debuts the new Z series three cylinder engine which is down on power when compared to the earlier Swift but still makes 82ps and 111Nm. What the spec sheet will not tell you is that the new engine is smooth and easier to drive in the city. For a three cylinder, it is very smooth and gets more low-end torque for easy city driving. The light 5-speed manual is also the best that we have seen with a quick shift plus light clutch. Hence, it is easier to drive in the city now and more relaxing. Yes, when pushed hard, the three cylinder does get noisy but it is reasonably fun if not as rev friendly as the old Swift engine. That said, it is more grown-up now and owners will like the smooth, easy to drive nature. Handling remains quick but the ride is now better with less firmness plus steering has improved too over the earlier model.

Is the new Swift as fuel efficient as before?

More than before and in fact it is one of the most efficient hatchbacks while leaving others here. One of the big advantages of this engine is that even without a hybrid system, it will deliver near 25 kmpl which is brilliant and you will get near 20 kmpl figures in the city.

Is the new Swift better value?

While prices have increased over the last gen, the new Swift is a more rounded product this time with better safety, more efficiency and a new petrol engine which is tuned for its natural habitat. Yes, some of the fun factor is missing and also some features but as a product, it is a more appealing family hatchback that makes a lot of sense.