New Suzuki Swift gains design updates and four-wheel drive

The fourth-generation Suzuki Swift has been officially revealed, and the new supermini will go on sale with a host of design changes, four-wheel drive and engine alterations. 

Due to arrive in the UK in spring 2024, the new Swift offers a new front grille, L-shaped front lights and updated front wings. It also gains new lights at the rear, plus a new rear bumper. 

Suzuki said the new Swift will be offered with a 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine. Power specifications haven’t been revealed just yet, but the previous car offered 82bhp. 

The brand’s Allgrip Auto four-wheel drive system will also be available, although there’s no word on the return of the Suzuki Swift Sport, which offered 127bhp from a mild-hybrid 1.4-litre engine in its previous outing. 

Inside, the new Swift features cost-effective analogue instruments and a small digital screen in the driver display. The climate control panel no longer features chunky rotary dials and there are markedly fewer physical controls. 

As standard, the new Swift comes with a new 9.0in touchscreen infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a suite of safety features that includes braking support, driver monitoring and lane-keeping assistance. 

Full specification details for the UK market are due to be revealed early next year.

The new Swift previously made its public debut at the Tokyo motor show earlier this year, wearing concept badging but was clearly all but ready to go on sale. 

It “has been developed by always keeping the concept of ‘drive and feel’”, Suzuki said, hinting at a focus on providing engaging dynamics and charismatic performance.

The re-engineered hatchback is also said to have made the shift “from tangible consumption to experiential consumption”, which suggests an enhanced emphasis on sustainability throughout its construction.

Suzuki said it embodies the value of having fun with your car in daily life. 

Other changes spotted include the rear door handles, which have moved from the C-pillar to a more traditional position below the window. 

Given the budget-friendliness of the Swift, it’s unlikely that the new car will receive a significant technological overhaul.

It has been confirmed to feature a “high-efficiency engine” that “strikes a balance between driving performance and fuel efficiency”.

The car pictured features the current car’s five-speed manual gearbox, but an automatic option is likely to return.

Prices are tipped to start at north of £17,000, given that the current Swift costs just shy of that amount (having launched in 2017 at £11,000).

Official details will be given closer to market launch, which is expected in early 2024.