For the first time, Suzuki's Swift Sport features a turbocharged motor.
Gone is the rev-happy 1.6-litre naturally aspirated mill from the previous generation. It's now been replaced by a turbocharged 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine also used in the Suzuki Vitara. In this application it produces 103kw and 230nm. While power only increases by 3kw, the 70nm bump is the big 'torquing' point here.
Suzuki has also trimmed some weight off the SSS, shedding 80kgs from the outgoing model, with kerb weight now standing at a sub one-tonne weight of 970kg. While the Suzuki Swift Sport has lost weight, the car has grown substantially, with the wheelbase increased by 20mm, and the width by 40mm, all aiding stability and rigidity.
In terms of aesthetics, there are more defined side skirts and at the rear end a pronounced black diffuser and two large exhausts exiting. New diamond-cut designed silver and black aluminium alloy wheels are also unique to the Sport, while interior changes include upgraded front sports seats, red detail trimming and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The new Swift Sport aims to once again be the best value hot hatch on the local market, building on the strengths of its predecessor while incorporating the latest technology as well as an enhanced specification.
While Suzuki SA plans to introduce the new Swift range before the middle of 2018, they have yet to confirm when the third-generation Swift Sport will land on our shores.
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FAQ
Q: What does the Suzuki Swift Sport cost in South Africa?
The third-generation Swift Sport hadn't arrived in SA at the time of this review, so pricing wasn't confirmed, but expect it to slot in around R350,000 to R380,000 based on Suzuki's value positioning and the previous generation's pricing strategy.
Q: Is the turbocharged Swift Sport better than the old naturally aspirated version?
Yes, the new 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine delivers 230Nm of torque compared to the old engine's 160Nm, plus the car is 80kg lighter at just 970kg, making it significantly more punchy and responsive than its predecessor.
Q: How powerful is the new Swift Sport engine?
The turbocharged 1.4-litre Boosterjet produces 103kW and 230Nm, which is only 3kW more than before but a whopping 70Nm torque increase that transforms the driving experience completely.
Q: What are the main differences between the Swift Sport and regular Swift?
The Sport gets unique diamond-cut alloy wheels, more aggressive side skirts, a black rear diffuser with twin exhausts, upgraded sports seats with red trim, and a flat-bottomed steering wheel that screams performance.
Q: Is the Swift Sport worth buying over other hot hatches?
Absolutely, Suzuki's track record shows the Swift Sport consistently offers the best bang for buck in the hot hatch segment, combining proper performance with everyday usability at a price that won't break the bank.
Should You Buy It?
The best entry-level hot hatch under R400,000 in SA is undoubtedly the Swift Sport, and this third-generation model looks set to continue that tradition. With 230Nm of torque in a sub-tonne package, you're getting serious performance thrills without the premium price tag. The turbocharged engine delivers proper punch while maintaining Suzuki's legendary reliability, and at an expected price around R350,000 to R380,000, it'll likely undercut rivals by a significant margin. If you want maximum driving fun for minimum cash and can wait for local availability, this is a definite yes.
