It might not be a hot hatch by the modern definition, but that doesn’t mean the Suzuki Swift Sport isn’t any fun. Quite the opposite, actually…
It’s got the looks…
Between the other dull hues that coat most of CAR’s long-term fleet, the Sport’s Championship Yellow finish sure draws a lot of attention. In a parking lot, in the CAR driveway, on the highway, on a Sunday drive – everywhere. Even though the second-generation Swift Sport is two years old, the car (especially in this colour) still gets its fair share of stares and glances … too many for my liking, at times.
The model-specific kit makes it stand out that much more from the regular Swift and includes side skirts, a roof spoiler, deeper front apron and 16-inch alloys, and gives the appearance of plenty of guts. And the black grille, tinted windows and dual exhaust pipes add to the aggression.
…and decent spec too
But the Swift Sport is not as compromised as it looks, because inside it’s fitted with a multifunction steering wheel, one-touch driver’s side electric window and an audio system that delivers great sound for a light hatchback and which includes an auxiliary input socket, USB port and Bluetooth audio.
The dark cabin features lots of hard plastics, especially around the facia, but such is the build quality that the interior never feels cheap. I especially like the figure-hugging front seats that offer plenty of bolstering and red stitching found throughout the cabin.
Rev-happy but fuel efficient
With a self-imposed 5 000 r/min limit for the first 2 000 km of my “ownership,” the Swift Sport’s 1,6-litre motor had a chance to relax before I really opened up the taps. The relaxed motoring allowed me to experience just how efficient the Swift Sport can be when driven “normally” on a daily basis. Without even trying, I got the average fuel consumption down to little more than 7,0 litres/100 km – and that with my daily commute consisting of no less than 20 stops. So I’m really looking forward to seeing what I can average on the open road.
Just after the run-in phase of CT 06 BG GP’s time with us was complete, it was called upon to do battle against a new rival in the form of Chevrolet’s Sonic RS for the March issue. The two were very closely matched in terms of size, spec and even performance. Ultimately, the Swift Sport emerged the victor by way of its edgier package. The relatively humble 100 kW and 160 N.m of torque is easily exploitable by way of a sensitive throttle pedal, stiff suspension setup and quick steering.
The next few months should be a blast…
After 5 months
Mileage on arrival: 2 458 km
Mileage now: 8 156 km
Fuel consumption to date: 7,30 L/100km
We like: head-turning looks, punchy audio system, fuel consumption.
We don’t like: attracts a lot of attention
