Maruti Swift : The Hatchback that Changed the Way India Drives The Maruti Swift itself became an iconic offering ever since it made its first appearance took over the Indian roads with constant reinvention, all of which have retained its original appeal.
This l ittle hatchback has almost unprecedented status in the automotive world – where it has become a name known in any household,
one which didn’t lose meaning no matter how many years pass since dad had one and how many decades he’s been replaced by the next generation of kids.
The Swift is one of India’s all time favourites and with this generation, it is here to prove it again.
Design Evolution
The Swift has always been considered as sporty compact hatch. Presently, the model has a honeycomb mesh grille, sharper headlamps and floating roof design to appear distinct in visuals.
Whilst retaining its familiar outline, the swift has grown up over the generations adding a modern style but without losing the classic swift playfulness.
Indeed, its nicely sorted body, short overhangs and hunkered-down profile still have an uplifting freshness that appeals to all ages.
Powertrain Refinement
Beneath the bonnet, the Swift comes with a second generation K-series engine which delivers higher performance while keeping fuel economy in check.
The 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine churns out around 90 PS and 113 Nm of torque – numbers that might look underwhelming on paper,
but translate to rather frisky performance on the road, thanks to the hatchback’s lightweight build.
The powertrain is mated to either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) providing a driver-oriented choice.
Fuel Efficiency Champion
Considering its legacy of out of the world fuel economy, the Swift does around 22-23 kmpl under normal test conditions.
This impressive parsimoniousness comes, however, at no detriment to dynamics – the Swift’s standing in the industry as a frugal yet fun cake-eater retains undimmed on the new model.
The start-stop feature also improves fuel economy in urban stop-and-go driving conditions and is a useful feature for city drivers.
Interior Comfort and Features
Up front, the Swift has a cockpit geared towards the driver, with simple controls and serviceable use of space.
INTERIOR Black theme along with silver highlight on the interior is the monotone colour which gives sports feel and the flat-bottom steering imparts the perfect sporty feel.
Tech-wise, there’s an up-to-date 7-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system that can connect to a smartphone, but it’s frill-free and not overly complicated.
Furthermore, there’s automatic climate control, keyless entry and push-button start, and a halfway decent sound system.
Driving Dynamics
They are fabulously maintenance free and, in my opinion, every bit as good as any Mercedes interior…So, the Swift is brilliant on the inside and well styled on the outside. Where the Swift really excels however, is in what it’s like to drive.
The accurate steering, well-damped suspension and willing engine response make for a driving experience that’s involving but not enervating.
It feels nimble in traffic, confident on the highway, and remarkably stable in the corners.
It is this, among other tire handling traits that have been a hallmark of Swift, generation after generation of Swift.
Safety Provisions
The current Swift gets dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors as standard.
Upper variants get more safety kit, which includes a reverse camera and more airbags but some rivals have better equipped, similarly priced safety packages.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Zippy performance from the eager engine-led!
Excellent fuel efficiency
Engaging driving dynamics and accurate handling
High resale value and strong brand image
Low operating cost behind enormous service network
Modern and youthful styling
OK interior space utilization considering its small size
Well-priced across variants
Cons:
Sparse storage hampered by lack of boot space
Taller passengers would appreciate better rear seat comfort
Insulation from road noise could be better
The base models are a little more spartan on features
AMT headnod at low speeds is very characteristic of its gear transmission.
Vienna: Quality of build etc a bit lighter than european competition.
Perceived quality impacted by hard plastics in the interior
Not quite as many available safety features as some rivals
Maruti Swift: Verdict
It remains the same, all-round hatchback that respects space, practicality and a bit of driving fun.
So the fact that it doesn’t compromise too much in any area means it suits a variety of needs and continues to enjoy popularity.
For city slickers who want a small car that won’t let them down and will put a smile on their dial and has a good following in the modified car scene,
you can’t really go past the Swift and no wonder it has become one of the most iconic cars in India today!