2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid Review

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid offers a fresh take on a beloved city car, blending economical driving with updated technology and mild-hybrid assistance. With a compact design that fits perfectly in urban environments, this model retains its agility while adding new features to enhance safety and comfort. Though it doesn’t operate like a full hybrid, the Swift Hybrid provides a more fuel-efficient experience, making it a practical choice for those looking for an affordable, eco-friendly vehicle. The question remains: how does it stack up against its competition? Let’s dive in to find out.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Affordable Pricing: The Swift Hybrid 2024 is priced competitively, making it more affordable than many of its rivals in the city car segment.
2. Fuel Efficiency: With a fuel consumption rate around 4.0L/100km, it delivers excellent fuel economy, saving on running costs over time.
3. Fun Driving Experience: The manual transmission option offers a responsive and engaging driving experience, making city commutes more enjoyable.
4. Improved Safety Features: Equipped with modern safety technologies like lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and autonomous emergency braking.
5. Wireless Apple CarPlay: The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay makes staying connected easy and convenient on the go.

Cons

1. Limited Hybrid Functionality: The mild-hybrid system doesn’t drive the wheels on electric power alone and offers minimal performance enhancement, differing from full hybrids.
2. Cramped Interior Space: Rear seats can feel tight, especially for taller passengers, and the overall interior is better suited for shorter trips.
3. Basic Infotainment: While improved, the touchscreen still feels basic and can be sluggish, with fewer advanced features compared to some competitors.
4. Lack of USB-C Ports: The absence of USB-C ports might be a drawback for users with newer devices.
5. Underwhelming Performance: The 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine may feel underpowered, especially during highway driving or when fully loaded.

Driving Experience and Performance

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid offers a lively driving experience, particularly when paired with the manual transmission. Shifting gears adds an element of engagement, making city driving more enjoyable. However, the manual shifts can feel a bit rubbery, and the clutch lacks the precision found in some rivals. For those who prefer an automatic, the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is also available, though it can be slow to respond when a burst of power is needed—especially during highway merges or steep inclines.

Under the bonnet, the Swift Hybrid is powered by a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with a 12-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine generates:

• 61kW of power at 5,700 rpm
• 112Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm

These figures are modest, making the Swift Hybrid more of a city-friendly car than a high-performance vehicle. The mild-hybrid system adds a small electric boost, helping with fuel efficiency rather than delivering a noticeable surge in power. While the system cannot drive the wheels on electric power alone, it assists the engine during acceleration and enables auto stop-start technology.

Performance-wise, the Swift Hybrid feels:

• Peppy at lower speeds, making it easy to navigate through urban traffic
• Sluggish at higher speeds, particularly when overtaking on highways or climbing hills
• Responsive in city conditions, where the 1.2-litre engine performs adequately for stop-and-go traffic

Although it won’t win any races, the Swift Hybrid’s lightweight construction—coming in under a tonne for the automatic model—contributes to its nimble handling and makes the most of the power it has. While the engine might struggle when fully loaded or on steep inclines, it provides a balanced driving experience for those who prioritise fuel economy and city manoeuvrability over outright performance.

Interior Comfort and Space

The interior of the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid is designed with a focus on functionality and simplicity, offering a comfortable environment for short trips and daily commutes. The cabin layout is straightforward, with easy-to-reach controls and a driver-focused design. However, the Swift’s compact dimensions do limit interior space, especially when it comes to accommodating more than a couple of passengers.

Front seats are relatively supportive and offer manual adjustments, including height adjustment for the driver. The fabric upholstery is soft to the touch, adding a bit of comfort to the overall experience. The driving position is easy to customise thanks to the tilt and reach adjustment on the steering wheel, allowing drivers of various sizes to find a suitable setup. Key front-seat amenities include:

• A single USB-A port and a 12-volt socket for charging devices
• Heated cloth seats in the Plus and GLX trims
• A lack of a front-centre armrest, which some may find inconvenient on longer drives

Rear-seat space, on the other hand, is more restrictive. For taller passengers, the back seat can feel cramped, with limited legroom and headroom, especially when sitting behind a tall driver. Notable aspects of the rear seats include:

• Adequate toe room under the front seats
• Absence of rear amenities like cooling vents, USB ports, and a fold-down centre armrest
• Rear doors with bottle holders, but no additional storage compartments

Boot space in the Swift Hybrid is a practical 265 litres with the seats up, which is decent for everyday items like groceries or a small pram. However, this space becomes a challenge when carrying bulky items, requiring the rear seats to be folded down to maximise storage. Boot features include:

• 60:40 split-folding rear seat bench
• A tyre repair kit in place of a spare wheel
• Illumination and a bag hook in the load area for added convenience

Overall, while the Swift Hybrid’s interior is well-suited for shorter journeys and city driving, it may feel cramped for longer trips, especially with five occupants on board. The interior comfort leans more towards functionality rather than luxury, with materials and design choices reflecting its focus on practicality and cost-effectiveness.

Technology and Connectivity Features

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid comes equipped with a range of technology and connectivity features that cater to modern driving needs, although they lean more towards practicality than cutting-edge innovation. At the heart of the cabin is a new 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, an upgrade from the previous model’s 7.0-inch display. This system includes:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay for easy smartphone integration without the need for cables
• Wired Android Auto for Android users, offering familiar access to apps and media
• Satellite navigation, Bluetooth, and AM/FM/DAB digital radio for versatile entertainment and navigation options

While the screen is larger and has a more contemporary interface, its performance is somewhat basic. Users may experience:

• Occasional sluggishness when navigating through menus or switching between functions
• Limited advanced features, as the system focuses on core functionalities like phone mirroring and basic navigation

The instrument cluster retains a classic design with analogue dials flanking a small digital display. This screen provides essential information such as speed, fuel consumption, and mild-hybrid system status. However, it falls short when compared to the fully digital clusters offered by some competitors. Some notable limitations include:

• No way to simultaneously display fuel consumption and the digital speedometer
• Limited customisation options for the display, restricting the level of information available at a glance

Despite these limitations, the Swift Hybrid includes several convenience features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. Key highlights include:

• Wireless phone charging in the GLX trim, allowing compatible devices to charge without the need for cables
• Keyless entry and start for added convenience when getting in and out of the vehicle
• Steering wheel controls for audio and infotainment functions, allowing drivers to adjust settings without taking their hands off the wheel

One area where the Swift Hybrid falls short is in its connectivity ports. The setup offers:

• A single USB-A port, which may not suffice for charging multiple devices simultaneously
• Absence of USB-C ports, which have become the standard for faster charging and data transfer in newer devices

Overall, the technology and connectivity offerings in the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid strike a balance between essential features and cost-effectiveness. While it may not boast the most advanced tech suite in its class, the inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay, satellite navigation, and key safety features make it a practical choice for everyday driving. However, tech enthusiasts may find the infotainment system and connectivity options somewhat basic compared to what some rivals offer.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid takes a notable step forward in safety and driver assistance, incorporating a suite of features aimed at enhancing driver confidence and passenger protection. While it has yet to be crash-tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, the Swift Hybrid is equipped with several modern safety technologies that align it more closely with newer vehicles in the city-car segment.

Key safety features include:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): This system is more advanced in the Swift Hybrid, capable of detecting pedestrians, cyclists, and oncoming motorcycles. It can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision, particularly useful in busy urban settings.
• Lane Departure Warning and Lane-Keep Assist: These systems help prevent unintentional lane changes by providing alerts and corrective steering inputs, reducing the risk of accidents caused by drifting out of the lane.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Available in both manual and automatic variants, this feature maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, making long-distance driving more comfortable. However, in automatic models, it lacks the ability to resume driving automatically after stopping, which is a limitation compared to more advanced systems.
• Traffic Sign Recognition: This system uses cameras to detect road signs, providing visual and audible alerts if the driver exceeds the speed limit, enhancing awareness in various driving conditions.

The Swift Hybrid also includes basic safety features such as:

• Six airbags: Dual frontal, front-side, and side curtain airbags are standard, providing crucial protection in the event of a collision. However, the lack of a centre airbag between the front seats is a noteworthy omission, especially for achieving higher safety ratings.
• Rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera: These aid in parking and low-speed manoeuvring, helping to avoid obstacles that might be out of the driver’s line of sight.

Despite the improvements, the Swift Hybrid has some limitations in its safety suite:

• No front parking sensors: Unlike some rivals, the Swift Hybrid does not offer front parking sensors, which can be helpful in tight parking spots.
• Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: These features are available only in the Plus and GLX trims and are designed to alert the driver to vehicles approaching from the side or rear. However, they do not have the ability to automatically brake for obstacles, providing only alerts without intervention.
• Limited rear-seat safety amenities: Rear-seat passengers do not have access to dedicated safety amenities like seatbelt reminders or additional airbags beyond the standard side curtains.

Overall, the safety and driver assistance features in the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid reflect a significant effort to keep pace with the expectations of modern city cars. While some features like the adaptive cruise control and advanced AEB add valuable peace of mind, the absence of certain amenities such as front parking sensors and a centre airbag shows there is still room for improvement. Nevertheless, for its price point and segment, the Swift Hybrid offers a well-rounded package of safety technologies designed to meet the needs of everyday drivers.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid stands out in its segment for its impressive fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs. Designed primarily as a city car, it utilises a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine paired with a 12-volt mild-hybrid system, striking a balance between performance and economy.

Fuel efficiency figures for the Swift Hybrid are particularly impressive:

• Official fuel consumption: Suzuki claims a fuel consumption rate of 4.0 litres per 100 kilometres for the CVT automatic variant and an even lower 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres for the manual version.
• Real-world fuel economy: During typical urban and suburban driving conditions, drivers can expect to achieve figures close to the claimed rates. On a short test loop with a mix of 60 km/h to 80 km/h roads, the Swift Hybrid managed a consumption rate of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres—an excellent result for a petrol-powered vehicle in this class.

The mild-hybrid system contributes to this efficiency by incorporating:

• Auto Stop-Start Technology: This feature shuts off the engine at traffic lights or during brief stops to conserve fuel. However, while the system adds to the vehicle’s efficiency, its impact on overall fuel savings is relatively modest. Over an hour-long drive covering 53 kilometres, the stop-start system saved approximately 42 millilitres of petrol, translating to a fuel saving of just 1.7 percent.
• Reduced emissions: The mild-hybrid system also helps lower emissions, making the Swift Hybrid a more environmentally conscious choice for urban drivers.

Running costs for the Swift Hybrid are also competitive:

• Warranty and servicing: Suzuki offers a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty on the Swift Hybrid, adding peace of mind for owners. The vehicle requires servicing every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres, with maintenance costs over five years estimated at $1,955. This is quite reasonable compared to rivals, with the Toyota Yaris Hybrid costing $1,225 for the same period and the Mazda 2 requiring $2,116.
• Insurance costs: While the Swift Hybrid is too new to have detailed insurance quotes readily available, its classification as a city car with a mild-hybrid system generally places it in a lower insurance bracket, reducing long-term ownership costs.
• Fuel costs: Given its exceptional fuel economy, the Swift Hybrid offers savings at the pump. Even with the requirement for 95-octane premium unleaded petrol, the vehicle’s low consumption rates help keep fuel expenses in check. Assuming an annual mileage of 15,000 kilometres and a fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres, owners can expect to save significantly on fuel compared to less efficient models.

In summary, the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid’s fuel efficiency and running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious drivers. While it may not deliver the extensive electric-only driving range of full hybrids, its economical nature is ideal for city dwellers seeking a cost-effective and environmentally friendlier driving solution.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid is available in three distinct trim levels, each catering to different needs and preferences while maintaining a focus on affordability and efficiency. The lineup includes the base Hybrid, the mid-grade Hybrid Plus, and the flagship Hybrid GLX. All variants are equipped with Suzuki’s 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine paired with a 12-volt mild-hybrid system, though transmission options and feature sets vary across the range.

1. Hybrid (Base Model)

• Price: Starts at $24,490 drive-away for the manual transmission and slightly higher for the CVT automatic.
• Transmission: Offers a choice between a five-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
• Key Features:
  • 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto
  • LED headlights
  • Rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera
• Safety Features: Equipped with standard safety tech like autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning.

2. Hybrid Plus (Mid-Grade Model)

• Price: Priced at around $29,135 drive-away.
• Transmission: Available exclusively with the CVT automatic transmission.
• Key Upgrades Over the Base Model:
  • Climate-control air conditioning
  • Heated cloth front seats
  • Lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control
  • Heated door mirrors
• Additional Features: Enhancements in interior comfort and convenience, making it a balanced choice for those who want more features without the top-tier price tag.

3. Hybrid GLX (Flagship Model)

• Price: Starts from $29,490 drive-away, with an additional charge of $595 for metallic paint, bringing the total to $30,085 drive-away.
• Transmission: Comes exclusively with the CVT automatic transmission.
• Key Features:
  • 16-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Wireless phone charging
  • Paddle shifters for a sportier driving experience
  • Heating ducts for rear passengers
  • Folding side mirrors
• Technology and Safety: The GLX includes all the bells and whistles of the Swift Hybrid range, offering a comprehensive safety package that includes adaptive cruise control, enhanced lane-assist systems, and additional convenience features.

Pricing Overview and Competitors

The pricing for the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid positions it competitively within the city car market. It is generally more affordable than many of its direct rivals:

• MG 3 Hybrid Excite: Priced around $27,990 plus on-road costs or approximately $30,000 drive-away.
• Mazda 2 G15 Pure SP: Falls in the $29,000 to $29,600 drive-away range.
• Toyota Yaris Ascent Sport Hybrid: Typically ranges from $31,400 to $32,600 drive-away.
• Volkswagen Polo Life: Currently listed at $31,990 drive-away nationwide.

Overall, the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid offers a variety of trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets. The base model provides essential features and safety technologies at an accessible price point, while the mid-grade and flagship variants offer additional comfort, technology, and convenience for those willing to invest a bit more.

Final Verdict

The 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid presents itself as a well-rounded city car that blends affordability, fuel efficiency, and a fun driving experience. With its mild-hybrid system, the Swift offers commendable fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for urban commuters who prioritize cost-effective and eco-friendly driving. The manual transmission option adds a layer of engagement, while the CVT provides a more relaxed driving experience, although both come with their quirks in terms of responsiveness.

In terms of practicality, the Swift Hybrid shines in city environments. Its compact dimensions make it easy to manoeuvre through tight streets and crowded parking lots. However, the interior space is somewhat limited, particularly in the rear seats, making it less ideal for those who frequently travel with multiple passengers or need ample cargo space. The cabin is well-designed for short trips, with straightforward controls and sufficient comfort for daily commutes, though it lacks some of the refinements found in higher-end competitors.

Technology and connectivity features in the Swift Hybrid are solid, with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto offering easy smartphone integration. However, the infotainment system, while improved, still feels basic compared to rivals in the same price bracket. Safety features are a strong point, with advanced driver assistance systems like autonomous emergency braking and lane-keep assist providing an extra layer of security. Still, the absence of certain features like front parking sensors and a centre airbag shows room for improvement.

Where the Swift Hybrid truly excels is in its running costs. With an official fuel consumption rate of around 4.0L/100km and reasonable maintenance expenses, it offers significant savings in the long run. The mild-hybrid system, while not delivering the full capabilities of a traditional hybrid, contributes to lower emissions and better fuel economy, enhancing its appeal to environmentally conscious drivers.

In conclusion, the 2024 Suzuki Swift Hybrid is a compelling option for those seeking an economical and nimble city car. It combines fuel efficiency, essential technology, and safety features in a package that’s both practical and enjoyable to drive. However, if you’re looking for more interior space, advanced tech features, or a true hybrid driving experience, exploring other options in the segment might be worthwhile. For city dwellers and budget-conscious drivers who value simplicity, the Swift Hybrid ticks many of the right boxes.

Want more? Click here for 2024 BMW 430i Coupé – TDP Review – Tech Drive Play