The new Maruti Suzuki Swift is one of the most hotly anticipated cars for 2024, and here it is before the official launch, spotted at a dealership yard. As expected, it takes the same cues from the Japanese and European models, which was expected given that this is Suzuki’s most popular global car.
The design is evolutionary with the same silhouette as the outgoing model but with new headlamps, grille, wheels, and taillamps. One of the major changes is of course the fact that the rear door handles have moved from the pillars to a place on the doors. Inside, there’s a black-over-silver colour scheme with features including a new nine-inch infotainment system, steering-mounted audio controls, and a completely new interface for the climate control system.
Now, as a general trend, manufacturers showcase their top-spec cars in their media and press materials but here in our pictures is the mid-spec VXi variant. It gets steel wheels but misses out on fog lamps. Inside, it’s expected to come with a smaller touchscreen as a part of the package but doesn’t get a reverse camera.
We had expected the new Swift to continue with the K12C petrol engine but our sources have indicated that it will get a new mild-hybrid 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 80bhp/100Nm. It will be offered with a five-speed MT or a five-speed AMT.
This is an important car for Maruti for two major reasons. One is that it is successful for the automaker and is one of their top three highest-selling models. The other is that it is expected to be the catalyst that will help Maruti revive the sales of its small cars which have been stagnant for the last two FYs.