Suzuki Swift: A step up in the world

• Published date: 06 April 2024
• Author: UDI ETZION
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The latest generation of the Swift is the fourth since its introduction in 2004 and its launch in 2005. "How 2005, if my first car was a 1988 Swift?" someone might ask. It turns out that the Swift versions sold in the two decades before were a "badge name" for existing Suzuki models. Clever, right

After half a day of flights, we meet the Swift face-to-face for the first time at the entrance to the hotel in Bordeaux, where the press launch event and our test drive will start. Bloggers and vloggers with us are already releasing impressions across social media platforms. After such a long journey, first, we'll rest for a night and then hit the road.

Morning, coffee, breakfast, a press briefing with the Suzuki team, and we're ready to go. We head to the fifth floor of the large hotel parking lot. Dozens of Swifts in bold colors await us. The Swifts in the new launch colors - Metallic Pearl Blue and Metallic Cool Yellow - were the first ones grabbed for driving. The warm red and orange tones complement the Swift well. A representative from Suzuki Netherlands, who organized the event, directs me to a Swift in Pearl White with a Mineral Grey Metallic roof. A solid yet elegant combination.

Design: Even before the official photos were released, it was clear that this wasn't an extreme revolution but rather a modern evolution. It's not hard to see that it's a new Suzuki Swift. The wide grille and the stretched headlights slightly resemble the previous generation. Those with keen eyes might notice a resemblance to the Ford Fiesta or even the Focus. The profile with the sunroof covering the front like eyebrows and the hips completing the familiar Swift silhouette from previous editions. Even from behind, it's unmistakable, despite Suzuki's statements about a new trapezoidal shape in the rear view. The large taillights are noticeable, and their light signature is different from the outgoing model.

So what can we expect in Israel? The Swift will be marketed in Israel at one trim level (GLX), and there will be an option to choose between a manual transmission with 5 speeds and a continuous automatic CVT gearbox. Only cars with manual transmissions were present at the launch event. On the one hand, this probably won't be the best-selling version (which is a shame), but on the other hand: hey, at least we'll enjoy the launch driving more. The price for the Israeli consumer is still uncertain, as it is still under negotiation between the importer and the manufacturer. For...