2005 Suzuki Swift: another cool small car that Americans won't get to drive
Unless they are on vacation in Europe or Japan, I mean. This little guy is another Paris Motor Show debut-er, developed over a couple of years from the Concept S prototype. If you want to know why the U.S. won't see the Swift, the engine numbers should explain it— the two gasoline offerings will be a 1.3 liter making 91-hp and a 1.5 liter generating 102-hp. It's not that these kinds of numbers couldn't work on U.S. asphalt, it's simply that our power-hungry culture dictates that a vehicle must have at least 3.0 liters of displacement and 250-300 horsepower to be perceived as "worth it," despite the fact that 40-60 percent of that kind of power probably goes unused on our crowded roads anyway. Recall: it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slowly.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Charles S 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
The Concept S was a cool idea; good MINI Cooper like proportions, and snappy interior. Too bad the introduction of the Swift is far from what the Concept S had been. While the production car doesn't have to be sporty like the concept version, the boring interior is such a disappointment.
Oh, well, cars like that, in general, won't do well in the US anyways, even if it can get a bigger engine. MINIs and Scions are different, because they fit a niche. The Concept S could have a chance, but this watered down Swift is probably just as well that it didn't come to the US.
Reply
S2gt 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
Suzuki will actually be coming out with a performance version of this car as hinted at by several statements by head of suzuki automobile devision. Just as they did in the late 80's / early 90's Swift... expect a GT version to hit american shores. Check out http://www.ssgti.net/ if you want to see what the last performance Swift GT was about. There is a thriving culture of Swift GT owners worldwide that race these cars.
Reply
Martin Buck 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
I just checked out all the Swifts at our local dealer in New Zealand. They've sold twenty of them in the past week, and can barely keep up with demand.
In person, the Swift is chunky, purposeful, and high quality. Pull-open door handles and leather steering wheel with stereo controls tells you the level of detail. Doors are solid, open and close with a thunk not a clang, seats are comfortable and fabric feels long lasting yet also soft to the touch.
I look forward to a test drive soon, but respected motoring journalists have already written about the Swift's eager progress and nippy handling. I have driven an even smaller car for over a year, and trust me, revving out a smaller car while keeping your license safe is a whale of fun. The Swift looks like it has the finesse, refinement and agility to keep this here maniac laughing all the way to the bank with the gas savings. You Yanks (and Southrons) don't know what you're missing. Bang on your Suzuki dealer's desk until they bring the Swift into America. You need it.
Reply
William Crabtree 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
I own the Geo Metro...'97. It is the American version of the last generation of the Swift. I have been wanting the next big thing to come over here like that. I have the 1.0 L 55hp. So I am interested in how well these cars handle and what kind of miles per gallon they get. It just makes me mad that "bigger is better" is the case here. I visit ssgti. Also check out the www.teamswift.net website...and there are numerous Yahoo websites dedicated to the car too. I believe they fit a niche...and with gas prices increasing..we need a car that is cheap and economical again. Yeah the Scion xA is nice..but I would like to see some competition! ..and if they are refined...the Swifts would be a lovely addition to our country...Suzuki can take back the crappy Aerio and every other car in their line...just bring back my Swift/Metro!
Reply
Michael 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
I'd buy a Swift in a second if they sold them here. Why can't Suzuki sell all their great mini-cars here, instead of those lame Daewoo rebadges?
Reply
Makka 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
My wife and I are just about to buy one over here in NZ. We were looking at fun small economical car that would be good for round city driving but would still cope well on the open road. We didn't even know about the swift but saw one at a Suzuki car yard next to the one we were looking around in. We instantly thought what a fantastic looking car. After taking it for a test drive we were blown away. The car is sexy but cute, has amazing cabin room, fantastic fittings like 6 airbags, CD/Radio, audio controls on the steering wheel, very nice trim, tumble folding seats for more storage etc. Top that off with a peppy engine that feels like a little sports car and a wide body with stiff chassis that corners beautifully and it's an absolute joy to drive as well.
So far the reviews for it worldwide have been fantastic and for good reason. Suzuki are on to a winner and judging by their world beating junior rally championship team switching from the Ignis to the Swift later this year I mean that literally.
Reply
Kris Donnelly-Sasser 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
I've been driving a 1989 Suzuki Swift GTI since I bought it new. Upkeep is minimal, the mpg is 35 in the city, accelerates like a spooked pronghorn, and corners like a hot brick. I'd like to see the Swife reintroduced to the American Market.
Reply
Brett 11:10PM (12/18/2005)
I test drove the swift today (December 12, 05) and fell in love with it. I was very impressed with the lack of "small car-itis" this little gem has. It handled well in the New Zealand hills, and was vewwy, vewwy quiet... I am testing several vehicles in this class at the moment. For now, the Swift leads the pack!
Reply