Living up to the name

What we like:

The renowned Swift handling and eager little engine

What we dislike:

It’s not very big on space

The Swift was a pretty heart-warming car to drive when we got behind the wheel previously and being mechanically identical this new SE is no different.

Immediately noticeable is the steering feel, which is quick, precise and communicative. All these plus points really make you wonder what the fuss is about with the electric power steering hype in the motor industry.

The suspension is also mostly a joy to drive around with, because it’s taut and adept at keeping the car composed no matter what you do with it. Body roll is kept to a bare minimum and if you don’t try and drive it like a madman you’ll hardly notice the understeer as the car eagerly goes around bends.

While it’s not exactly meant to be sporty, the ride characteristic leans more towards firm rather than comfy which is reassuring if you are the type that drives a little more aggressively. However when your mother decides she needs to go to the market and you’re up for chauffer duty, you might want to take it a little slower if you catch my drift.

The same 1.4l 94 bhp engine powers the Swift SE, and really breathes life into the overall character of the car. It may not be what you’d call powerful, but the little 4-potter is happy to take itself to the redline and will eagerly do so when you put your foot down. 130 Nm of torque is adequate to be fun but not frightening and aids the sense of agility that the Swift is so well-known for.

While the 4-speed auto is nothing to shout about, it does its job without any hiccups albeit at the expense of driver involvement. A peppy car like this should be driven with a stick, but with the advent of Class 3A, something’s clearly changing.

This is a happy car make no mistake; and if you get behind the wheel of one I’m pretty sure you would be too. With the new makeup that Suzuki has applied to the interior and exterior of the car, you might just remember how excited you were when you bought your first little car all those years ago. And should this be your first love now, well cheers mate.

Credits: Story and Photos by Alvan Sio