Auto Expo 2018 became ground for the launch of Maruti Suzuki’s third-generation Swift Hatchback. Prices start at ₹4.99 lakh for the base variant and going up to ₹8.29 lakh for the top-spec trim (ex-showroom, Delhi). In a segment first of sorts, the Swift will offer Automated manual transmission or AMT variants on both petrol as well as diesel engines. Buyers can choose their Swift from12 different variants and trims.
In terms of pricing, the New Swift is about ₹20,000-40,000 more expensive than the outgoing model (priced between ₹4.80-7.46 lakh). However, it is priced about ₹40,000 more than the base Hyundai Grand i10 (priced between ₹4.60-7.41 lakh).
The third generation Swift’s design is very evolutionary and still not straying too far away from original car’s look. Sharing its underpinnings with the Baleno and Dzire, the new Swift is built on Suzuki’s Heartect platform. It is larger than the car it replaces in terms of width and longer wheelbase which makes for more interior room and also results in an increase in luggage space (up by 58litres). Another positive are the weight savings (40 kgs lighter) which has helped contribute towards better fuel economy and Maruti claims 22kmpl for the petrol models and 28.4 kmpl for the diesel.
Engines have been carried over unchanged with the 1.2-litre petrol still makes 83hp and 113Nm of torque, while the 1.3-litre Fiat-sourced diesel making 75hp and 190Nm. While the five-speed manual transmission is standard, the five-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) is available as an option for both motors as mentioned earlier.
In terms of equipment, the top-spec ZXi/ZDi variants come with LED projector headlamps and daytime running lamps, a reverse parking camera and a 7.0-inch Smartplay touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Safety features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, and Isofix child seat mounts are standard across the range.
