Suzuki Swift
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,207
Likes: 0
From: Seattle
If they did bring it over, they would at least have to fit in the 2.0L engine found in the Aerio. Looking at it, I don't think thats possible. But seriously, this would give the xA and/or Fit a run for the money.
Wannabe yuppie
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 25,918
Likes: 0
From: Madison, WI
Here's the car that Suzuki hopes will fly out of its showrooms. Developed to show that the firm is deadly serious about taking on Europe's best hatchbacks, the all-new Swift arrives early next year. Based on the Concept S first seen at the 2002 Paris Motor Show, the machine is one of Suzuki's most stylish models ever, boasting fresh, dynamic styling and a more upmarket cabin.
Auto Express was the first to drive the newcomer, on a track in Japan. Sitting longer, wider and lower than before, on a totally new platform, the Swift features a bold front end and a neat rear, giving a sportier presence than its predecessor. Engines include two petrol units, with a diesel to follow in the form of the 70bhp 1.3-litre from the Vauxhall Corsa and Fiat Punto. The 1.3 petrol powerplant generates 91bhp and 118Nm of torque, while the 1.5 model, driven here, offers 110bhp and 143Nm.
Our car's engine was responsive from 2,000rpm, but its optional four-speed auto box tended to wander. However, the five-ratio manual is a gem; perfectly matched to the even torque curve and with a positive feel and short throw. When the Swift - to be built at a plant in Hungary - arrives in Europe in spring 2005, a four-wheel-drive version will also be offered. But the revised drivetrains are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to on-road manners.
To get the European mix just right, Suzuki's engineers spent months driving a test mule on Spanish and UK back roads. They also took it on to German autobahns. The result is superb, with greatly improved chassis rigidity. The steering feels light in town, but at higher speeds it loads up nicely and gives plenty of feedback.
And the handling and ride combination is among the best in the class, with the front-drive car's rear end staying firmly planted no matter what you do. The Swift will understeer at the limit, but otherwise it corners as neutrally as any rival, with minimum body roll.
In contrast to the Japanese dampers fitted to the homegrown model, Monroe shock absorbers will be used in Europe to cater to the variety of surfaces and higher average speeds. Softer compound tyres will also be specified.
With vented front discs and a superbly weighted brake pedal, the Suzuki pulls up neatly with minimal nose dive. And standard-fit ABS, EBD and brake assist mean the Swift offers the latest in safety features. Both twin and side airbags are also standard.
Inside, the car's roominess betrays its compact exterior. There's plenty of head, leg and elbow room, even in the back. But it's the quantum leap in design flair and interior quality which makes the Swift stand out. The cloth-trimmed seats are firm and comfortable, while visibility is excellent all round. Fitted with higher-spec plastics than any Suzuki before it, the dash is simple yet stylish, with an MP3, MiniDisc and CD system incorporated into the facia.
We reckon the Swift's stylish looks, inspired handling and cabin quality will erase all memory of the outgoing model in Europeans buyers' minds.
(click for bigger versions)
Original article: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/?http:/...y.php?id=51858
Auto Express was the first to drive the newcomer, on a track in Japan. Sitting longer, wider and lower than before, on a totally new platform, the Swift features a bold front end and a neat rear, giving a sportier presence than its predecessor. Engines include two petrol units, with a diesel to follow in the form of the 70bhp 1.3-litre from the Vauxhall Corsa and Fiat Punto. The 1.3 petrol powerplant generates 91bhp and 118Nm of torque, while the 1.5 model, driven here, offers 110bhp and 143Nm.
Our car's engine was responsive from 2,000rpm, but its optional four-speed auto box tended to wander. However, the five-ratio manual is a gem; perfectly matched to the even torque curve and with a positive feel and short throw. When the Swift - to be built at a plant in Hungary - arrives in Europe in spring 2005, a four-wheel-drive version will also be offered. But the revised drivetrains are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to on-road manners.
To get the European mix just right, Suzuki's engineers spent months driving a test mule on Spanish and UK back roads. They also took it on to German autobahns. The result is superb, with greatly improved chassis rigidity. The steering feels light in town, but at higher speeds it loads up nicely and gives plenty of feedback.
And the handling and ride combination is among the best in the class, with the front-drive car's rear end staying firmly planted no matter what you do. The Swift will understeer at the limit, but otherwise it corners as neutrally as any rival, with minimum body roll.
In contrast to the Japanese dampers fitted to the homegrown model, Monroe shock absorbers will be used in Europe to cater to the variety of surfaces and higher average speeds. Softer compound tyres will also be specified.
With vented front discs and a superbly weighted brake pedal, the Suzuki pulls up neatly with minimal nose dive. And standard-fit ABS, EBD and brake assist mean the Swift offers the latest in safety features. Both twin and side airbags are also standard.
Inside, the car's roominess betrays its compact exterior. There's plenty of head, leg and elbow room, even in the back. But it's the quantum leap in design flair and interior quality which makes the Swift stand out. The cloth-trimmed seats are firm and comfortable, while visibility is excellent all round. Fitted with higher-spec plastics than any Suzuki before it, the dash is simple yet stylish, with an MP3, MiniDisc and CD system incorporated into the facia.
We reckon the Swift's stylish looks, inspired handling and cabin quality will erase all memory of the outgoing model in Europeans buyers' minds.
(click for bigger versions)
Original article: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/?http:/...y.php?id=51858
I eat plastic.
Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 15,177
Likes: 0
From: Detroit, MI
That looks like a really nice car.
And judging by how smooth their 2.0 DOHC is, their 1.5 is probably going to be very sweet. And reliable. And it isn't as cheesy as Scion (which try much too hard)
And judging by how smooth their 2.0 DOHC is, their 1.5 is probably going to be very sweet. And reliable. And it isn't as cheesy as Scion (which try much too hard)
Wannabe yuppie
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 25,918
Likes: 0
From: Madison, WI
So far there are no indications this car will be sold in the United States. Suzuki over here is basically GM's outlet for rebadged Daewoos. The Suzuki Verona is the Daewoo Leganza, the Forenza is the Nubira, and the Reno is the Lanos. Only the XL-7/Grand Vitara and Aerio are made by Suzuki. It'd be nice to see the Swift in this market though.
