India-bound 2017 Suzuki Swift revealed

The next-generation Suzuki Swift gets updated exterior design, better looking interior and more features

After a long wait, endless rumours and some leaked images, Suzuki has finally taken the wraps off the next-generation Swift. One of the biggest grouses with the current-gen model was that it failed to visually differentiate it from its predecessor. This third-generation model however leaves no reason to complain in that regard. Up front the 2017 Suzuki Swift looks like it has gained some inspiration from Maserati designs, especially with the protruding front grille, u-shaped air-dams and the pulled back headlamps. A larger front lip and side skirts give the new Swift a sporty appeal. Retaining some of the Swift DNA, this new model continues to get the stubby bonnet and the sloping roofline. The rear too has been redesigned and it now looks a lot more edgy and contemporary.

The interior too has been completely redone. The 2017 Suzuki Swift gets a new flat-bottom steering wheel that appears nice and chunky to grip. The twin-pod analogue instrumentation behind the wheel gets red backlighting and easily legible fonts. The central AC vents and the climate controls in the middle are now circular. Splitting the two is a large touchscreen infotainment system that will come with Bluetooth, AUX and USB connectivity. In fact, it might also come equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and in-built navigation system. Front seats look like they are better bolstered and all three passengers at the back get head restraints.

The new Swift shares it underpinnings with the Baleno hatchback, so expect it to shed some weight. In fact, it is also likely to be lighter than its hatchback sibling. In the international market, the Swift comes with a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor and a 1.4-litre BoosterJet motor. The India-spec model however will continue to sport the same set of engines – a 1.2-litre petrol unit and the Fiat sourced 1.3-litre oil burner.

Expect the Maruti Suzuki Swift to come to our shores by mid-2017. When launched, it will be priced marginally higher than the current Swift but cheaper than the Baleno. We expect it to carry a sticker price of about Rs 4.9 lakh to Rs 7 lakh.