Suzuki has just unveiled a concept version of the next-generation Swift at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, giving motorists their first real-world glimpse of what they can expect from the iconic hatchback.
Now in its fourth generation, the Swift will retain its fundamental shape but has seen several aesthetic tweaks and new features added to give it the modern look and feel demanded by today’s motorists.
It is reportedly set to go on sale in India in the second half of 2024, hinting that South Africa may be able to get its hands on the new Swift towards the end of next year, or in early 2025.
Everything new
The Swift presented to the media at the Japan Mobility Show is a concept model intended to showcase the design of the new body and interior before it officially goes into production.
While this means there could still be a few changes down the line, the Swift Concept currently on display in Tokyo should provide an accurate assessment of what the public will eventually be driving.
As far as its design is concerned, the new model has kept the same rough dimensions as the third generation that went on sale in 2017 but is now rocking a new set of alloy wheels and slim LED daytime running lights that underscore the redesigned headlights.
The front fog lights appear to have been swapped out for a much smaller pair of LED bulbs, and the slightly larger grille has a cleaner look with much larger gaps in its pattern.
The rear has also been spruced up with a new tail lamp design, and a dual-tone bumper that matches the roof.
A similar treatment has been afforded to the interior, as AutoTrader South Africa was able to capture a short video showing off a two-tone theme with a black dashboard and white elements for the lower panels, parts of the doors, the centre console, and around the aircon vents.
Likewise, the steering wheel and cloth upholstery appear to have a subtle but appreciable white cross-stitch pattern on them.
Of course, a few components remain unchanged, such as the multifunction steering wheel which appears to be the same as the one seen on other recent Suzuki models like the Baleno and Fronx.
However, one big change is a new electronic handbrake which has freed up a lot of space in the lower console for a storage bin, and the dash now features a floating 9.0-inch infotainment screen with separate climate controls.
The instrument cluster still gets two analogue dials, but it has been revised for better visibility and to include an improved multi-information driver’s display.
According to the automaker, the Swift will also receive items like ventilated front seats, an electric sunroof, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, a wireless charger, and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), depending on both the market and the trim level selected.
The one thing the manufacturer has yet to speak about is the hatchback’s engine, though it is widely speculated that the next-gen units will keep the same 1.2-litre, naturally-aspirated powertrain as its predessesor.
A major change is that the engine is now expected to come standard with 48V mild-hybrid technology, likely as a necessity to continue selling the car in markets like the European Union with its strict emission laws, but this has yet to be confirmed.
Loading ...
