Features / 10 March 2024 / Albert du Toit

GA vs GL vs GLX – The difference between the 3 Suzuki Swifts on sale in South Africa

The beloved Suzuki Swift is available in the local market in three trim levels comprising the entry-level GA, mid-range GL, and top-spec GLX.

Of course, there is also the fun-to-drive Swift Sport, but with its unique engine and suspension setup, the Sport basically sits in a league of its own.

So if you’re one of the many South Africans shopping for a normal Swift, it’s good to know the differences between the three specifications so that you don’t get less than what you bargained for.

GA vs GL vs GLX

One thing all three standard Swifts have in common is their powertrain, as each version is fitted with a 1.2-litre, naturally-aspirated petrol engine that produces 61kW and 113Nm.

The line-up is available with a five-speed manual gearbox that turns the front wheels and returns an average fuel consumption of 4.9l/100km. Going from a standstill to 100km/h takes approximately 12 seconds, and the speedometer tops out at 170km/h.

The Swift GL and GLX – but not the GA – are also sold with a five-speed automatic cog swapper which elevates the 0-100km/h time to 13.5 seconds and brings down top speed to 165km/h without affecting fuel usage, according to Suzuki.

Swift GA and GL wheels

In the design department, the base Swift GA wears a solid paint scheme, a black grille with chrome accents, black side mirrors, and 14-inch steel wheels with plastic covers.

The GL was on the receiving end of colour-coded door mirrors with built-in turn signals and electric adjustability, front fog lamps, and the option to get a two-tone roof.

The pinnacle GLX is the only one that gets folding outside mirrors, as well as 15-inch polished alloy wheels that lend it an easily differentiable look.

Across the range, the hatchback’s paint palette comprises Arctic Premium White, Metallic Lucent Orange, Metallic Magma Grey, Metallic Silky Silver, Premium Midnight Blue, and Solid Fire Red.

Swift GL interior

While their looks slightly differ, where these Suzukis are truly set apart from one another is with their equipment.

On the base GA, standard fitments comprise a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, all-round electric windows, remote central locking, a manual aircon, and a central speedometer with a multi-information display for figures such as fuel consumption and remaining range.

Safety systems encompass an alarm and immobiliser, an electronic stability programme, ABS with brake assist and electronic force distribution, and two airbags.

The GL is then delivered with luxuries such as a multifunction steering wheel, a rev counter, and a radio with Bluetooth as well as USB and Aux inputs. Exclusively for the automatic variant, an outside temperature gauge and hill-hold control are also included.

On top of what is already in the other models, the priciest GLX brings keyless entry and push-button start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera, silver interior trimmings, and luggage area lighting.

Speaking of the boot, the one in this hatchback carries 268 litres, which grows to 579 litres with the seats collapsed – though keep in mind that only the rear seats on the GL and GLX are foldable, and not those on the GA.