The distinctive style and European-inspired driving dynamics of Suzuki Swift form the perfect basis for Suzuki Swift Sport, a high performance derivative that delivers great looks, dynamic prowess and pure driving pleasure.
Developed in the fast and demanding arena of the Junior World Rally Championship, Suzuki Swift Sport is the real deal, not simply another warmed-over supermini.
Building on feedback from the Suzuki's motor sport programme, it combines a sports-tuned version of the capable Swift chassis with a competition-honed, high-revving 1.6-litre VVT engine to deliver an intoxicating mixture of responsive performance and agile handling that has instant driver appeal.
The 0 to 62mph acceleration benchmark comes up in just 8.9 seconds - quicker than the MINI Cooper.
Key styling elements that set Suzuki Swift Sport apart from the mainstream range include a deeper front bumper with an additional, distinctive lower grille; a redesigned rear bumper and tail lights; and stylish 10-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a striking red and black trim colour combination, sports seats and detail highlights such as stainless steel pedals.
The uprated chassis benefits from stiffer springs and dampers, with ESP® (Electronic Stability Control) adding handling security.
Standard equipment includes automatic air conditioning, curtain airbags, MP3-audio compatibility, front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls and Keyless entry and start.
The three-door, four-seat Suzuki Swift Sport was launched in the UK in mid 2006 and the on-the-road price is £12,740 including metallic paint. It is manufactured, along with the rest of the Swift range, by the Magyar Suzuki Corporation in Hungary.
Swift by name, swift by nature
The twin-cam 1.6-litre VVT petrol engine has been fully tried and tested in the heat of top-level rallying competition, powering Suzuki Swift Sport in the Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) and now for the second year running, the UK based Swift Sport Cup Champion series.
The M16A 16-valve, 1,586cc unit delivers maximum power of 125PS at 6,800rpm, with peak torque of 148Nm generated at 4,800rpm. Acceleration from standstill to 62mph is accomplished in 8.9 seconds and top speed is 124mph. For all this sporting character, Suzuki Swift Sport still returns a creditable 39.8mpg (combined cycle).
From October 2009; latest revisions to the engine programming development for the Suzuki Swift Sport have resulted in a reduction in CO2 emissions from 171g/km to 165g/km and a drop in annual VED from £175 (Band H) to £150 (Band G) for lower cost of ownership.
This level of performance is made possible thanks to a number of engine components tuned exclusively for the model. Variable valve timing optimises efficiency to deliver prodigious torque and strong acceleration across the rev range, with high-lift intake and exhaust cams boosting performance at high revs. An electronic throttle provides close control and maximises responsiveness, while the intake manifold has specially widened intake runners and polished internal surfaces to enhance the incoming airflow for higher power. Features such as pistons warm-forged for strength and oil jet cooled increase durability and allow a high, 11.1:1 compression ratio for greater output.
A high capacity exhaust system plays its part in boosting efficiency, as well as sounding great with a resonant, full-bodied note that adds yet another dimension to Suzuki Swift Sport's all-round driving pleasure.
The 1.6-litre engine is mated to a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and uprated clutch. Suzuki paid particular attention to tuning the quality of the gear selection mechanism and the result is an effortless, slick shifting action, allowing rapid and positive changes that further enhance the driving experience.
Inspiration at the wheel
Suzuki Swift Sport's size and neat packaging equip it perfectly for city life, but at the same time its performance and dynamics guarantee pure driving pleasure on open and challenging roads.
The wide track and 2.38m wheelbase form the ideal foundation for delivering excitement and confidence in equal measure. Specially stiffened and strengthened components providing even greater agility and control than is enjoyed on the standard Swift models, while retaining a comfortable ride. The all-round tautness of the chassis is further supported by an inherently stiff bodyshell.
MacPherson strut suspension is deployed at the front, with a torsion beam and coil springs at the rear, the low unsprung weight enabling effective control of camber angle and toe-in to deliver accurate and predictable handling. Monroe shock absorbers - exclusive to the Sport in the Swift range - provide enhanced damping characteristics, while the model also benefits from uprated springs and bushings.
ESP® (electronic stability control) is provided as standard, ensuring stable and exciting driving performance, but is tuned not to be overly intrusive. ESP® identifies potentially dangerous driving situations and through the use of engine torque control and selective braking of individual wheels, works to bring the car back into line in the event of oversteer or understeer, before the driver risks losing control of the vehicle.
The electronically controlled power steering system gives an optimum balance between effort and instant feedback, ensuring the driver feels in touch with the road at all times. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels with low profile tyres provide excellent grip, while the use of large disc brakes - ventilated at the front - gives confidence-inspiring stopping power with a linear feel.