According to Japanese reports, Suzuki will unveil the 4th generation 2017 Suzuki Swift in Japan on 27th of December 2016, ahead of its world debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show in March.
The new Swift was earlier speculated to premiere in Japan in May, after its Geneva debut, but reports believe that Suzuki set the launch date in this December due to competition, specifically the Toyota Vitz. Toyota will introduce a facelift for the Vitz on 12th January 2017 in Japan, so Suzuki hopes to steal its thunder with the launch of all new Swift.
A brochure of the model has leaked online, revealing most of the final details including prices. Regular variants of the new Swift are priced between 1,343,520 yen – 1,875,960 yen (PKR 11.92 lac – PKR 16.65 lac), while the RS variants cost between 1,594,080 yen – 1,800,360 yen (PKR 14.14 lac – PKR 15.97 lac).
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For the Japanese market, Suzuki will launch two models: a regular one (XL, XG and Hybrid) and RS model (RS, RSt, Hybrid RS). The brochure also gives us a first undisguised look at the new 4th gen Swift. The exterior is an evolutionary step up from the outgoing model, while still retaining the traditional Swift design cues. You don’t need to see the ‘Swift’ badge on its tailgate, the design is very recognizable and unmistakably Swift!
The interior however, has received a bigger overhaul. It looks cleaner, more contemporary and could have better perceived quality than the outgoing model. Some of the noticeable features include a new flat-bottom steering wheel with sleek buttons, twin pod instrument dials with a large multi-info display, new center console design with circular HVAC vents and new HVAC controls, and an optional touch-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay.
The regular variants (XG, XL, Hybrid ML) are powered by a 1.2L DOHC VVT 4-cyl petrol engine available with a 5-speed manual or CVT gearbox. The Hybrid ML gets Suzuki’s SHVS system, which integrates a starter/ generator and regenerative braking. In the JC08 cycle, the Swift Hybrid ML can average a fuel efficiency of 27.4 km/L (2WD CVT). All three variants with the CVT option can be had with an AWD system.
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The 2017 Suzuki Swift RS variants come with three engine options: a 1.2L 4-cyl DOHC VVT petrol engine, 1.2L 4-cyl DOHC VVT with SHVS, and 1.0L DOHC Boosterjet (turbocharged) 3-cyl petrol engine. Like the regular Swift, the 1.2L option in Swift RS comes with either a 5-speed manual or CVT (AWD optional), while the 1.0L Boosterjet variant (RSt) gets a 6-speed automatic with steering-mounted paddle-shifters. The 1.0L can average a fuel economy of 20.0 km/L (JC08 cycle).
Also available is the option of a Safety Pack, which comprises of Dual Camera Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, and speed limiter, ESP and Hill Hold Assist.
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Pak Suzuki has been gearing up its game by launching the Vitara in December followed by Ciaz in early 2017, thanks to the Auto Policy 2016-21 and the upcoming competition. Launch of Suzuki Celerio hatchback is also on cards as a replacement of the aging Cultus, though there is no word on replacement of the 2nd gen Swift which is here unchanged since 2010.
Pak Suzuki is yet to launch the 3rd gen Swift in Pakistan, however looking at their recent hyperactive campaigns; one may expect them to skip the 3rd gen Swift altogether (like Indus skipped the E110 Corolla) and bring us the 4th gen Swift as a replacement of the current 2nd gen model. Let’s see how things unfold!
from ToyoKeizai
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
