Suzuki Swift 2024 review
Photo: Oq10pass (CC0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Suzuki Swift has always been the cheerful underdog of the UK supermini market, and the 2024 model sharpens that appeal with a new 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid engine. It is light, honest and properly fun on a B-road, with steering that feels connected and a chassis that loves to be driven briskly. Inside, the cabin is simple rather than luxurious, but everything important is within reach and build quality is solid where it matters.
On UK roads the Swift makes a strong case. The mild-hybrid system keeps CO2 low and fuel bills tiny, while the short body slips through city traffic and into tight parking bays with ease. Insurance groups are low, servicing is cheap, and Suzuki dealers are known for friendly, straightforward aftercare. Rivals like the Toyota Yaris and Renault Clio offer more polish, but few match the Swift for smiles per pound.
If you want an affordable, dependable runaround that still entertains on a country lane, the Swift is one of the smartest buys in its class. It is the kind of car you buy with your head and end up loving with your heart.
UK price from: £19,500
Specifications
| Engine | 1.2L 3-cylinder mild-hybrid |
| Power | 83PS |
| 0-60 mph | 12.5s |
| Top speed | 106mph |
| Fuel economy | 64.2mpg |
| CO2 | 99g/km |
| Boot space | 265L |
| Length | 3.86m |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drive | Front-wheel drive |
Features
- 1.2-litre three-cylinder mild-hybrid engine
- 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist and traffic sign recognition
- Blind spot monitoring
- Keyless entry and start
- Automatic LED headlights
- 60:40 split-folding rear seats
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £34.99 | Brembo-equivalent ceramic pads; DIY-friendly with basic tools |
| Oil filter | £7.99 | Genuine-type filter; replace at every annual service |
| Cabin pollen filter | £12.99 | Fits behind the glovebox; swap in under 10 minutes |
| Wiper blades (pair) | £19.99 | Flat aero blades, driver and passenger side |
| 12V battery | £89.99 | Standard fitment; mild-hybrid system needs a healthy 12V battery |
| Timing chain kit | £149.99 | Chain-driven engine, but inspect tensioners past 100k miles |
Pros
- Brilliant fuel economy from the mild-hybrid powertrain
- Nimble handling that makes town and B-roads fun
- Low insurance groups and cheap servicing
- Compact size is ideal for city parking
Cons
- Cabin plastics feel basic next to a Yaris or Clio
- Boot space is modest at 265 litres
- Engine is buzzy when pushed hard
- No fully electric option in the range



