But what we have here is the new Suzuki Swift Sport - a very capable "budget" hot-hatch that is ideal for daily commute and also some occasional canyon-carving, which costs less than RM110,000.
Launched last June, the new Swift Sport has gone through a few discreet but significant changes. The 1.6-litre M16A engine has been tweaked to produce 134hp and 160Nm of torque, which is 9hp and 12Nm more than the outgoing model. The five-speed gearbox has also been replaced with a new six-speed transmission.
Besides the increase in power, the car is more fuel efficient than its predecessor (6.5L/100km), and comes with a firmer suspension set-up. It is also 5mm wider and 125mm longer. Despite the growth in dimensions, it is 30kg lighter than the outgoing model, standing at 1,070kg (manual).
Outside, the Swift Sport features full bodykit, side skirts, a spoiler, a large single-frame grille, bi-xenon headlamps, twin exhaust pipes and 16-inch wheels, making it look noticeably sportier than the 1.4 variant.
The sporty treatment continues inside as well, with sports seats, faux-aluminium trim, stainless steel pedals and sporty instrument dials. As far as safety is concerned, the new Swift Sport comes with six airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, full three-point seat belts and Isofix mounts.
On paper, 134hp and 160Nm did not sound like a big deal but after driving it, we felt that the Swift Sport is anything but dull. It was not blistering fast but it moved up to speed in a very lively manner, from low rpm all the way to 7,000rpm.
Regardless of whether it was on the highway or twisty coastal roads, it was a case of "ask and you shall receive". The car just kept going every time we pressed the accelerator pedal. The harder we pushed it, the more eager it was to perform.
What made the Swift Sport such an enjoyable car to drive was the improved power-to-weight ratio and the firmer suspensions. As light as it felt, the car handled corners respectably with minimal body roll and amazing level of grip and composure. The six-speed manual shifter offered flawless changes as well. However, the steering felt a bit too light for our liking at times and would have been more engaging if it felt heavier.
As nippy as it was on the Sepang International Circuit and some twisty uphill roads, the Swift Sport was a very comfortable and practical car to be driven in the city. The soft clutch and smooth gearbox offered effortless driving experience, and we were not even tired when we were caught in an hour long traffic jam along the Sprint Highway.
The only thing we did not like about the Swift Sport and the new Swift (since they are the same physically) was the cramped up boot. It is more than enough for a person or a couple to store their luggage for a weekend getaway but it is not going to be easy if you are planning to go somewhere far with your family of four.
Although luggage space was a little disappointing, five adults could fit into the car and sit comfortably on long distance trips. Despite featuring suspensions that are firmer than the normal Swift and previous Swift Sport, the ride was just as comfortable and not bumpy at all.
That said, the new Suzuki Swift Sport is a solid and appealing all-rounder. While it is an ideal car for daily usage, it is also tremendous fun when driven hard.
Specifications of the Suzuki Swift Sport 1.6 (M/T)
Engine: M16A 1.6-litre VVT, naturally aspirated
Displacement: 1,586cc
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Max power: 134hp @ 6,900rpm
Max torque: 160Nm @ 4,400rpm
Fuel consumption: 6.5L/100km
Recommended fuel: RON 97
Features: Six airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, Isofix mounts, keyless entry, push start ignition
Price: RM102,888 (OTR without insurance)
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