The Suzuki Swift IV, produced between 2004 and 2010, represents the fourth generation of the popular Suzuki Swift subcompact hatchback. While not initially a major player in the North American market, the Swift has enjoyed considerable success in Europe, Asia, and Australia as an affordable, fuel-efficient, and practical city car. The 1.5 i 16V Automatic variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 102 horsepower, was a common configuration, offering a balance between performance and economy. This generation marked a significant step forward in terms of design, safety, and overall refinement compared to its predecessors.
Suzuki Swift IV: An Overview
The Swift IV was designed to appeal to a younger demographic, emphasizing a sporty aesthetic and nimble handling. Available in both 3-door and 5-door configurations, it offered a versatile package for urban commuters and small families. The introduction of the automatic transmission option broadened its appeal, making it more accessible to drivers seeking convenience. The Swift IV competed with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, and Volkswagen Polo, offering a compelling alternative with its distinctive styling and value proposition.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Swift IV 1.5 i 16V Automatic is a 1.5-liter (1490 cm3) inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M15A. This naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum power output of 102 horsepower at 5900 rpm and 133 Nm (98.1 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4100 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the Swift IV achieves a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) acceleration time of 11.7 seconds, and a 0 to 60 mph time of 11.1 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 9.9 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.6 kg/Nm contribute to a reasonably responsive driving experience for its class.
Design & Features
The Swift IV adopted a more modern and rounded design language compared to earlier generations. Its hatchback body style provides a practical and space-efficient layout. The interior offers seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space is somewhat limited, typical for a subcompact vehicle. Key features included an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as a standard safety feature, enhancing braking performance and stability. The interior design focused on functionality and ease of use, with a straightforward dashboard layout and comfortable seating. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 213 liters (7.52 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 562 liters (19.85 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, providing adequate cargo capacity for everyday needs. The vehicle’s dimensions are 3695 mm (145.47 in.) in length, 1690 mm (66.54 in.) in width, and 1500 mm (59.06 in.) in height, making it well-suited for navigating congested urban environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Swift |
| Generation | Swift IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 i 16V (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Torque | 133 Nm @ 4100 rpm (98.1 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M15A |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1010 kg (2226.67 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 213 l (7.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 562 l (19.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3695 mm (145.47 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2380 mm (93.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
The Suzuki Swift IV 1.5 i 16V Automatic, while not a performance car, offered a practical and economical transportation solution. Its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use made it a popular choice in its target markets, solidifying the Swift’s reputation as a reliable and versatile subcompact hatchback.
