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 1.3 i 16V variant, equipped with a 1.3-liter engine producing 92 horsepower, was a mainstay of the lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy. This generation marked a significant departure from its predecessor, adopting a more modern and rounded design, and incorporating improved safety features and interior refinement.
Suzuki Swift IV 1.3 i 16V: An Overview
The Swift IV was designed to appeal to a broad demographic, particularly young drivers and urban commuters. Its compact size made it easy to maneuver in congested city streets, while its relatively spacious interior provided comfortable seating for five passengers. The 1.3 i 16V model specifically targeted buyers seeking a cost-effective and reliable vehicle with reasonable performance for everyday driving. It was positioned as a direct competitor to other subcompact hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Toyota Yaris, offering a compelling alternative with its distinctive styling and value proposition.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Swift IV 1.3 i 16V is a 1.328-liter (81.04 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the M13A. This naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum power output of 92 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 116 Newton-meters (85.56 lb-ft) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11 seconds and a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 10.9 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 8.6 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably efficient powertrain for its class. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption rated at 6.0 liters per 100 kilometers (39.2 US mpg or 47.1 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Swift IV adopted a more contemporary and rounded aesthetic compared to previous generations. The hatchback body style provides practical cargo space, with a minimum of 213 liters (7.52 cubic feet) expanding to 562 liters (19.85 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions – 3695 mm (145.47 in) in length, 1690 mm (66.54 in) in width, and 1500 mm (59.06 in) in height – contribute to its maneuverability. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The interior, though basic, was designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five and a functional dashboard layout. Electric power steering was also a standard feature, enhancing ease of driving. The Swift IV’s design prioritized a youthful and energetic appearance, appealing to a younger demographic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Swift |
| Generation | Swift IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i 16V (92 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 92 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 116 Nm @ 4200 rpm (85.56 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M13A |
| Engine displacement | 1328 cm3 (81.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 69.5 mm (2.74 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 | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Suzuki Swift IV 1.3 i 16V, while not a performance icon, offered a practical and economical transportation solution for a wide range of drivers. Its blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and compact dimensions made it a popular choice in its target markets, solidifying the Swift’s reputation as a reliable and versatile subcompact hatchback.
