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 held significant prominence in Europe, Asia, and Australia as an affordable, fuel-efficient, and practical city car. This generation marked a substantial departure from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary design and improved mechanicals. The 1.3 i 16V Automatic variant, equipped with a 92 horsepower engine, was a common configuration, aimed at providing a balance between economy and usability for everyday driving.
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. It offered a choice of three or five-door body styles, providing flexibility to suit different needs. The 1.3-liter engine, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, was intended to deliver smooth and convenient operation, especially in congested city environments. The Swift IV aimed to modernize the Swift nameplate, offering a more refined driving experience and improved safety features compared to earlier models.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Suzuki Swift IV 1.3 i 16V is a 1.3-liter (1328 cm3 or 81.04 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine, designated the M13A, produces 92 horsepower (Hp) at 5800 rpm and 116 Newton-meters (85.56 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4200 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for typical urban and suburban driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 11.9 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The power-to-weight ratio is 10.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 8.6 kg/Nm, reflecting the car’s lightweight construction.
Design & Features
The Suzuki Swift IV adopted a more rounded and modern aesthetic compared to previous generations. The hatchback body style, available in both three and five-door configurations, offered a practical and versatile layout. Inside, the Swift IV provided seating for five passengers, although rear passenger space was somewhat limited. The interior design prioritized functionality and ease of use, with a straightforward dashboard layout and comfortable seating. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in more expensive vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. Power steering, utilizing an electric system, further enhanced the driving experience. The trunk (boot) space offered between 213 liters (7.52 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and 562 liters (19.85 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, providing reasonable cargo capacity for a vehicle of its size. The Swift IV’s design focused on maximizing interior space within a compact footprint, making it well-suited for navigating crowded city streets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Swift |
| Generation | Swift IV |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 i 16V (92 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) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 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 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Suzuki Swift IV 1.3 i 16V Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, represented a solid and reliable option in the subcompact hatchback segment. Its fuel efficiency, practicality, and ease of use made it a popular choice for drivers seeking an affordable and dependable city car, particularly in markets outside of North America.
