The Suzuki Swift IV 1.6 i 16V Sport, produced between 2007 and 2010, represents a performance-oriented iteration of the fourth-generation Suzuki Swift. While the Swift is a globally recognized nameplate, its role and significance varied by market. In Europe, and particularly the United Kingdom, the Swift IV was a popular choice in the supermini segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo. The “Sport” variant, with its 1.6-liter engine, aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience than the standard models, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a nimble and affordable hatchback.
Suzuki Swift IV 1.6 i 16V Sport: Overview
The Swift IV, launched in 2005, marked a significant departure from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary and rounded design. The 1.6 i 16V Sport model, introduced a couple of years later, built upon this foundation with enhancements to the engine, suspension, and styling. It wasn’t officially sold in the United States, but it gained a following among import car enthusiasts. The Swift IV aimed to balance practicality, affordability, and a degree of driving enjoyment, making it a competitive offering in the crowded European supermini market.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Swift IV 1.6 i 16V Sport is its 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the M16A. This naturally aspirated engine produces 125 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 11:1. This configuration delivers a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 8.8 kg/Hp, contributing to the car’s lively performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 8.9 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in a calculated 8.5 seconds. The car boasts a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The engine’s power per liter is 78.8 Hp/l, indicating a relatively efficient design for its time.
Design & Features
The Swift IV 1.6 i 16V Sport is a three-door hatchback with seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by its rounded lines and relatively compact dimensions, measuring 3765 mm (148.23 in) in length, 1690 mm (66.54 in) in width, and 1500 mm (59.06 in) in height. The Sport model typically featured subtle styling enhancements over the standard Swift, such as a rear spoiler, sportier alloy wheels (17-inch), and potentially unique front and rear bumper designs. Inside, the cabin prioritized functionality and space efficiency. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which was standard equipment. The trunk offers 213 liters (7.52 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 495 liters (17.48 cu. ft.) when folded down. The car’s kerb weight is 1105 kg (2436.11 lbs), and it has a maximum load capacity of 380 kg (837.76 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Swift |
| Generation | Swift IV |
| Type | 1.6 i 16V (125 Hp) Sport |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4800 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M16A |
| Engine displacement | 1586 cm3 (96.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| 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 | 1105 kg (2436.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1485 kg (3273.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 380 kg (837.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 213 l (7.52 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 495 l (17.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3765 mm (148.23 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 | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 | 195/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Suzuki Swift IV 1.6 i 16V Sport, while not a high-volume seller in all markets, offered a compelling package for those seeking an affordable and enjoyable small car. Its combination of a peppy engine, nimble handling, and practical hatchback body style made it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts.
