The Suzuki Swift is a supermini car manufactured and marketed globally by Suzuki. Now in its seventh generation, the Swift has become a mainstay in Suzuki’s lineup, known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling. The Suzuki Swift VII 1.2 (82 Hp) 4WD CVT, introduced in December 2023, represents the latest iteration of this popular model, offering a compact and practical solution for urban transportation, particularly in markets where smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles are highly valued. While not directly sold in the United States, the Swift occupies a similar market segment to vehicles like the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris, focusing on practicality and economy.
Suzuki Swift VII: An Overview
The seventh-generation Swift, launched in 2023, builds upon the strengths of its predecessors with updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced safety features. This generation maintains the Swift’s core values of being a lightweight, affordable, and enjoyable-to-drive vehicle. The 1.2-liter 4WD CVT variant is particularly notable for offering all-wheel drive capability in a supermini segment where it’s relatively uncommon, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. This model is primarily targeted towards European and Asian markets, where demand for compact, all-weather vehicles is strong.
Engine & Performance
The Suzuki Swift VII 1.2 (82 Hp) 4WD CVT is powered by a 1.2-liter, inline-three cylinder gasoline engine, designated the Z12E. This naturally aspirated engine produces 82 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 108 Nm (79.66 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The all-wheel-drive system operates by permanently driving the front wheels and engaging the rear wheels through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch when needed, enhancing stability and grip. The weight-to-power ratio is 12.1 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 9.2 kg/Nm, contributing to a responsive driving experience despite the modest power output. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop System to further improve fuel economy.
Design & Features
The Swift VII maintains the traditional hatchback body style, offering five seats and five doors. Its dimensions are compact, measuring 3,860 mm (151.97 in) in length, 1,695 mm (66.73 in) in width, and 1,525 mm (60.04 in) in height. The vehicle’s design emphasizes a sporty and modern aesthetic. Key features include a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar for comfortable handling, and a coil spring torsion beam rear suspension. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear, supplemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The Swift VII incorporates electric power steering for ease of maneuverability. The 175/65 R15 84H tires are mounted on 15-inch wheel rims. The interior focuses on practicality and functionality, offering a comfortable space for passengers and a reasonable amount of cargo capacity. While specific interior features vary by trim level and market, the Swift VII generally includes modern infotainment systems and essential safety equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Swift |
| Generation | Swift VII |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (82 Hp) 4WD CVT |
| Start of production | December, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.0 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 106 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 108 Nm @ 4500 rpm (79.66 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z12E |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT |
| Kerb Weight | 990 kg (2182.58 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 37 l (9.77 US gal | 8.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 3860 mm (151.97 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.4 m (30.84 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | CVT (automatic transmission) |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 175/65 R15 84H |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Suzuki Swift VII 1.2 (82 Hp) 4WD CVT represents a compelling option in the supermini segment, particularly for drivers seeking a fuel-efficient, practical, and capable vehicle for navigating urban environments and challenging weather conditions. Its combination of a compact size, all-wheel drive, and modern features makes it a popular choice in its target markets.
