There’s a new hybrid model, but no word on Singapore availability just yet

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SINGAPORE

Suzuki has just released images of an updated Swift, which could go on sale here in early 2021. The versatile compact hatchback is currently only available with a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine in Singapore, but the launch of the new 1.2-litre engine with enhanced hybrid drive could shake things up a bit. 

Bodywork changes appear to be minimal, but the K12D, 1.2-litre petrol engine is new. It replaces the outgoing K12C engine, which has a higher CO2 emissions figure.

Rated at 83 horsepower, the new engine is paired with a 12-volt hybrid system for improved efficiency. Essentially a mild hybrid system, the car uses an Integrated Starter Generator that functions as a 50Nm power booster and a starter motor. 

When required, the ISG can pull on a 10Ah lithium-ion battery to produce up to 2.3kW. This is combined with the internal combustion engine’s output for a power boost when accelerating. As with all current automotive hybrid systems, the battery pack recharges through regenerative braking. A continuously variable transmission is an option on European specification cars, and when so equipped the 0 to 100km/h sprint is achieved in 12.2 seconds.

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It may not be all that quick, but it boasts an emissions rating of just 111g/km, as measured on the WLTP cycle, and an official fuel economy figure of an astonishing 4.9l/100km. 

European specification models will also be getting adaptive cruise control and a seven-inch touch panel display that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.

Early in 2020 Suzuki also launched the Swift Sport Hybrid, which features a 48V electric system and 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The car is currently the only self-charging, compact performance hatchback of its kind, though it is not officially available in Singapore through official dealer Champion Motors. 

Once one of the best-selling small cars in Singapore, the Swift has lost ground to the currently trending crossover craze but it’s still a very well-built, economical car at heart. The current version on sale here is one of the better options in its price segment, offering a 110 horsepower turbo engine, six-speed automatic transmission, six airbags and ESP.  

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The current-gen car is available in 119 countries, and more than 745,000 of them have been sold since 2017.

Still, it’s early days for the updated Suzuki Swift, and Champion Motors has not yet confirmed the exact specifications that we will be receiving for Singapore. Considering that the Swift is a highly versatile platform and can be currently found worldwide sporting a wide variety of engines, we will be watching closely for any news updates from Suzuki. 

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