The third-generation Suzuki Swift Sport debuts at Frankfurt and promises more potency thanks to lighter weight and more torque from a turbocharged engine.
The kerb weight of the brand’s popular performance model – which Suzuki now says can be regarded as a genuine hot hatch – has been cut by some 80kg. The Swift Sport now tips the scales at between 965 and 975kg, depending whether the start-stop system is specified.
In place of the previous model’s 1.6-litre Boosterjet engine the new car is fitted with a 1.4-litre version, turbocharged for the first time. While increased by only a couple of horsepower to 140hp, torque jumps 70Nm to 230Nm. Suzuki is not yet quoting acceleration figures but they are expected to be significantly improved over the outgoing Swift Sport.
Stiffer chassis
The new car uses the latest ‘Heartect’ platform that debuted with the mainstream Swift. Alongside the weight saving, rigidity is improved helped by a continuous frame layout, while spot welding of the body is also increased to further add rigidity for both handling and refinement gains.
Visually the new Swift Sport gains a bespoke grille and bumper, a front lip spoiler, side skirts, a rear diffuser and a roof spoiler. Dual exhausts and 17-inch bespoke polished alloy wheels complete the exterior specification, while the interior gains a number of performance-oritentated touches including semi bucket seats.
The new Swift Sport is expected on sale in mid 2018 and chief engineer Masao Kobori expects it to be popular with hot hatch enthusiasts. “We know that our customers value a dynamic driving experience above everything else,” he says. “So we’ve made the new Swift Sport lighter, faster and more stimulating in every way.”
Keyword: Frankfurt – Suzuki Swift Sport is potent lightweight