Image: Suzuki
Image: Suzuki
Image: Suzuki
NewsBy: Ryan De Villiers
Suzuki, like most, has its sights set on the future of mobility. As such, the Japanese firm displayed several concepts at the Japan Mobility show, one bearing a familiar resemblance to the outgoing Swift model.
Image: Suzuki
“The future is bright and filled with many exciting new cars”
A few weeks ago, we caught a glimpse of Suzuki’s Swift Concept ahead of the Japan Auto Show. Following this, the automaker has divulged more information on the new era derivative of the popular nameplate in South Africa. The current generation Swift arrived in 2016 and has undergone a minor update in 2020 to keep it relevant. The existing shape, which has thus been around for almost 8 years is expected to be replaced soon and the Swift Concept is a preview of exactly that.
Aside from alterations to its appearance, the concept proposes a model that is technologically more advanced than the current road-going model, such as a dual-sensor brake support system, adaptive high-beam lights, and a new driver-monitoring system, to name a few. Despite no official information regarding future powertrain configurations, Suzuki engineers intend to offer a new range of “high-efficiency” engines that will provide ample power and improved fuel consumption figures. Additionally, there’s a “Hybrid” badge on the front fender and cameras mounted at the bottom of the side mirrors.
Image: Suzuki
The interior has undergone significant changes, featuring a layout similar to the slightly larger Baleno. White plastic trim extends to the doors, giving it a modern appearance with an interesting texture. The free-standing infotainment display, likely a 9-inch unit, is surrounded by thick bezels and includes touch-sensitive shortcuts.Despite being called a concept, this model is essentially the production version that is scheduled to debut in 2024.
The company provided limited details about the powertrain, describing it as a “high-efficiency” engine with “low fuel consumption” paired with a CVT gearbox. However, those who examined the exhibits in Tokyo, including our colleagues at Paultan, noted the presence of a three-cylinder motor with a mild-hybrid system under the hood. This engine appears to be unrelated to the current 1.25-liter K12C unit, which has four cylinders. Alongside the electrified version, it’s anticipated that the new engine will be offered in an ICE-only variant, particularly for markets like India. Additionally, there have been rumors, as reported by Rushlane, about a “strong hybrid” version, which could find a place in the European market.
Judging from the looks of the concept, we expect an identical production-spec 2024 Suzuki Swift to be unveiled in Japan before the end of the year. Suzuki recently announced an update of the existing Swift Sport in Japan as a 2024My, which means that the hot hatch version of the new generation will likely arrive just in time for the 2025 MY.
Keyword: Suzuki Shows Swift Concept at Tokyo Motor Show as Mild Hybrid