Hotter hatch: Suzuki Philippines launches more affordable Swift 1.2

MANILA, Philippines - The sub-compact hatchback segment just got more interesting as Suzuki Philippines, Inc., the only integrated motorcycle and automobile company in the country launched a new variant of its popular and well-loved Swift. The new Swift 1.2 continues to have the same sporty style and zippy drive but now with even better fuel efficiency and lower emissions thanks to its new powertrain.

Underneath the shapely and curvaceous European inspired body lies the well-renowned K12M engine. Equipped with variable valve timing (VVT) and a displacement of 1.2-liters, the new Swift 1.2 generates a maximum power of 87 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 114 N at 4,000 rpm. This 4-cylinder engine (most of its similarly-priced rivals only have three cylinders) boasts of longer service intervals and spark plug life. This engine is mated to a choice between a sporty five-speed manual and a smooth shifting four-speed automatic. This peppy drivetrain transfers all that power through a well-tuned suspension package with independent MacPherson Struts in front and a Torsion Beam Axle with coil springs at the back. At each corner, the Swift 1.2 has stylish five-spoke turbine style 15-inch alloy wheels equipped with 185/65R15 tires.

Priced competitively (P 608,000 for the M/T and P 648,000 for the A/T), the Swift 1.2 is one fully loaded hot hatch. The Swift 1.2 carries the same stylish DNA that owners have come to love and associate with Suzuki’s sporty hatchback. The vertically-arranged headlights and taillights, the mesh grille, and the “floating” roof are all present. And unlike some of its competition, the Swift 1.2 features a fully-painted body (no black plastic parts here) as well as front fog lamps and even a bee-sting style antenna. The Swift 1.2 even gets side mirror turn signal repeaters, something the 1.4 doesn’t get. In fact, aside from the smaller rims (15s versus 16s), the only thing different aesthetically with the Swift 1.2 is the higher ground clearance (170 mm versus 140 mm).

Just as fully-loaded as the Swift 1.2 is on the outside, it’s equally feature-packed inside. The sporty all-black cabin is ergonomic thanks to the waterfall design. The tilt-adjustable three-spoke steering wheel, 4-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, and height-adjustable seatbelts ensure a comfortable driving experience. The instrument panel features a large tachometer and speedometer for legibility while sandwiched in-between is a multi-information display that shows functions such as mileage and range. The integrated audio system features a full range of inputs including USB. The sound is outputted through a six speaker system (four + two tweeters) while steering wheel integrated audio controls add more convenience.

Larger than any of its similarly priced sub-B segment rivals, the Swift 1.2 is squarely a B-segment hatchback. It’s roomy and comfortable with a generous 2,430-mm wheelbase. The rear passengers don’t feel shortchanged at all with individual headrests for all and the contoured seat cushions for optimal hip and back support. In terms of luggage carrying capacity, the Swift 1.2 has a 210-liter capacity with the seats raised; when folded, this number grows to 533 liters. And to keep valuables out of view from prying eyes, a luggage cover is standard equipment. The affordable price doesn’t necessarily equate to being shortchanged in terms of safety as well. The Swift 1.2 comes with dual SRS airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Built at Suzuki’s Manesar Manufacturing Plant in India, the Swift 1.2 is available in six colors, one of which is a limited edition launch color. Blazing Red, Glistening Gray, Silky Silver, Pearl Artic White, and Midnight Black form the standard palette while the sporty Torque Blue is available in limited quantities.

“We are introducing the Swift 1.2 to the Philippine to make the well-loved Suzuki Swift available to a wider audience. At Suzuki, we are continuously innovating to make our products responsive to the needs of the markets where we operate. This new variant will offer the same great value and best in class performance of the Suzuki Swift in a much more affordable package,” shares Suzuki Philippines president Hiroshi Suzuki.

The Suzuki Swift 1.2 is now available for reservations at all Suzuki dealerships nationwide with deliveries starting in July. And to celebrate the Swift 1.2’s arrival, Suzuki Philippines is slashing the price of the Swift 1.2 by P 25,000 for all reservations made until June 30.