Maruti Suzuki, the undisputed leader in the Indian automotive market, has officially taken the wraps off the highly anticipated fourth-generation Swift hatchback. The new 2024 Swift promises to build upon the model’s iconic status while introducing a host of upgrades to keep it relevant in the rapidly evolving hatchback segment.
Design: Evolutionary Yet Distinctive
The new Swift retains the model’s distinctive silhouette but features a refreshed exterior design. The front end sees a reworked grille, angular headlights with integrated LED daytime running lights, and a redesigned bumper. Along the sides, the Swift sports newly designed dual-tone alloy wheels and blacked-out elements like the ORVMs and pillars, lending it a sportier appearance.
At the rear, the updates include a redesigned tailgate, a new bumper with a skid plate, and LED taillights with distinctive C-shaped DRLs. While the global-spec model showcases these changes, the India-specific version might feature some minor tweaks to the bumpers and other elements to suit local preferences.
Interior and Features: A Significant Upgrade
Step inside the new Swift, and you’ll be greeted by a thoroughly modernized cabin. Taking inspiration from Maruti Suzuki’s premium offerings like the Baleno and Fronx, the 2024 Swift boasts a larger 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.
The dashboard layout has been refreshed, and the climate control switchgear has also been updated, giving the interior a more premium feel. Maruti Suzuki has also equipped the new Swift with a host of convenience and safety features, including a 360-degree camera, blind spot detection, and a head-up display – features that were previously reserved for the brand’s higher-end models.
Safety: Raising the Bar
In a move to enhance the Swift’s safety credentials, Maruti Suzuki has equipped the new model with six airbags as standard across the entire range, a significant upgrade over the outgoing model’s dual front airbags. Additionally, all seats now feature 3-point seatbelts, ensuring a safer driving experience for all occupants.
The global-spec Swift also boasts advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like lane keeping assist, blind spot monitor, and adaptive cruise control. However, it remains to be seen if the India-spec model will receive the full ADAS suite, as the inclusion of these features could impact the pricing and positioning of the hatchback.
Powertrain and Efficiency: Refined and Frugal
Under the hood, the new Swift is expected to be powered by Suzuki’s latest 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z – Z-Series naturally aspirated petrol engine. This engine is likely to feature mild-hybrid technology, which should result in improved fuel efficiency.
Maruti Suzuki claims that the manual variant of the new Swift will deliver a fuel efficiency of 24.8 km/l, while the automated manual transmission (AMT) version will offer 24.75 km/l. This represents a 10% improvement in fuel efficiency for the manual model and a 14% increase for the AMT variant compared to the outgoing Swift.
Customers will have the option to choose between a 5-speed manual transmission and an AMT unit, providing them with the flexibility to select their preferred driving experience.
Pricing and Positioning
Maruti Suzuki has priced the new Swift at an introductory price of 6.49 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a compelling offering in the hatchback segment. The company has also announced a subscription model, where customers can avail of the new Swift at 17,436 per month, which includes vehicle registration, maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance.
The 2024 Swift will primarily compete with micro-SUVs like the Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter, which are priced between 6.13 lakh and 10.28 lakh (ex-showroom). However, Swift’s blend of style, performance, and affordability is expected to make it a strong contender in the hatchback space.
Legacy and Sales performance
The Maruti Suzuki has been a consistent best-seller in the Indian market, with over 6.5 million units sold worldwide in 169 countries over the past two decades. The hatchback’s popularity can be attributed to its value-for-money proposition, sporty driving dynamics, and the brand’s extensive service network.
Conclusion
The all-new Maruti Swift 2024 is a testament to the brand’s commitment to evolving its iconic hatchback to meet the changing needs and expectations of Indian consumers. With a refreshed design, a host of modern features, enhanced safety, and improved efficiency, the new Swift is poised to continue its legacy as a beloved and practical choice in the crowded hatchback market.
As Maruti Suzuki gears up to launch the new Swift in the coming months, enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike eagerly await the opportunity to experience the latest iteration of this beloved hatchback.