Among a plethora of petrol/electric powertrains – pure electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid – allied to automobiles, Suzuki has taken a different flight path with ‘hybrid lite’, an integrated starter generator for its fifth generation Swift.
Unlike in some other EVs, where the electric motor can drive the wheels independently, the ISG in the top-selling compact swings into action to give the internal combustion engine extra shove when the accelerator is pressed.
Taking power from a lithium-ion battery recharged when the brakes are applied, the ISG also kicks in under hard acceleration to cut the demand on the fuel supply. The petrol engine, too, has been replaced by a new unit delivering increased low-speed torque (up at 3000rpm by 10 per cent).
The new Swift comes in four variants, featuring either a five-speed manual transmission or CVT. Prices start at $24,490 for the entry-level manual, with the CVT adding $1000. Top-rated GLX, the test vehicle, is $27,990.
Suzukis in Queensland are distributed by a stand-alone state entity. General manager Paul Dillon says: “The driving force behind the new hybrid system is directed towards a reduction in emission and improvements in fuel economy.
“We will be introducing the Suzuki hybrid energy system across all other models as they move through their development and production cycles.’
All Swift Hybrids are covered by a five-year warranty, which also takes in the lithium-ion battery. Suzuki considers major rivals to include MG3, Mazda 2 and Yaris across all age brackets, probably with those looking for a little more room as in the new Swift.
STYLING
Looks are generally within the small-car playbook, the latest model sporting 16-inch machined alloy wheels, a new-style piano black grille and L-shaped lights that merge into flowing body lines. Side under, back door and roof spoilers are standard.
The Swift Hybrid is stocked in pure pearl white but has the option of being ordered in the colours of the Hybrid Plus and GLX. These include premium silver metallic, flame orange pearl metallic and a two-tone with blue pearl metallic with black pearl roof.
INTERIOR
The Swift Hybrid maintains the wheelbase, width and height of its predecessor, but gains 15mm in length and more cargo space – 265 litres with the rear seat backs upright, 589 litres with them folded – through the push-back of the rear hatch. However, rear seat leg room is left wanting.
Inside, the black and grey colour scheme pulls together all elements of the driver’s controls. Front seats have been reshaped and carry a new design of panelling.
INFOTAINMENT
A 9-inch infotainment display sits atop the central dashboard offering USB and wi-fi connections, featuring satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB+ audio.
Also displayed are vehicle performance data, including fuel level, cruising range, warnings and rear-view camera vision. Other features include steering-wheel-mounted audio and phone controls, trip computer, keyless start, leaving headlight function, privacy glass on rear windows, traffic sign recognition; Type A and C USB ports on the Swift Hybrid Plus and GLX; high beam assist and LED daytime running lights.
ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
Despite the new engine being the same capacity as the previous motor, it delivers 10 per cent more torque at a low 3000rpm. Peak power is almost on equal terms.
When the Swift pulls up at an intersection or traffic lights the ICE automatically shuts down, saving fuel, while the lithium-ion battery continues to power electrical components. The ISG functions as a starter motor after automatic stops and further supplements power for up to 30 seconds.
The system checks charges of the lithium-ion and lead acid batteries automatically and chips in to charge either when needed. The ISG also uses kinetic energy of deceleration to generate electrical charging of both batteries. Brake pedal depression is monitored to maximise the level of regeneration.
SAFETY
While no ANCAP safety score is forthcoming, the new Swift Hybrid incorporates active and passive safety systems, stamping the fifth generation as the safest on record.
These come within Suzuki’s Heartect platform which leads compact car design in dispersing impact energy in a crash.
An active safety ‘squad’ made up of lane keep assist, lane departure assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitors, traffic sign recognition and more. This is on top of the ubiquitous electronic stability system, anti-lock brakes and brakeforce distribution.
Airbags include front dual, front side and curtain.
DRIVING
There is manual adjustment in flattish seats with height movement for the driver, and heating for both front seats. Tilt-and-reach steering wheel adjustment make for a comfortable driving position.
Unfortunately, a front-centre armrest has been … well, rested, with small cupholders now in the centre.
Needless to say, with a three-cylinder engine of 1197cc (60.8kW at 5700rpm) overtaking with the test vehicle was restrained but the low-down pulling power (111.8Nm at 4500rpm) plus the benefit of the ISG, had the CVT automatic transmission making reasonable time off the mark. Nothing outstanding.
While the underbody now incorporates for the first time sound deadening material designed to minimise engine, transmission and road vibration in the passenger cabin there is still some intrusion when the Swift is wound up.
Fuel consumption is claimed by Suzuki to be 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle. On the week of testing the best obtained from the Swift Hybrid GLX was 3.5 litres per hundred kilometres.
SUMMARY
Congested city streets and narrow country roads are the natural environment of the Swift Hybrid GLX. Add to this the less-than $30k price tag and fulsome fuel economy and the Suzuki compact should continue on its winning ways with buyers.
RATINGS
Looks – 8
Performance – 5
Safety – 6
Thirst – 8
Practicality – 7
Comfort – 5
Tech – 7
Value – 8
AT A GLANCE
MODEL LINE-UP
Swift Hybrid 5sp manual $24,490
Swift Hybrid CVT $25,490
Swift Hybrid Plus $26,990
Swift Hybrid GLX $27,990
Note: These prices do not include government of dealer delivery charges. Contact your Suzuki local dealer for drive-away prices.
SPECIFICATIONS (Suzuki Hybrid 1.2-litre 3-cyl petrol, ISG, CVT, FWD)
ENGINE
Capacity: 1197cc
Configuration: three cylinders inline
Maximum power 60.8kW @ 5700rpm
Maximum torque: 111.8Nm @ 4500rpm
Fuel type: Petrol 95 RON
Combined fuel cycle: (ADR 81/02) 4.0 L/100km
CO2 emissions: 90g/km
ELECTRIC MOTOR:
Power: 2.3kW
Torque: 60Nm
Battery: Lithium-ion
DRIVELINE: 1.2L 3-cyl, CVT, front-wheel drive
DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT, AND CAPACITIES
Length: 3860mm
Width: 1735mm
Height:1495mm
Wheelbase: 2450mm:
Turning circle: 9.6m
Kerb weight: 957kg
Fuel tank: 37 litres
BRAKES
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Drum
STANDARD WARRANTY
Five years / unlimited kilometres
