Buying a used Suzuki Swift

Swift by name and nature, Suzuki’s little hatchback has been loved by both first time and experienced drivers for many years. Nimble, economical and good fun to drive, the Suzuki Swift makes everyday journeys on the road interesting with its modern looks and cost-effective performance. Find out all about these models and how to find the right one with SPOTiCAR.  

What models are available?  

The first modern Suzuki Swift models were first launched globally in 2004 and have since captured many drivers’ attention with their cute, cool looks and exciting driving style. Though they might not be the most spacious and practical hatchback option, they're a great option for those who want a small, fun car that’s suitable to drive everyday.  

With the two most recent generations (2010-2016 and 2017 onwards) now available on the used market, there are a range of petrol, diesel and mild hybrid (MHEV) engine versions to choose from: 

• 1.2L petrol: the standard engine offering, it comes with manual and automatic transmission and two or four-wheel-drive and has a fuel economy of 56.5mpg.  

• 1.2L Dualjet: a newer engine that’s available in models made from 2015 onwards, it drops a few horsepower in exchange for a fuel economy of 65.7mpg.  

• 1.6L petrol: available only with the Sport trim level, this engine is designed for performance, with 136bhp and a top speed of 121mph.  

• 1.3L DDiS: available in earlier models and in the top level trims, this diesel engine has a great fuel economy of 67.3mpg. 

• 1.2L Dualjet Hybrid 4x4: equipped with regenerative braking, this mild hybrid is available with the higher trim levels.  

• 1.0L Boosterjet: a turbocharged option that’s available in later models, there are also hybrid and sport versions to suit a range of driver needs without sacrificing any performance.  

There are also three trim options available in this range:  

• SZ2: the standard option for earlier models, it has basic trims such as electric windows, remote central locking and safety technologies such as tyre pressure monitoring.  

• SZ3: air-con, 16-inch alloys and Bluetooth connectivity are the main upgrades in this trim level.  

• SZ4: this upgrade sees a significant jump in kit, including DAB radio, cruise control, sat nav and keyless entry.  

• SZ-L: a limited edition trim model, it’s only available with the 1.2L engine and has much of the SZ3 level’s technology.  

• SZ-T: a trim level for later models, it has a 7-inch dashboard, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a reversing camera.  

• SZ5: available in four-wheel drive, this trim level offers extra technologies such as adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.  

• Sport: the top of the range trim level, this comes with the most powerful engines and the most stylish looks, with 17-inch alloys, sports seats and exhaust and enhanced brakes and suspension.  

Which Suzuki Swift should you choose? 

Firmly placed in the supermini small car class, the Swift is great for both city driving and having fun out on country roads. It also means that, in comparison to other hatchbacks, the Swift isn’t quite as practical, with slightly less boot space and higher insurance costs, particularly for younger drivers. Yet the Swift still has four seats that are suitable for adults, enough room to fit in the weekly shop and good fuel efficiency, making it a good starter car or daily drive for small families.  

Indeed, if you’re looking for a family-friendly option, then the 1.2L Dualjet in trim models of SZ4 or higher are recommended for both performance and comfort. If it’s all-out driving fun you’re looking for, then the Swift Sport has got to be top of your list, though it might be expensive for young drivers to insure.  

What should you look out for in a used Suzuki Swift? 

As well as being cost-effective to run and fun to drive, the Suzuki Swift has been rated highly in many reliability surveys. Yet, as with any used car, it’s important to keep your eyes and ears out for a few problems as you check a vehicle’s history or take it out on a test drive:  

• Rattling in the dashboard caused by loose clips or trim, including in the electric windows.  

• Juddering or slipping of the clutch, particularly in the cold weather.  

• Stiffness in the gearbox which causes problems in moving up or down gears.  

• Handbrake failure due to inaccurate brake calibration.  

• Problems with the ride quality or noises coming from the suspension.  

SPOTiCAR part-exchange programme 

To find out more about how to part-exchange your Suzuki Swift or upgrade to one in return for trading in your old car, then enter your registration number into our free online vehicle valuation tool. This will give you an estimated price for your car which, if you’re happy with it, you can then make an appointment with one of our retailers, who can also give you finance options for your Suzuki Swift.  Use our find a retailer tool to see which one is closest and you could soon be on your way to a vehicle upgrade.