The iconic Maruti Suzuki Swift is gearing up for its fourth generation and is all set to hit the Indian roads on May 9, 2024. While fans eagerly await its arrival, exciting details about the upcoming hatchback are starting to emerge. Here’s what we know so far, with a particular focus on the significant safety upgrades Maruti Suzuki is bringing to the table.
Standard Six Airbags for Enhanced Safety
One of the most noteworthy changes in the new Swift is the inclusion of six airbags as standard across all variants. This marks a significant improvement over the outgoing model and demonstrates Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to passenger safety. Six airbags provide crucial protection for occupants in the event of a collision, potentially mitigating injuries and saving lives.
This upgrade aligns with the growing emphasis on safety in the Indian car market. With stricter regulations and a more safety-conscious consumer base, automakers are prioritizing features that enhance occupant protection. The new Swift’s standard six airbags will undoubtedly be a welcome addition for safety-minded buyers.
Unveiling the Mystery: Will the New Swift Get a Stronger Body Structure?
While official details haven’t been confirmed yet, there’s a good chance that Maruti Suzuki has also improved the structural integrity of the new Swift. A stronger body structure plays a vital role in occupant safety by absorbing impact energy and minimizing cabin deformation during a collision.
Here’s hoping Maruti Suzuki has addressed any shortcomings in the previous model’s structure to create a more robust and secure car for Indian customers. Additionally, the recent 4-star safety rating awarded to the Japan-spec Swift in the Japan NCAP crash tests is a promising sign.
Important Note: It’s crucial to remember that the Japan-spec Swift features advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that likely won’t be offered on the Indian version. While the absence of ADAS might be a slight disappointment, the inclusion of six airbags as standard is a significant step forward for safety in the Indian Swift.
Additional Safety Features Expected in the New Swift
Maruti Suzuki is likely to equip the new Swift with additional safety features beyond the standard six airbags. Here’s a breakdown of some of the expected safety tech:
- Electronic Stability Programme (ESP): This system helps maintain vehicle stability during critical maneuvers, especially when cornering or on slippery surfaces. By preventing skids and loss of control, ESP can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
- Reversing Camera: This essential feature provides a clear view behind the vehicle while reversing, making parking maneuvers safer and easier.
- Potential for Advanced Features: There’s a possibility that Maruti Suzuki might offer a 360-degree camera and blind-spot detection on higher-end variants. These features further enhance driver visibility and awareness of surrounding vehicles, minimizing the risk of collisions.
A New Engine Under the Hood
The 2024 Swift will ditch the long-running 1.2-litre 4-cylinder K series petrol engine and embrace a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z series petrol engine. This new engine is expected to generate 82 PS of power and up to 112 Nm of torque. Transmission options will likely include a 5-speed manual transmission (MT) and a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).
While the official fuel efficiency figures haven’t been revealed yet, the new engine is expected to deliver improved mileage compared to the outgoing model. Additionally, a CNG powertrain option might be introduced at a later stage, catering to a wider range of customer preferences.
Competitive Price Point and Market Rivals
Maruti Suzuki is known for its aggressive pricing strategy, and the new Swift is expected to follow suit. We anticipate the starting price to be around Rs 6.5 lakh (ex-showroom). This price tag will position the Swift competitively within the hatchback segment.
The new Swift will face stiff competition from established rivals like the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios. However, it will also be an attractive alternative to other popular options such as the Renault Triber, Tata Punch, and Hyundai Aura.
FAQs
Q: What is the most significant safety upgrade in the new Maruti Swift?
A: The inclusion of six airbags as standard across all variants is the most noteworthy safety upgrade in the new Swift. This provides enhanced occupant protection in the event of a collision.
Q: Will the new Swift have a stronger body structure?
A: While official confirmation is pending, there’s a strong possibility that Maruti Suzuki has improved the structural integrity of the new Swift for better crashworthiness.
Q: What additional safety features are expected in the new Swift?
A: The new Swift is likely to come equipped with features like Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), a reversing camera, and potentially a 360-degree camera and blind-spot detection on higher variants.
Q: What engine will power the new Swift?
A: The 2024 Swift will sport a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder Z series petrol engine, replacing the outgoing 1.2-litre 4-cylinder K series engine. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT.
Q: What is the expected price of the new Maruti Swift?
A: We anticipate the starting price of the new Swift to be around Rs 6.5 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a competitive offering in the hatchback segment.
