Gear up, hatchback enthusiasts! The much-anticipated fourth-generation Maruti Suzuki Swift is inching closer to its Indian debut. Having already made waves in its home market of Japan and gearing up for a UK launch in April 2024, Suzuki has unveiled the detailed specifications of the UK-spec Swift, offering valuable insights into what Indian buyers can expect. Let’s delve deeper into the details of the new Swift and explore what this exciting upgrade might bring to the Indian roads.
Dimension Tweaks: A Slightly Different Swift for India?
The UK-spec Swift boasts a slightly revised size compared to the current Indian model. Here’s a breakdown of the dimensional differences:
Length: The UK Swift gains a marginal 15 mm in length, measuring in at 3860 mm compared to the current Indian model’s 3845 mm.
Width: No changes here. Both the UK and Indian models retain the same width of 1735 mm.
Height: The UK model sits slightly lower than its Indian counterpart. The UK Swift comes in at 1495 mm (2WD) and 1520 mm (AWD), whereas the current Indian model measures 1530 mm. This translates to a height reduction of 35 mm for the 2WD variant and 10 mm for the AWD variant (if offered in India).
Wheelbase: The wheelbase remains identical for both models at 2450 mm.
These dimensional changes are relatively minor and might not significantly impact the overall driving experience or cabin space. However, the lower height on the UK model could potentially suggest a sportier stance compared to the current Indian version.
Powertrain Options: Familiar Yet Potentially Improved
The UK-spec Swift gets its power from the new 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder K12C DualJet (Z series) petrol engine, already seen in the Japan-spec model. This engine promises a slightly higher torque output compared to the Japanese version, though the exact power figures haven’t been revealed for the UK market yet.
Here’s what Indian buyers can expect:
Engine Continuity: The new Swift is likely to retain the familiar 1.2-liter K12N DualJet petrol engine that powers the current Indian model. However, there’s a possibility that Maruti Suzuki might introduce the new K12C engine for improved performance and potential fuel efficiency gains.
Transmission Options: Both manual and CVT automatic gearbox options are likely to be carried over from the current model.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD): While the UK market gets the option of AWD, the India-spec Swift is expected to remain a front-wheel-drive (FWD) only offering.
Feature Fiesta: A Look at the Potential Tech Upgrades
The new Swift boasts a significant upgrade in features compared to the outgoing model. Here’s a glimpse of what the UK-spec Swift offers, with insights into what Indian buyers might get:
Infotainment Centerpiece: A modern 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system is likely to replace the current model’s smaller unit, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience.
Convenience and Comfort: Features like automatic climate control, 16-inch alloy wheels, and electrically adjustable ORVMs could add a touch of luxury and convenience to the new Swift.
Safety Focus: The UK-spec Swift comes loaded with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. While the full ADAS suite might not make it to the Indian version due to cost considerations, essential safety features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors are expected to be standard. Additionally, a reversing camera could be offered on higher trims.
Connected Car Tech: The new Swift is likely to embrace connected car technology, allowing remote access to certain vehicle functions and features.
While the exact feature list for the India-spec Swift remains unconfirmed, Maruti Suzuki is likely to incorporate many of the features mentioned above to keep the new Swift competitive in the Indian market.
Expected Launch and Price: A Compelling Hatchback on the Horizon?
The 2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift is anticipated to launch in India by April 2024. Pricing is expected to start from around Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom), potentially witnessing a slight increase compared to the current model. This price increase could be justified by the inclusion of new features and potential improvements in performance and fuel efficiency.
FAQs
Q: When will the new Maruti Suzuki Swift launch in India?
A: The expected launch timeframe for the new Swift in India is April 2024.
Q: Will the dimensions of the new Swift differ from the current Indian model?
A: The UK-spec Swift is slightly longer (by 15 mm) and marginally shorter (by up to 35 mm) compared to the current Indian model. However, the width and wheelbase are expected to remain identical.
Q: Which engine will power the new Swift in India?
A: There’s a strong possibility that Maruti Suzuki might retain the familiar 1.2-liter K12N DualJet petrol engine for the India-spec Swift. However, there’s an outside chance of them introducing the new K12C engine from the UK model for potential performance and fuel efficiency improvements.
Q: Will the new Swift offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option in India?
A: Unlike the UK market, the India-spec Swift is likely to remain a front-wheel-drive (FWD) only offering.
Q: What new features can we expect in the new Swift?
A: The India-spec Swift is expected to receive a significant feature upgrade. This could include a larger 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, 16-inch alloy wheels, and electrically adjustable ORVMs. Safety features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and potentially a reversing camera are also likely. While the full ADAS suite from the UK model might be absent, some essential driver-assistance features could be offered.
Q: How much will the new Swift cost?
A: The new Swift’s starting price is expected to be around Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom), which could be slightly higher than the current model’s price tag. This increase could be attributed to the inclusion of new features and potential improvements in the car.
