A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.6
Comfort & Interior
3.8
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
3.9
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a small hot hatch that delivers genuine thrills without breaking the bank? The Suzuki Swift Sport might be exactly what you’re after. This lightweight performance hatchback has built a loyal following among driving enthusiasts who value engagement over outright power. Unlike some rivals that prioritise comfort, the Swift Sport focuses purely on the driving experience.
The current generation Swift Sport offers something increasingly rare in today’s market. While many hot hatches have grown larger and more expensive, Suzuki has kept things simple and focused. The naturally aspirated engine and manual gearbox combination feels refreshingly honest compared to turbocharged alternatives. This approach sets it apart from rivals like the Ford Fiesta ST or Volkswagen Polo GTI, which take a more sophisticated route.
What makes the Swift Sport appealing is its back to basics philosophy. You get genuine driving enjoyment without the complexity or running costs of more powerful alternatives. The lightweight construction means every horsepower counts, creating a car that feels faster than its specifications suggest. Whether you’re navigating country roads or tackling your daily commute, the Swift Sport brings a smile to your face in ways that many modern hot hatches simply can’t match.
What's the Suzuki Swift Sport Like to Drive?
The heart of the Swift Sport is its 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 140 horsepower. That might not sound like much, but in a car weighing just over 970kg, it delivers genuine pace. The 0-60mph sprint takes 8.1 seconds, with strong mid-range punch that makes overtaking effortless. Unlike some turbocharged engines, this unit responds immediately to throttle inputs without lag.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.4L 4-cylinder turbo TFSI
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Power Output
140 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.1 seconds
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MPG Combined
42-45 mpg
- Boot Space
- 265 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Suzuki Swift Sport: Comfort & Features
Step inside and the Swift Sport reveals its sporting intentions. The front seats feature prominent side bolsters that hold you firmly in place during cornering. The materials aren’t premium, but everything feels solidly built and fit for purpose. The dashboard layout is straightforward and driver focused, with all controls falling easily to hand. The touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
The Suzuki Swift Sport is a spirited hot hatch that thrives on engagement, offering brisk performance in a lightweight package. Its 1.4-litre turbo engine delivers sharp throttle response and agile handling, making it a joy for drivers who prioritise dynamics over comfort. While the interior feels basic and practicality is modest, its value-for-money appeal and refined driving character make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking thrills without compromise.
Is the Suzuki Swift Sport Expensive to Run?
The Swift Sport delivers impressive running costs for a performance car. Real world fuel economy sits around 38-42 mpg, depending on how enthusiastically you drive. The efficient turbo engine means reasonable fuel bills, while insurance groups are moderate for the performance on offer. Service intervals are reasonable, and Suzuki’s reputation for reliability helps keep maintenance costs predictable.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Suzuki Swift Sport
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Ford Fiesta ST
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Volkswagen Polo GTI
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £20,500 | £22,500 | £24,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.4L Turbo 140hp | 1.5L Turbo 200hp | 2.0L Turbo 200hp |
| Power | 140 bhp | 200 bhp | 200 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.1 seconds | 6.5 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 42 mpg | 40 mpg | 38 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 265 litres | 292 litres | 351 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Lightweight chassis, Precise handling, Great value | Powerful engine, Sport modes, Track ready | Premium interior, Advanced tech, Refined ride |
Suzuki Swift Sport Practicality & Boot Space
Don’t expect family car levels of space, but the Swift Sport offers decent practicality for its size. The 265-litre boot swallows a weekly shop or weekend bags without trouble. The rear seats fold flat to expand cargo space when needed. Around town, the compact dimensions make parking simple, while the light steering reduces effort at low speeds.
Absolutely love this car. It’s so much fun to drive and puts a smile on my face every time. The handling is incredible and it feels so nimble. Sure, it’s not the fastest, but it’s definitely the most engaging car I’ve owned.
The Suzuki Swift Sport stands out in the hot hatch market by prioritising driving purity over raw power. Its lightweight construction, precise handling, and responsive engine create an engaging experience that rivals often can’t match. While it may not have the biggest boot or the most powerful engine, it excels in delivering maximum driving enjoyment at an affordable price.
