The term iconic gets thrown around a lot in marketing, but when it comes to the Maruti Suzuki Swift, it’s a well-earned title. This hatchback has won the hearts of millions, not just through its incredible sales figures—with nearly 3 million units sold—but through its design, driving feel, and aspirational value.

Now in its fourth generation, the Swift has undergone some major changes. But has Maruti managed to retain the essence of what made this car so special? Let’s find out.

Maruti Swift Design & Dimensions: Does It Still Look Like a Swift?

The hallmark of an iconic car is instant recognition, and the new Swift succeeds in this regard.

Key Design Highlights:

• Retains the narrow-top, wide-bottom stance that has always defined the Swift.
• A new gloss-black grille with a more prominent Suzuki badge now placed on the bonnet.
• L-shaped LED DRLs, giving a sporty and premium look.
• Clamshell bonnet design, though some might find the panel gaps distracting.
• The rear door handle is now conventionally placed on the door, unlike the previous model where it was integrated into the C-pillar.
• 15-inch alloy wheels, though a 16-inch option would have enhanced its sporty appeal.

The rear design is the least exciting aspect, with a fairly standard tail-lamp layout. However, the 265L boot space is practical enough for a hatchback, making weekend trips convenient.

Maruti Swift Interior & Features: More Modern, but Still Familiar

Inside, the new Swift strikes a balance between nostalgia and modernity.

What Works:

✅ Retains the familiar upright driving position and large glass area for great visibility. ✅ The steering wheel gets a glossy black finish, adding a premium touch. ✅ Analog dials remain, with sporty needles that enhance the aesthetic. ✅ Improved plastic quality and fit & finish compared to the previous generation. ✅ 9-inch SmartPlay Pro touchscreenwith Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. ✅ Automatic LED headlamps, wireless charging, cruise control, and rear AC vents.

What Could Have Been Better:

❌ The dashboard design is predominantly grey and lacks vibrancy—a missed opportunity for a more youthful appeal. ❌ Storage is limited: the glovebox is small, and door pockets are average in size. ❌ The infotainment screen placement is quite high, creating unnecessary dashboard bulk. ❌ No rear armrest or center cup holders.

Additionally, Hyundai Venue is also an alternative option

Maruti Swift Rear Seat Comfort: A Mixed Bag

While the knee room and headroom remain adequate, rear-seat comfort is not significantly improved from the previous Swift.

• The flat bench lacks good thigh support.
• The rear quarter glass improves airiness compared to the previous model.
• No center headrest, but all three passengers now get three-point seatbelts.
• AC vents and USB A + USB C ports are a welcome addition.

Maruti Swift Safety: A Step Forward?

Maruti has improved safety features, with the new Swift offering:

• 6 airbags (standard across variants)
• ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
• Hill-hold assist
• 3-point seatbelts for all seats

However, the previous Swift scored just one star in Global NCAP crash tests. While the Japan NCAP test gave the new model 4 stars, we await India-specific results to confirm its safety credentials.

Engine & Performance: The Big Change

The biggest talking point is the new Z2E engine:

• 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol (82hp, 112Nm torque)
• Replaces the previous 4-cylinder K-series engines
• Fuel economy: 25.75 km/l (AMT) | 24.80 km/l (Manual)
• Features Auto Start-Stop, but no mild-hybrid system

How Does It Drive?

Refinement: Surprisingly good for a 3-cylinder engine—not as smooth as the old 4-cylinder, but much improved.

Low-end torque: A welcome addition, making city driving easier. However, the redline is now lower (6,000 RPM), and power tapers off around 5,500 RPM.

Manual vs AMT: Which One Should You Get?

The 5-speed manual is the clear winner, with a slick gear shift action and a hydraulically actuated clutch that’s smooth and progressive.

The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) has improved, but still lags between shifts, especially when pushing hard. A CVT or torque converter would have been a better choice for a car as sporty as the Swift.

Ride & Handling: Closer to Its Sporty Roots

Maruti has stiffened the rear suspension, improving handling without compromising ride quality too much.

• Better body control than the previous Swift.
• Steering feel has improved, now offering more weight and better return-to-center action.
• Highway stability is better, thanks to a revised front stabilizer bar.

While it’s not as sharp as the first-gen Swift, it’s definitely a step in the right direction.

Maruti Swift Price & Verdict: Does It Still Make Sense?

Price Range: ₹6.49 lakh – ₹9.50 lakh (ex-showroom)

This pricing makes it more expensive than the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and puts it very close to Maruti’s own Baleno.

Pros & Cons

✅ Still retains the Swift identity—design, driving feel, and aspirational value. ✅ More fuel-efficient, with an improved 3-cylinder engine. ✅ Better ride, handling, and steering feel. ✅ More safety features, including 6 airbags. ✅ Modern tech additions, such as a 9-inch infotainment screen and rear AC vents.

❌ More expensive than before, nearing the Baleno’s price range. ❌ AMT still doesn’t match the sporty character of the Swift. ❌ Cabin design is uninspiring, with excessive use of grey plastics. ❌ No major increase in rear-seat comfort or boot space.

Final Verdict: Is It Still Iconic?

Yes! The 2024 Maruti Suzuki Swift may have changed under the hood, but it still delivers on its fun-to-drive natureand strong design identity. While the AMT isn’t ideal, the manual version brings out the best in the new engine. And with a more planted ride and improved safety, it remains a top choice in the hatchback segment.

If you’ve always loved the Swift for its sporty feel, you’ll still love this one—just make sure to get the manual transmission!

FAQs

What do you think of the new Swift? Let us know in the comments!

Author- Ayush