Maruti Swift Review: If you’re fed up with the typical quiet and emotionless EV cruises and yearning for something that brings a pinch of excitement to your daily drive, the Maruti Suzuki Swift could be the perfect shot in the arm. Coupled with its sporty stance, chirpy dynamics, and quintessential Swift personality, this hatchback will remind you why petrol vehicles are still relevant—despite city driving being their biggest weakness.

Design and Interior

The revised Maruti Swift remains faithful to its heritage with its compact, upmarket hatchback look that’s sporty yet utilitarian. Although it has a small footprint, it’s roomy enough inside. The new model doesn’t significantly alter its looks, keeping that quintessential Swift appeal going. On the inside, though, penny-pinching becomes apparent in certain areas. The absence of an auto-dimming mirror, regular roof liner cloth, and a sole dim cabin lamp detracts from its premium intentions. There is no backlighting for switches and USB ports either, so they’re difficult to locate when it’s dark.

Features

  • LED headlamps for clearer night vision
  • 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • 6 airbags ensure safety across the variants
  • Smart MID display with Google Maps integration
  • Automatic variant gets AMT gearbox option
  • USB outlets and charging stations accessible
  • Manual and auto transmission available
  • Variants aplenty to fit pocket and requirement

Performance and Driving Experience

Jumping into the Swift after a succession of EVs is invigorating. It’s light, responsive, and great to drive. The new Z12 three-cylinder petrol engine has had divided opinion online, but in actual use, it performs commendably.

Though it lags a bit in low RPM, it comes alive in the mid-range and provides a spirited drive. Though not as smooth as the old K12 unit, its response to revving compensates. The chassis is firm and though the steering might have lost some edge, it still functions effectively in tight city traffic.

Mileage and Efficiency

  • Petrol fuel efficiency is 24.8 kpl to 25.75 kpl
  • City driving in real conditions gives up to 13 kpl
  • Low-rev focus on engine tuning
  • Perfect for regular city runs
  • Fuel-efficient design reduces long-term expenses

Price and Variants

The Swift retails between ₹7.39 lakh to ₹10.74 lakh, making it an affordable premium hatch in its class. It is available in several trims, such as the 1.2 Petrol LXI, VXI, and VXI (O). The price, although increased slightly, particularly with additional safety features, still undercuts several competitors in the same segment.

User Experience and Practicality

Flaws notwithstanding, the Swift is a team favorite and is regularly employed as a shoot car due to its size and convenience. It’s not only easy to drive and park but also low-maintenance in day-to-day life. It’s one of those cars you like driving for even the most mundane commutes, reminding us why small petrol hatchbacks remain relevant in the age of EVs.