The Suzuki Swift has long been a symbol of clever design, city-friendly size, and budget-minded practicality. In a market where small cars compete fiercely against compact SUVs and hybrid options, the Swift continues to hold its ground. The 2025 iteration keeps its winning formula: stylish looks, excellent fuel economy, and a fun-to-drive personality that few rivals can match.
This detailed review explores everything Australian buyers need to know—from pricing and trims to on-road performance, safety features, and everyday practicality.
Design and Styling: Compact Yet Confident
The Swift has always been a head-turner. Its compact proportions and rounded edges give it a youthful presence, while the floating roofline and sharp LED headlights add a sporty touch. The 2025 update subtly refines the look with smoother lines, a wider stance, and an improved aerodynamic profile that enhances fuel efficiency.
At just under four metres long, the Swift fits seamlessly into tight urban spaces while maintaining enough road presence to feel substantial. The front grille has been slightly re-sculpted, and the rear tail lamps now feature a more distinctive LED signature. It’s available in a variety of colours—from the classic Mineral Grey to the vibrant Burning Red Pearl—ensuring every buyer finds a style that suits their personality.
Cabin Comfort and Interior Features
Step inside, and you’ll find the Suzuki Swift’s cabin surprisingly well thought-out for its size. The interior design prioritises functionality and driver focus. The dashboard wraps neatly around the driver’s seat, with intuitive control placement and clear visibility all around.
Seating and Space
The Swift comfortably seats four adults, although taller passengers in the rear may find legroom slightly snug. The seats provide ample support for short and long commutes alike, with a decent driving position that gives a clear view of the road.
Despite its compact footprint, Suzuki has cleverly optimised interior space. The boot offers 265 litres of cargo capacity, which expands to over 900 litres when the rear seats are folded—enough for weekend trips or grocery runs.
Technology and Infotainment
All variants of the 2025 Suzuki Swift now include a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface is intuitive, with responsive touch controls and clear graphics. The higher trims add satellite navigation, voice control, and steering-mounted audio buttons for convenience.
A digital display within the instrument cluster offers driving data like fuel efficiency, trip range, and energy usage—especially handy for those keeping tabs on running costs.
Build Quality and Comfort Features
The materials inside are mostly hard plastics, but Suzuki has added soft-touch inserts and metallic accents to enhance perceived quality. Features like automatic climate control, keyless entry, and push-button start make the Swift feel more premium than its price tag suggests.
Noise insulation has also improved, with less engine and road noise intruding into the cabin—especially noticeable at highway speeds.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2025 Suzuki Swift offers two petrol engine options in Australia, catering to both budget-conscious buyers and those wanting a bit more punch.
1.2-Litre DualJet Engine
The base engine remains the 1.2-litre four-cylinder DualJet, producing around 66kW of power and 113Nm of torque. While not sporty, it’s lively enough for city driving and light highway use. The engine pairs with either a five-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission, both tuned for efficiency and ease of use.
The manual variant rewards drivers who enjoy more control, while the CVT delivers smooth acceleration and minimal fuel consumption.
Swift GLX Turbo (1.0-Litre Boosterjet)
For those craving extra zip, the Swift GLX Turbo variant houses a 1.0-litre three-cylinder Boosterjet engine, outputting 82kW and 160Nm of torque. The small turbocharger gives it surprising mid-range power—perfect for overtaking or merging onto freeways. Despite the added performance, fuel economy remains outstanding, thanks to Suzuki’s lightweight engineering philosophy.
Driving Experience: Nimble and Fun
What truly defines the Swift is its driving character. The car feels light, agile, and composed, especially on city streets. Its compact dimensions and tight turning circle make parking effortless—ideal for Australian urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Handling and Ride
Suzuki has refined the suspension for better comfort without compromising agility. The steering is well-weighted, providing enough feedback for confident cornering. Whether darting through traffic or navigating winding roads, the Swift feels planted and eager.
The 2025 model benefits from improved chassis stiffness, resulting in a smoother, quieter ride even on uneven surfaces. The ride quality strikes a perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness—a rare trait in budget hatchbacks.
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy is where the Swift shines brightest. The 1.2-litre DualJet returns an impressive 4.8L/100km, while the 1.0-litre Boosterjet averages around 5.1L/100km. These figures make it one of the most fuel-efficient petrol hatchbacks in Australia.
With rising fuel costs, this efficiency alone makes the Swift a smart long-term investment for daily commuters.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Suzuki continues to improve safety across its lineup, and the Swift now includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, particularly in higher trims.
Standard Safety Features
Even the entry-level variants come equipped with:
Dual front, side, and curtain airbags
ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Stability Control (ESC)
Hill Hold Assist
Rearview Camera
Advanced Safety Systems (GLX Turbo)
The GLX Turbo enhances safety with Suzuki Safety Support, which includes:
Lane Departure Warning and Prevention
Adaptive Cruise Control
Weaving Alert Function
Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
Blind Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
The combination of these features provides peace of mind for drivers and families alike. The Swift has also scored solid results in independent crash testing, making it a reassuring choice in the compact car segment.
Variants and Pricing in Australia
The Suzuki Swift is offered in several trims, giving buyers flexibility depending on budget and needs:
Swift GL (Manual) – from around $24,490 drive-away
Swift GL (CVT) – from around $25,990 drive-away
Swift GLX Turbo (Automatic) – from around $30,990 drive-away
All models include a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, aligning with industry standards. Suzuki also offers capped-price servicing for added predictability in ownership costs.
Optional accessories like alloy wheel upgrades, body kits, and roof spoilers allow buyers to personalise their Swift even further.
Ownership Costs and Reliability
Suzuki’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs plays a huge part in the Swift’s popularity. Servicing intervals are generally set every 12 months or 15,000 km, with affordable pricing through Suzuki’s capped-price program.
The car’s lightweight construction and simple mechanical design contribute to durability and longevity. Many Australian Swift owners report years of trouble-free ownership with minimal expenses beyond routine servicing.
Fuel economy, cheap insurance premiums, and strong resale values make the Swift one of the most cost-effective small cars on the market.
Practicality and Everyday Usability
Despite being compact, the Swift delivers impressive usability for everyday needs. The boot space comfortably accommodates groceries or small luggage, and folding the rear seats increases flexibility for larger items.
Visibility is excellent thanks to the tall windows and low dashboard design. The raised driving position provides a confident feel in city traffic. Parking sensors and a reversing camera further simplify urban driving, making it ideal for new drivers and those who frequently navigate tight parking spots.
How the Swift Compares to Rivals
In Australia’s compact hatchback segment, the Swift competes with models like the Mazda2, Toyota Yaris, Hyundai i20, and Kia Picanto.
Versus Mazda2: The Swift offers similar performance but at a lower starting price, with better fuel efficiency.
Versus Toyota Yaris: The Yaris hybrid is more fuel-efficient but significantly more expensive. The Swift’s affordability gives it a clear advantage.
Versus Kia Picanto: The Picanto undercuts the Swift in price but feels less refined on longer drives.
Versus Hyundai i20: The i20 offers more tech, but the Swift’s light handling and lower weight deliver a more playful drive.
Overall, the Swift remains the best balance between affordability, reliability, and fun in the segment.
Fuel Type and Environmental Considerations
The Swift remains petrol-powered, using efficient engines that comply with the latest Euro 6 emissions standards. While Suzuki Australia has yet to introduce a hybrid Swift, overseas markets already feature mild-hybrid options, which could reach local showrooms soon.
Even so, the Swift’s current petrol variants remain impressively eco-friendly, producing lower CO₂ emissions than most larger hatchbacks.
Verdict: Why the Suzuki Swift Still Makes Sense
The 2025 Suzuki Swift continues to prove that small cars still have a big role in Australia. It’s efficient, easy to park, inexpensive to run, and genuinely enjoyable to drive—qualities that make it perfect for city dwellers and first-time buyers alike.
While it doesn’t aim to be luxurious or ultra-sporty, the Swift nails what it sets out to do: deliver reliable, fun, and affordable motoring. Add in Suzuki’s reputation for dependability and strong resale values, and it’s easy to see why the Swift remains a favourite among Australian motorists.
If you’re looking for a compact hatchback that offers real value, comfort, and character, the Suzuki Swift deserves a place at the top of your shortlist.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
