A true original amongst affordable and quality city cars and superminis, the first Swift arrived in 1983, and the latest version launched in mid-2024 is version number six.
Employing an evolved 'Heartect' architecture as per the previous Swift, the Hybrid GLX is the flagship for this generation, building on from the base Hybrid and mid-range Hybrid Plus.
A 1.2-litre mild-hybrid three-cylinder petrol engine drives the front wheels via a CVT auto, delivering 61kW of power at 5700rpm and 112Nm of torque at 4500rpm.
Read more about Suzuki Swift
Explore the 2024 Suzuki Swift range
Being a mild-hybrid, the Hybrid GLX, like the rest of the latest Swift range, also has an ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) in its arsenal, providing a bit more power (2.3kW) and torque (60Nm), along with a 12-volt lithium-ion battery that's recharged only via regenerative braking.
As such, this powertrain never drives the front wheels on electricity alone for any of the latest Swift grades.
Still, the Suzuki is commendably frugal. The combined average fuel consumption figure is 4.0L/100km and 80g/km of carbon-dioxide emissions – but do keep in mind that this drinks from the more-expensive 95 RON premium unleaded bowser.
Safety-wise, the Hybrid GLX comes with AEB, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, a blind-spot monitor, driver-drowsiness warning, traffic-sign recognition, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control and LED headlights.
You’ll also score keyless entry and start, a wireless phone charger, folding exterior mirrors, steering wheel paddle shifters, climate control air-conditioning, a 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, digital radio, electrically heated/folding mirrors, heated front seats, a leather steering wheel, privacy glass, multiple USB ports, rear heater ducts and glossy alloy wheels. A proper little luxury runabout, then, with a price to match.
But don’t expect a spare wheel unless you’re prepared to pay extra for one – Suzuki only offers a tyre-inflation kit as standard.