Japanese car maker Suzuki has launched the Swift 1.2 at a launch in the Western Cape this week.

The Suzuki Swift 1.2 comes in under the popular 1.4 model and is meant to be a cheaper, more affordable offering. Sadly as good as the Swift is, market forces have pushed the price beyond the reach of the lower income earners. This new 1.2 model is the answer and despite being marketed as a cheaper model, still retains the great characteristics of its 1.4 brother.

Two spec levels available

There are two specification levels on offer, as well as the option of a four-speed automatic gearbox. Powering the new Swift 1.2 is a 1.2-litre engine. This little 16V four cylinder motor still feels like a Suzuki and while its tuned for efficiency, still feels more than adequate. Power is rated at 63 kW, while torque comes in at 113 Nm. The fuel consumption figure is claimed to be 5.7l/100km for the manual, with the automatic being a little thirstier at 6.3l/100km.

Despite being marketed as a budget model, the Suzuki Swift 1.2 has a lot of kit as standard. The base GA trim offersmanual air-conditioning with pollen filter, front head restraints, a remote tailgate release, sun visors with a vanity mirror for the front passenger occupants, a parcel shelf behind the rear bench seat, and four loudspeakers. You best be heading to HiFi Corporation for an aftermarket radio as the four speakers aren’t connected to anything. It may seem sparse, but you’re saving quite a lot of money.

Swift 1.2 GL – the one to have

My advice is to go for the 1.2 GL manual, which is the one to have in this range. It’s mechanically the same, but adds in some nice-to-haves like colour-coded mirrors and door handles, as well as front fog lights. The seats are nicer, and there’s a rev counter.There’s a CD player with USB/aux inputs and there are radio satellite controls on the steering wheel. All round electric windows, remote centrol locking, keyless entry, and decent safety features (front airbags, ABS) round off a surprisingly well-specced entry level offering.

Our launch route took us from CT airport to Malmesbury, then we dashed through the Cape Winelands. After a lunch stop at one of the wine farms, we headed to Stellenbosch and onto Somerset West. A quick driver change later and we powered through to Gordon’s Bay and onto the breathtaking R44 coastal road. It’s easily a personal favourite driving road and combined amazing views as well as a terrific stretch of tarmac where you can have great fun, regardless of engine size. We also drove the new Suzuki Swift Dzire sedan as part of the launch.

I’m happy to say the Suzuki Swift performed admirably in the high-performance stretch, with the engine providing more than enough power. Torque may be a little lacking, but to overtake simply change down a gear or two. With a five-speed gearbox that sweet, you’ll relish the experience.

The Suzuki Swift 1.2 is an impressive offering. So impressive that Cars.co.za writer Gero Lilleike purchased one for himself!

Suzuki Swift 1.2 Price in South Africa

* Atwo-year/30 000 km service plan and a three-year/100 000 km warranty is included. There’s also a three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance package thrown in.

Suzuki Swift 1.2 Photo gallery