Suzuki Swift Sport: now hybrid but with less power

The Suzuki Swift Sport finally earns the DGT ECO label thanks to its 48-volt mild hybrid system. This has cost it 10 CV less power.

The Japanese brand offers a very wide range of ECO models in the SUV segment. From the smallest model, the Ignis, to the largest. Both the Vitara and the S-Cross feature this updated mild hybrid technology that earns them the environmental label.

We tested the Suzuki Vitara very recently at its presentation and it remains one of the best bets in its segment. We also tested the Suzuki Swift Sport but in its un-updated petrol version. We loved the model, but now with this new technology it moves up a step and positions itself as one of the best alternatives in its segment.

It loses power but gains efficiency

The most substantial change in the new Swift Sport is its loss of horsepower compared with the petrol version. The new engine is a 1.4 Boosterjet producing 130 CV and 235 Nm delivered at 2,000 rpm. Less power but more torque. The electric motor adds an extra 50 Nm and just over 10 CV to give the combustion engine the help it needs in phases of high power demand.

The 48V ISG generator performs the function we already know from other MHEV models, both in Suzuki and across the rest of the brands. It works simply as an extra support for the combustion engine and cannot move the vehicle on its own. But during pull-away, deceleration or maximum acceleration, this mild hybrid system either assists or relieves the combustion engine, depending on the case, to improve its efficiency.

The direct consequence of this operation is lower consumption and low emissions. According to the WLTP cycle provided by Suzuki, CO2 emissions are 127 g/km. Meanwhile consumption will be 15% lower and emissions would be reduced by around 20%.

Sales in Spain have not yet begun, so until they do we will not have more data on prices and equipment. But Suzuki has confirmed there will be new safety features. For now, as far as specific data goes, we only know that the car’s weight will remain unchanged and that its acceleration has been penalised by one second. The 0-100 km/h time of the Swift Sport MHEV will now be just over 9 seconds.

Technical specifications of this car

HatchbackSuzuki Swift6 versions · from 20,905 €