Spied - New Maruti Suzuki Swift (Exclusive)
Maruti Suzuki's 2011 is going to be filled with action and adventure. The Kizashi sedan will be unleashed on February 2. The SX4 diesel with Fiat Multi-jet VGT is here during the end of February. The new Swift could be their third launch followed possibly by the R3 MPV, Alto 2-cylinder and the YE3 small car.
Caught testing by IAB follower Rahul Kohli, the new Swift in disguise can be easily mistaken for the current Swift. The key differences are U-shape rear window design, hulking tail gate and the larger, more relaxed headlamps. When masked, the front fascia and side profile are almost similar to the currently running Swift.
The new Swift is arriving in India by the end of 2011 with two engines. The 1.2-liter K Series petrol is rumored to receive upgrades in the form of variable valve timing technology and a marginal power bump. The 1.3-liter Multi-jet motor in its current form, continues serving on the new Swift.
The new Swift has grown marginally in length (+90mm) with a 50mm increase in wheelbase. Whether or not this translates into a more comfortable cabin remains to be seen.
It is time Maruti Suzuki did something about the mounting competition. The Ford Figo is literally running away with its new car sheen. The Sail hatch from SAIC is bloodthirsty, VW's Polo and Skoda's Fabia are doing steady volumes, Hyundai's i20 hatchback could achieve healthy growth in 2011.
Toyota's Etios hatchback will flood streets and Honda's Brio compact car is making quick progress in its journey to Honda dealerships.
Though the competition is not eating severely into the Swift's volumes, it's the segment growth that is attracting new players in the B and B+segment.
Maruti Suzuki would like to present an updated Swift to strengthen its stand in this highly competitive segment. By launching an updated Swift, Maruti Suzuki hopes to clock better volumes.
New Suzuki Swift Dimensions
* Length: 3,850mm
* Width: 1,695mm
* Height: 1,510mm
* Wheelbase: 2,430mm
* Front Track: 1,480mm
* Rear Track :1,485mm
New Suzuki Swift Spyshots
Further reading - Maruti Suzuki models for 2011
4) Nano-slayer Maruti YE3 (possibility)
