Suzuki Swift Hybrid launched in Japan, gets 32.0 km/L mileage

Suzuki Motor has unveiled the Suzuki Swift Hybrid for the Japanese market. The car comes in two variants: Swift Hybrid SG and Swift Hybrid SL. The vehicle is on sale at prices ranging from 1,660,000 yen to 1,944,000 yen. Note that this model should not be confused with the Swift Hybrid ML and Hybrid RS available since market launch, which features the mild-hybrid SHVS system.

This system on the Swift Hybrid features a 91 PS 1.2L 4-cyl petrol engine paired with a 10 kW Motor Generator unit motor and a 5-speed AGS (AMT) gearbox. At low load conditions, the system can shut off the engine and can run in full electric mode for a very limited distance. Suzuki claims that the Swift Hybrid can average 32.0 km/L (JC08 cycle). It's only available as a 2WD.

The exterior has no distinctive features to the other variants on sale in Japan, save for the 'Hybrid' badge on the front wing. It measures 3,840 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width and 1,500 mm/1,525 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,450 mm. Inside, it has a blue accent on the AGS selector, dedicated hybrid display with power distribution graphic and has paddle shifters. The Swift Hybrid also comes with Suzuki's Dual Camera Brake Support.

Given that all incentives on hybrid cars in India are gone don't expect to see a Maruti Swift Hybrid. Instead, the regular 2018 Maruti Swift with 1.2L petrol and 1.3L DDiS diesel variants, perhaps boasting of class-leading mileage, is reported to arrive in showrooms in early 2018.