Suzuki Swift 'Strong Hybrid' debuts at GIIAS 2018 in Indonesia

PT Suzuki Indomobil Motor has showcased the Swift Hybrid at the GIIAS 2018. This is the same JDM-spec Swift Hybrid which was launched in Japan in July 2017. However, the Indonesian subsidiary has branded it 'Swift Strong Hybrid'.

The Swift Hybrid can be differentiated thanks to its honeycomb grille, 'Hybrid' badges on the fenders and different alloy wheel design with low rolling resistance tires. The Swift Hybrid is powered by a 1.2-liter four-cylinder VVT petrol engine developing 91 PS and assisted by a 10 kW electric motor.

The combo drives the front wheels through a 5-speed automated manual transmission. Suzuki says that at low load conditions the system can shut off the engine and run in a full electric mode for a short distance. The Swift Hybrid averages a mileage of 32.0 km/L (JC08 cycle) claim Suzuki.

Inside, the Swift Hybrid gets a blue detailing element for the gear lever, paddle shifters and a screen displaying state of the battery, electric motor and whether it is charging or discharging.

Also read: 9 models of Maruti Suzuki meet India's new crash test norms

Maruti Suzuki launched the new generation Swift in India in February this year, in petrol and diesel variants but a huge question mark hangs on the hybrid variant.

While reports state Maruti will bring the Swift Hybrid to the country, the Indian government increased taxes on hybrid vehicles to 43 percent last year which forced Maruti to increase prices of the Ciaz and Ertiga SHVS (mild hybrid) by up to INR 60,000. Maruti is also reportedly working on launching an electric variant of the next-generation Wagon R in the turn of the decade.

[Image source - CarDekho.com]