The next-gen Swift Sport is set to go turbocharged with Suzuki to replace the existing high-revving naturally aspirated engine with a downsized turbocharged engine.
Power for the Swift Sport will come from a more potent version of the 140hp, 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine already used in the Vitara SUV in international markets. This will replace the high-revving 138hp, normally aspirated, 1.6-litre engine used in the current car. All of the traits that have given the first two generations of the Swift Sport are expected to be carried over to the new car, like the engaging drive experience, slick manual gearbox, subtle bodykit and low kerb weight, which could even drop to less than 1,000kg in the next-generation car.
The next-generation Swift received an early online debut in March when images of a design concept were leaked. The proportions remain similar to those of the current model, but the design features an altogether sharper and more technical look, with sculpted body sides and a more distinctive treatment for the C-pillars.
The interior of the new Swift was also previewed, with the cabin of the design concept appearing to be much more premium than that of the current model, with improved switchgear and materials and an infotainment screen in the centre console.
In the standard model’s line-up, the biggest change will be the introduction of the 1.0-litre Boosterjet motor used in the Baleno in international markets – India will get the Baleno RS equipped with the same motor later this year.
The Swift Sport is expected to launch internationally by end-2017 following the launch of its standard sibling earlier in the year.
While the standard Swift is expected to arrive in India sometime around its international launch, there is no news if Maruti will introduce the Swift Sport in the country, with the automaker having not launched the previous generations of the Sport hatchback in India.