Maruti Swift road test, review

The fourth-generation Swift is largely an evolution of the outgoing version, with which it shares its ‘Heartect’ platform, albeit with changes to its front stabiliserbar, tweaked rear suspension and some other structural enhancements. Like before, the company focused on lightweighting and efficiency, but the addition of side and curtain airbags, new equipment and some mechanical bits have made this new-gen 20-25kg heavier, with the top variants tipping the scales at 920-925kg. Interestingly, despite being significantly larger in dimension than the first-gen Swift, this new car is still about 90 kilograms lighter.

But compared to its predecessor, it is 15mm longer, 10mm lower and its front track is 5mm narrower; however, its wheelbase, width and rear track are identical. And like its underpinnings, its body shell also appears to be an evolution of the version it replaces. It is an unmistakable ‘Swift’ silhouette, with design elements that are rounder and body lines that are softer and curvier. New L-shaped DRLs, an oval-shaped front grille and a chin finished in a contrasting shade add freshness to its appearance, while its clamshell-like bonnet and a neatly defined body line (that runs the length of the car from the headlamps to the tail-lamps) add to its character. It sits on 185/65 R15 tyres sporting new diamond-cut alloys.

The rear door handles have been repositioned from the C-pillar (in the Gen 3) to a more conventional position on the doors (like Gen 1 and 2 cars). The tailgate neatly dips between its stylish, new trapezoidal tail-lamps with C-Shaped LED elements. The inclusion of a full-size underbody engine cover, which, along with smooth body lines, redesigned C-pillars, repositioned rear door handles and a roof spoiler, are said to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.