Maruti Swift road test, review

The Swift has already cemented its place in the list of bestsellers, but how good is it? We put it through our exhaustive real-world tests to find out.

Published on Sep 25, 2024 05:27:00 PM

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Repositioned rear door handle, redesigned C-pillar improve aero.

Camera display isn’t as clear or sharp as some of its rivals; doesn’t get adaptive guidelines either.

Appreciably, ESP, hill-start assist and 6 airbags are standard.

This new Swift is a practical, well-equipped and fuel-efficient hatch. Its handling is more fun and engaging than its predecessor and thus, the new Swift moves closer to the ethos of the first-generation car. It’s a pity the engine leans more towards efficiency than performance, which is what a car like the Swift deserves. What could be a bigger deterrent, though, is the price of its top variants, which are simply too close to the more premium, comfier and better-equipped Baleno.

But don’t write off the new Swift just yet. Its new Z12E petrol engine is very fuel-efficient and owners will particularly appreciate its light controls and overall user-friendliness. The AMT is the nicest by class standards, and the 5-speed manual is among the best gearboxes out there. And true to its character, its aesthetics, both inside and out, are youthful and sporty, easily making it the most charming Maruti hatchback on sale.