The latest-generation Suzuki Swift, now with a fizzy 3-cylinder engine, has South Africans flocking to dealerships because of its generous spec and safety features. So, what do you get in the safety department?
Related: New Swift launched in SA
Swiftly does it! We think the Swift is so much more than just a 'starter'-car.
Safety equipment on board the new Suzuki Swift
For starters, six airbags are standard, which means rear passengers are also protected. ESP is also part of the package to prevent skidding and loss of control. Here is the full list.
| 1.2 GL MT | 1.2 GL+ MT | 1.2 GL+ CVT | 1.2 GLX MT | 1.2 GLX CVT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS with EBD function | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ESP®** | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SRS front dual airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SRS side airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SRS curtain airbags | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX child seat anchors (x2) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Immobiliser | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Security alarm | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Safety isn't just about ABS and airbags though - things like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto also help in keeping the driver's attention on the road ahead, while satellite buttons on the steering wheel for easy access to infotainment is also helpful.
The GLX model gets the bigger touchscreen along with other nice-to-haves.
Audio in the Suzuki Swift
| 1.2 GL MT | 1.2 GL+ MT | 1.2 GL+ CVT | 1.2 GLX MT | 1.2 GLX CVT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth®* | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | No | 7.0-inch | 7.0-inch | 9.0-inch | 9.0-inch |
| Smartphone connectivity | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rearview camera | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| USB port - Centre console | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
3 Things you'll love about the new Swift
The system's Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality can also be viewed as a safety feature (seen here in the GLX variant).
Suzuki Swift: Interior features
| 1.2 GL MT | 1.2 GL+ MT | 1.2 GL+ CVT | 1.2 GLX MT | 1.2 GLX CVT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | R219 900 | R239 900 (recommended) | R259 900 | R264 900 | R284 900 |
| Steering wheel controls | No | Audio control and hands-free phone control | Audio control and hands-free phone control | Audio control and hands-free phone control | Audio control and hands-free phone control |
| Information display | Segment display | Segment display | Segment display | Colour LCD | Colour LCD |
| Electric windows - front | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electric windows - rear | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Remote central locking | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Keyless entry & push start | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| A/C type | Manual (with digital control panel) | Manual (with digital control panel) | Manual (with digital control panel) | Automatic | Automatic |
| Front driver's seat height adjustment | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear seats - 60:40-split single-fold | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Seat upholstery material | Fabric | Fabric | Fabric | Fabric | Fabric |
The Swift is one of the best entry-level cars available in SA.
Verdict
The Swift is a great choice for budget-minded drivers, but if you want the most important safety features, we recommend opting for the 1.2 GL+ instead of the entry-level GL model.
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