About the Suzuki Swift Mk4
AI-generatedThe Suzuki Swift Mk4 (2017-2024) represents a thoroughly modern take on the popular supermini, built on the lightweight HEARTECT platform. This generation is lighter than its predecessor by up to 120kg, contributing to excellent fuel economy and nimble handling. Available with 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged Boosterjet or 1.2-litre four-cylinder Dualjet petrol engines, plus the sporty Swift Sport with a 1.4-litre turbo, the Mk4 offers a compelling blend of efficiency and fun. The car features contemporary styling with floating roof design, improved interior quality, and enhanced safety equipment. This generation introduced mild-hybrid technology (SHVS - Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) to the range in 2020, improving fuel economy further while maintaining the Swift's reputation for being lightweight and agile. The interior is more spacious than before despite the car's compact exterior dimensions, with better materials and technology including touchscreen infotainment. The Swift continues to punch above its weight in terms of driving enjoyment, with sharp steering and excellent body control making it one of the more engaging superminis to drive.
Known Issues
Known Issues
Mk4 (2017-2024)
2017-2024
- Gearbox notchiness in cold weather, particularly affecting early 1.0 Boosterjet models
- Clutch judder reported on some manual transmission models, especially during low-speed manoeuvres
- Touchscreen infotainment system can be slow to respond or occasionally freeze, requiring a restart
- Front suspension top mount bearings wearing prematurely on some examples, causing knocking sounds
- Paint quality concerns on some early models with thin paint prone to stone chips
- Rear wash-wipe system prone to freezing in winter and motor failures
- Minor electrical gremlins including parking sensor false alarms and Bluetooth connectivity issues
- Some owners report excessive tyre wear on front tyres, particularly with the Sport model
Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£1,100-£1,400
Insurance Group
18-28
Average Service
£250-£350
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight construction delivers exceptional fuel economy and nimble handling
- Engaging and fun to drive with sharp steering and excellent body control
- Competitive pricing with generous standard equipment levels
- Spacious interior for the class with good rear legroom and boot space
- Low running costs including affordable insurance and servicing
- Strong reliability record with Suzuki's proven mechanicals
- Swift Sport offers genuine performance car thrills at supermini running costs
Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - Introduction of the SHVS mild-hybrid system improves fuel economy and refinement, while most early teething issues had been resolved. This model year also benefited from updated infotainment software.
- 2022 - Mature production with all issues addressed, plus availability of the excellent Swift Sport with improved dynamics and warranty coverage still applicable for newer examples.
Worst Years
- 2017 - First year of production with the most reports of gearbox notchiness, clutch judder, and infotainment glitches. Early paint quality concerns also more prevalent on 2017 models.
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Mk4 Swift is up to 120kg lighter than the previous generation thanks to the HEARTECT platform, making it one of the lightest cars in its class at just 890kg for the base model.
The Swift Sport can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 7.9 seconds, making it one of the quickest warm hatches available and faster than many hot hatches from a generation earlier.
Suzuki's mild-hybrid system (SHVS) uses a small integrated starter generator that can provide torque assistance and energy recovery, improving fuel economy by up to 15%.
The Swift has been a consistent winner in its class for driver engagement, often praised for having some of the best steering feel in the supermini segment.
Gallery
Alternatives to Consider
Ford Fiesta Mk8
More refined interior, better infotainment system, and wider engine choice, though less engaging to drive and more expensive.
Mazda 2
Similar driving enjoyment with better interior quality and stronger reliability reputation, but less modern tech and higher pricing.
Toyota Yaris
Excellent hybrid efficiency and superior reliability record, though less fun to drive and more expensive to purchase.
Volkswagen Polo
Premium feel with sophisticated interior and smooth engines, but significantly more expensive and less engaging dynamics.
Hyundai i20
Better warranty coverage and more standard equipment, with competitive pricing, though less sporty character.
Owner Tips
- 1Allow the gearbox to warm up fully in cold weather before demanding quick shifts to minimise notchiness and wear.
- 2Keep the infotainment system updated with the latest software from Suzuki dealers to minimise freezing and connectivity issues.
- 3Check and lubricate the rear wash-wipe mechanism regularly during winter to prevent motor failures from freezing.
- 4Inspect front suspension top mounts during servicing and replace if knocking sounds develop to prevent further wear.
- 5Consider paint protection film on the front end due to thin paint susceptibility to stone chips.
- 6Rotate tyres regularly to maximise even wear, particularly important on the Sport model.
- 7The mild-hybrid battery requires no maintenance but ensure 12V battery is kept charged if the car sits unused for extended periods.
- 8Use good quality fuel to keep the small capacity turbocharged engines running cleanly and prevent carbon buildup.
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