See, Suzuki has opted to launch the sub-compact hatchback with just one engine and that’s a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder (Z12E) engine. The new engine, however, comes in both conventional and electrified (mild hybrid) flavors.

The Z12E is a relatively high compression engine (13:1) which already pushes out 82 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 108 Nm at 4,500 rpm. On the hybrids, a small electric motor (WA06D) with 3.1 horsepower and 60 Nm assists the engine and even recaptures braking energy (hence the standard disc brakes only on the hybrid) and stores it in a compact lithium-ion 3Ah battery.

Suzuki says the new Swift can do 23.4 km/L on the regular 1.2-liter and 24.5 km/L on the electrified 1.2 based on WLTP tests.

Mated to either a 5-speed manual or CVT (thankfully, no AGS this time), Suzuki says the Swift will benefit from improvements alla round from enhanced fuel economy and lower emissions to better low-end torque for greater responsiveness.

Even more interesting is this dinky powertrain can be mated to an all-wheel drive system. The Allgrip Auto system on the Swift is an automatic all-wheel drive system that automatically engages when it detects a loss of front wheel traction. When front-wheel slippage is detected, a viscous coupling engages to transfer torque to the rear wheels, providing additional traction for driving on slippery roads.

The Swift’s overall design is an evolution of the current model, but it’s been cleaned up with a new high-gloss grille, L-shaped signature lamps, and more pronounced fenders. Moreover, the floating roof motif adds a sense of visual lightness.

Inside, the Swift is designed around an ergonomic driving experience. This means that the center console and controls are all subtly angled towards the driver. The wraparound, dual-tone dashboard and door cards, with satin plating and satin dark silver paint accents, give the cabin a sporty, dynamic look. At the center is a 9-inch display audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

In terms of safety, the all-new Swift benefits from a myriad of advanced driver assist tech. The new Dual Sensor Brake Support II or DSBS II combines a millimeter-wave radar and a monocular camera to detect not just other vehicles but bicycles and pedestrians as well. If a collision seems possible, audio and visual warnings are issued to alert the driver. If the driver brakes with insufficient force, brake assist automatically engages to help slow the vehicle. And if the probability of a collision increases, the system automatically applies brake force to help reduce impact force and mitigate damage.

It also comes with Lane Keep Assist and even a Driver Monitoring System which uses a built-in camera to monitor the driver’s attentiveness. If the system detects that the driver is drowsy, falling asleep, or looking away from the road, it sounds a warning alarm and displays an alert message on the information display.

Suzuki has already started selling the all-new Swift in its home market of Japan with other markets such as Europe starting early 2024. No word on when it will arrive for the ASEAN market for now.