Suzuki Swift and SX4
author: Patrick Vermaak
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Impressive Suzuki Swift
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Looking like the car version of Zorro the Suzuki Swift just has that something which immediately makes it appealing to most. Competitively priced, really economical, spacious cabin, really well equipped and fun to drive the Suzuki is set to become a very popular choice with both young and “old”. It’s not a robot racer, but it’s no slouch either, it’s great in the city and fun on the open road.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Well equipped
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Suzuki does have a proud record in motorsport thanks to the superb motorcycles produced over the years and now their cars look set to create their own reputation. At R131 900 the 74 kW / 6000 rpm and 133 Nm delivered by the well equipped 1.5 GLS have to be considered excellent value for money and with a three year / 100 000km warranty and four year / 60 000km service plan included in the deal you should have ordered one by now. One tends to expect more performance from the VVT 1.5 powerplant but it has clearly been geared for practicality rather than outright performance and it cruises along at really low revs. If you feel racy, the Swift needs to wound up before trying on any rapid maneuvers. Getting econmy figures of 7 l/100km proved easy and one could accept that the 6.1 l/100km claimed by Suzuki could well be within reached once the car has been run in properly.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
VVT 1.5 Powerplant
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The only criticism was the lack of reach adjustment on the steering and once the family of two starts expanding one could find baggage space extremely limited. Having already been voted the Australian, UK and Japanese Car of the Year and numerous victories as Small Car of The Year the most appropriate titles achieved must be as the Most Fun Car in Japan in 05/06. Definitely the class leader when relating value for money! It’s also available as a basic GL @ R116 900 or four speed automatic @ R144 900.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
It simply wants to have fun
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Then there is the SX4. Followers of the WRC (World Rally Championship) will be aware of the fact that Suzuki have entered the most spectacular arena of motorsport and though they do not yet poses a serous threat their presence are generating much interest as the world series progress towards S2000. Unfortunately the local version is not a 4x4 as the 4 would be indicating. The Sport (S) and Crossover (X) reference is fitting and the styling is refreshingly sporty.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
SX at Tietiesbaai
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Very well equipped and comfortable interior and a more practical luggage configuration makes this a very attractive package as it is also powered by 1995cc 107kW(5800 rpm) and 183 Nm(3500 rpm) four cylinder engine that provides lively, yet economical performance figures and with a four star NCAP rating this will almost certainly prove a popular option for the active family man. Once again one tends to place the Sx first when value for money is evaluated as it really is well equipped, practical and safe and it comes with a three year 100 00km warranty, six year corrosion warranty as well as a six year 90 000km service plan – and roadside assist!
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
SX wants to play
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Having owned a few traditional Suzuki products (that is the two wheeled variety) it’s exciting to see what they have achieved with the new Swift and SX models. They took a bold step into the challenging WRC series and have not disappointed in endurance and sheer guts. They certainly represent good value for your investment.
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