The new face and features of one of New Zealand's most popular little superminis have been revealed in Japan. Yes, this is the all new Suzuki Swift.
Two JDM models have been shown off so far; a base model and the RSt. Three engines across the two platforms have been confirmed; a 1.2-litre petrol, a turbocharged 1.0-litre in the RSt, and a hybrid across both.
In standard form the Swift will reportedly be available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the RSt will strictly be FWD.
Visually the new hatch somehow manages to be both a big departure from the current Swift — which has looked pretty much the same for the last 12 years — and distinctly Suzuki at the same time.
A wavy new character line connects headlight to taillight, with a contoured bonnet helping continue the theme. The blackened C-pillar now houses the rear door handles, and helps give the Swift a floating roof.
Red trim on the nose of the RSt underlines the car's sporting ambitions, while weirdly also reminding us of the Jaguar F Type ...
But perhaps the biggest changes have been in technology. For the first time ever for the manufacturer, the new-gen hatch will offer a collision-mitigation system. High-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, and a big ol' infotainment screen are also on the menu. All of this is mated to a rather grown-up looking interior.
What remains absent from announcements is the replacement for the beloved Swift Sport. A highly camouflaged replacement was spotted testing in August, believed to be unveiled towards the middle of next year.
Japan naturally gets the new Swift first on January 4, with a global launch scheduled for March's Geneva Motor Show.
As much as the current Swift is loved, this upcoming new model looks set to take the nameplate to new uncharted heights.
