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- CarGraze
- Oct 03, 2024
- Car Info
The 2024 Maruti Swift: A Closer Look at the Changes
The Maruti Swift has been a favorite among drivers, praised for its powerful and efficient 1.2-liter K12 4-cylinder engine. However, the new generation model has opted for a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine. So, the big question is does it still deliver the excitement Swift lovers are accustomed to?
Platform and Safety
One of the first things to note is that the platform has not changed significantly; it still utilizes the HardTech platform, though Maruti claims it has been reinforced for better structural strength. While it hasn't yet been tested by Global NCAP, we can expect some improvements. What’s reassuring is that the safety features have seen an upgrade. Six airbags, Hill Hold Assist, and ABS now come standard even from the base variant (LXI), making the Swift safer than ever before.
Design Language
From a distance, you may not immediately recognize it as a new-generation Swift because the silhouette remains quite similar to its predecessor. The subtle tweaks at the front, like the full LED headlamp setup and a more aggressive grille design, do give it a fresher look. The overall profile has remained largely the same, but a few minor adjustments like repositioning the door handles make a noticeable difference. The 15-inch alloy wheels (185/65 R15) complement the design without being overly flashy, while the rear tailgate has been slightly recessed, adding a bit of modern flair.
Interior Comfort and Features
Step inside, and the first thing you'll notice is the 9-inch touchscreen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the screen is functional, the bezels are notably large, and there's not much change in the overall interior layout. The seats remain as comfortable as ever, providing good side-bolster support, although taller individuals might find them a bit snug.
In terms of features, the Swift retains its D-cut steering wheel, cruise control, and other essentials like engine start-stop. However, some conveniences are missing compared to its cousin, the Baleno. For example, while the Swift has a wireless charger, it only supports a Type-A USB port something that feels outdated in a world increasingly leaning toward Type-C connectivity.
Space and Practicality
Though the new Swift claims to be more practical, some aspects fall short. The boot space, for instance, has been reduced slightly to 265 liters, but it’s not a major change that would affect most users. What does stand out, however, is the lack of adjustable headrests and a rear armrest, which may be an inconvenience on longer drives. Additionally, while the 6-airbag feature adds to safety, the absence of weight sensors means that unbuckled seatbelts could trigger constant alerts.
As for the rear seating, it’s comfortable enough for shorter individuals, but taller passengers might find the headroom and legroom a bit restrictive, especially on longer journeys.
Performance and Efficiency
The biggest change in the new Swift lies under the hood. The 1.2-liter engine has dropped from a 4-cylinder to a 3-cylinder configuration, resulting in a slight decrease in power-down by 7 BHP and 1 Nm of torque. While this may sound like a compromise, Maruti has assured drivers that they've worked on improving the car's low-end torque by 10-12%. Another bonus is the impressive fuel efficiency: 25.8 km/l with AGS and 24.7 km/l with the manual version, making the Swift one of the most fuel-efficient petrol cars in India.
Baleno vs Swift: Which One to Choose?
If you’re debating between the Swift and the Baleno, here’s something to consider: for just Rs. 20,000 more, you get a car with a longer wheelbase, more cabin space, and additional features like a 360-degree camera, auto-dimming IRVM, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Baleno also offers a smoother ride with a slightly higher ground clearance of 170 mm compared to Swift's 163 mm. If you're after more tech and comfort, Baleno might be the better choice, especially with available discounts.
Final Thoughts
The new Maruti Swift may not represent a radical departure from its previous generation, but it builds upon the strengths that have made it a best-seller. The upgrades in safety features, slight tweaks in design, and improved fuel efficiency ensure that it remains competitive. While it may have lost the charm of the old 4-cylinder engine, it offers enough to satisfy both loyal fans and new buyers. If performance and excitement are still top of your list, it might be worth waiting for a test drive before making your decision.
Stay tuned for more detailed insights when we get behind the wheel and take the new Swift for a spin!
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