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With something exciting just around the corner, we wanted to show just how far the Swift has come in its 40 years of production because it’s not been without some fun! There are so many stories to share - this little car has won more awards than we can count, helped us to become globally recognisable, and continues to impress owners to this day. So, it only felt right to give the Swift its moment in the spotlight.
But whilst we’re on the topic, we like to think each Suzuki owner has a story to share with their car, and we’d love to hear them. It doesn’t matter that this specific article might be about the Swift (we don’t discriminate!), so whether you’re an Ignis driver through n’ through, or have sworn allegiance to the Jimny, you can share your stories, adding them to the archives – there might even be something in it for you.*
1983-1989
FIRST GENERATION
You might not recognise the car to the left, but it’s actually a Swift. Initially introduced to Japan as the Cultus, the model adopted a new name before making its way to Europe and the UK, one that would last well over 40 years. The Cultus was first launched in 1983 at the 25th Tokyo Motor Show and went head-to-head with the Toyota Starlet and Nissan Micra, but we reckon this 1987 model proves it has stood the test of time – not bad for 36 right?
In the UK, this Swift was sold in both three-door and five-door hatchback forms as well as a 1.3GTi three-door model. The 1987 ‘E’ registration car shown here has rightfully taken its place in our heritage fleet, alongside Barry Sheene’s Jimny, and will be well looked after by our team of engineers. Although, it seems to be doing pretty well for itself, it is currently road registered and historic status taxed, and there are just two other examples known in the UK.
It might not be the generation that got us featured on Top Gear, or named ‘Best value Hot hatchback for less than £15,000’ six years running from What Car?, but it is the model that made the team at headquarters reckon ‘Swift’ was a good match, so that certainly says something!
WANT TO SEE MORE?
We spent the day getting up close and personal with this Swift, and it is simply brimming with character. Not only does it ooze nostalgia, but it also packs a serious punch.
1989-2003
SECOND GENERATION SWIFT
So, the next Swift stuck around for quite a bit longer than the first generation, being in production for just over 13 years, and boy did we have some fun with it.
We’re talking three and five doors, 1.0 litre three-cylinder engines or four cylinder engines, a 1.3 litre GTI model with almost 100bhp and four-wheel disc brakes - making it one of the first hot hatchbacks of the era with a kerb weight of less than 800kg - and that’s not even touching on the limited-edition models. The 1.0-litre GLS model shot here has covered only 20,000 miles with one owner since 2001. That’s right, we’ve got ourselves an oldie but a goldie.
We sold around 5,000 units every year of this Swift model but they are a rare sight on UK roads now, with only around 470 examples currently registered; if you’ve got one, we’d love to know about it!
2005-2010
THIRD GENERATION SWIFT
Launched in the UK in May 2005, you can see why there might have been an 18-month break between the end of production and the launch of the new model.
At the time, we had really wanted to set the precedent for how we meant to go on, strengthening our position as both a leading compact car manufacturer and one of the world’s biggest motorcycle brands. The result played to the Swift’s existing personality, making the car look sportier, and all around more fun, which in turn inspired the Swift Sport. Third time lucky right?
BEHIND THE SCENES
Drone pilots, and actual pilots! A lot happened on the day of shoot, take a look at what went on behind the camera.
BEHIND THE SCENES
Drone pilots, and actual pilots! A lot happened on the day of shoot, take a look at what went on behind the camera.
2010 - 2017
FOURTH GENERATION SWIFT
The upgrades did not end there, the 4th generation Swift was positioned as our 'world strategic model' – sounds fancy right? - we made strong developments in styling, impact safety, driving performance, handling, improved fuel consumption and significantly lower emissions.
2017 - 2023
FIFTH GENERATION SWIFT
Bringing us swiftly on to today! You probably know all there is to know about our current Swift, from its hatchback styling that is undoubtedly Suzuki, and all the tech and safety features you need built in as standard, not forgetting hybrid technology…it almost makes you wonder, where could it go from here, could it really get any better?
SEE THEM ALL IN ACTION
Experience the Swift through the eras.
NEW SWIFT IS COMING
PRE-REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Okay, okay we’ll stop beating around the bush. We’ve got something exciting up our sleeves! The New Swift is making its way to the UK, and we want you to be the first to know more. It’s been 40 years in the making so trust us, you won’t want to miss this. Pre-register your interest below.
SHARE YOUR SUZUKI STORIES WITH US
ADD YOUR CAR TO THE ARCHIVES
Submit a picture of your Suzuki, along with a memorable story with your car to be in with a chance of winning some festive vintage Swift socks.*