The country's largest car-maker Maruti Suzuki on Wednesday launched the new version of its premium hatchback 'Swift' at an introductory price ranging from Rs 4.22 lakh to Rs 6.38 lakh.
Built on an all-new platform, the company and its suppliers have invested over Rs 500 crore on the new car.
Launched six years back, the Swift has been a runaway success for the company, with over six lakh units sold so far. MSI is hoping that the new version will further strengthen its position.
The new Swift retains the round look; however elements like the headlights and tail lights have a stretched look.
The only department where the difference isn't drastic between the older model and the new Swift lies under the hood. The engines from the outgoing Swift have been carried over to the new car, essentially the K-Series 1.2-litre petrol and the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engines.
The 1197cc petrol engine generates 87PS @ 6000rpm and a torque of 114Nm at 4000rpm whereas the 1248cc DDiS diesel engine remains the same and offers 75PS @ 4000rpm and a torque of 190Nm @ 2000rpm.
Both versions are mated to 5-speed gearboxes that are different from the outgoing version's transmission. The new Swift boasts of ABS, dual SRS airbags, braking with a Boost Assist System (BAS) and increased torsional rigidity.
Maruti Suzuki launched the Swift in 2005. Despite being more than six years old, the model has consistently maintained its waiting list period of three-four months. The DZiRE on the other hand commands a 4-5 month wait. Maruti sells about 12,000 units of the Swift and 10,000 units of stablemate DZiRE every month.