SUZUKI SWIFT HISTORY

SWIFT HISTORY

Suzuki Swift is a subcompact automobile from the Suzuki Motor Corporation. At its introduction in 1985], it was named as the SA-310, but from 1986 it was given the name Swift. It was powered by a modest 993 cc straight-3 engine giving 50 hp (37 kW). 0 to 100 km/h is done in 14.9 seconds and the top speed is 145 km/h. The engine is very light, weighing only 63 kg. The suspension came from the Suzuki Alto.

The Swift initially came in two versions called GA and GL. The GL was the upscale version. The later GTi version added fuel injection and performance was improved to 100 hp (75 kW) and a top speed of 196 km/h.

The Swift is also sold in different markets as Pontiac Firefly(Canada), Chevrolet Sprint (USA/Canada), Geo Metro (USA/Canada) and Maruti Esteem (India). In Japan, the JDM version of the Swift is known as the Suzuki Cultus. In South America, except in Chile, it is sold as the Chevrolet Swift. Variations of the Swift are available as a 3-door hatchback, a 5-door hatchback, a 4-door sedan, and a 2-door convertible.

Suzuki Swift MK1 (1985 - 1988)

The MK1 series was available in a number of engine configurations including a carbureted 1.0 L (G10 engine), a fuel injected turbocharged 1.0 L (G10 engine, and a fuel injected 1.3 L (G13). The MK1 series was the first to introduce the Swift GTi. The Swift GTi utilized the G13B engine. The G13B is a DOHC 16 valve, 1.3 L, inline 4 cylinder engine that features an aluminum block and cylinder head, forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, and cast aluminum high compression pistons (10:1 compression ratio). Its power output is 95 HP (70 kW). The MK1 Swift GTi was available in European and Asia-Pacific markets. North American markets only received the 1.0 L version which were sold as the Chevrolet Sprint, Pontiac Firefly, and the Suzuki Forsa. Both the carbureted and turbocharged models were available In North America.

Suzuki Swift MK2 (1989 - 1991)

The MK2 series introduced an entirely redesigned vehicle, with a new curvier body style, four wheel independent strut suspension and numerous other improvements. The Swift GTi had an improved G13B engine which now featured hollow camshafts, stronger web casting on the engine block, a better flowing intake manifold (the prior generation intake manifold had its shape compromised to to fit into the engine bay), and its ECU now had electronic control over ignition timing. It now put out 100 HP (74 kW) of power. The Swift GTi also featured all wheel disc brakes. The JDM Cultus GTi featured a G13B engine that had higher compression pistons (11:1 compression ratio), tubular exhaust headers, a tubular intake manifold, larger camshafts and a reprogrammed ECU. Some models of the Cultus GTi were also available with all-wheel drive. The engine in the Cultus had a power output of 113 hp (84 kW). Due to a lawsuit involving Volkwagen America regarding the usage of GTi, the GTi name was discontinued after 1989 in North America, future North American Swift models then used the name GT.

Suzuki Swift MK3 (1992 - 1994/1996/1999)

The MK3 series continued with the bodystyle of the MK2, but changed the style of the bumpers, and updated the interior. GT/GTi versions were equipped with larger swaybars, and the camshafts were now solid. Power output remained the same. Production of the MK3 Swift for the North American market ended in 1994. In Europe, the MK3 series was known as "MK2 - Phase 2", the European market ceased production in 1996. In Australia, the MK3 series continued production until 1999. In 2001, the Suzuki Swift was no longer sold in North America.

Suzuki Swift MK4 (2004-present)

A new Suzuki Swift was announced at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2004. This Swift is intended as competition in the European B segment with the likes of Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto. Available with 1.3 and 1.5-liter engines, the new Swift is Suzuki's new "global car", to be produced in Hungary, India, China and Japan. 3- and 5-door bodies are available.

The design of the new Swift was previewed on the Concept S and Concept S2 concept cars at auto shows, in the years leading up to its launch. It's proportions & essential shape are unmistakely like the (BMW) Mini, due to the blacked-out A-pillars and bumper-car stance.

Despite Suzuki's long-standing relationship with General Motors (which itself had prompted the development of the very first Swift), the new Swift appears to be entirely Suzuki, and not based on the GM Gamma platform. The prestigious british Autocar magazine has given the new Swift a favourable 4/5 stars in road test, badging it a "thoroughly impressive all-rounder". Also has recived a rating of 4 stars out of 5 in the EURO ncap crash tests.