Suzuki Australia wants more diverse models, including sportier Swift

Suzuki Australia general manager Michael Pachota says he wants to fill the Swift Sport-shaped hole in the brand’s local lineup, as well as bolster the wider range with different body styles and powertrains.

The Swift Sport, based on the previous-generation hatch, has been out of production for Australia since revised safety regulations regarding autonomous emergency braking (AEB) came into effect earlier this year.

There has been no word from Suzuki globally on on a new Swift Sport based on the new-generation mild-hybrid hatch, and Suzuki’s local division says it’s in the dark as well.

“We haven’t been told anything at all. We get surprised from time to time by Suzuki Japan,” Mr Pachota told CarExpert.

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Above: Suzuki Swift Sport generations (L-R): First, second, third, and 2025 Swift Champions concept

“They’re very confidential when it comes to their development, and we only get certain visions based on, for example, evolutions of product sometimes, other bits and pieces. Swift Sport is possibly a hot topic globally, I just await any news on it.”

The Swift Sport is a simple vehicle in principle. Take an otherwise affordable, economical hatch, make it look a little tougher, fit a more potent engine, and keep prices attainable while you’re at it.

This was certainly the case for the outgoing third-generation Swift Sport. It featured a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 103kW of power and 230Nm of torque, the option of a six-speed manual or automatic, and started at $29,990 before on-roads.

This was only $200 pricier than the 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder found in the Swift GLX Turbo, which had just 82kW and 160Nm. At the bottom of the range was a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 66kW and 120Nm, priced from $23,490 before on-roads.