Suzuki Swift Sport to go turbo

The much-loved Suzuki Swift Sport will switch to a turbocharged engine with its next-generation model.

The new Swift Sport is due to reach the UK by the end of next year following the launch of the new standard Swift supermini in the summer.

Power for the Swift Sport will come from a more potent version of the 138bhp 1.4-litre Boosterjet engine already used in the Suzuki Vitara crossover. This will replace the high-revving 136bhp normally aspirated 1.6-litre engine used in the current car. Expect all of the traits that have given the first two generations of Swift Sport cult status to carry over to the new car, including the engaging handling, impressive body control, slick manual gearbox, subtle bodykit and low kerb weight, which could even drop to less than 1000kg in the next-generation car.

The standard version of the next-generation Swift received an early online debut in March when images of a design concept were leaked. The proportions remain similar to those of the current model, but the design features an altogether sharper and more technical look, with sculpted body sides and a more distinctive treatment for the C-pillars.

The interior of the new Swift was also previewed, With the cabin of the design concept appearing to be much more premium and of a higher quality than that of the current Swift, with improved switchgear and materials and an infotainment screen in the centre console.

In the standard new Swift range, the big news will be the arrival of the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine from the Baleno.

The Swift will not be the next new Suzuki to market, however. The firm’s recent product expansion will continue with a production version of last year’s iM-4 compact SUV concept. This will be the firm’s smallest SUV and sister car to the existing Celerio.

The production version of the new compact SUV is expected at the Paris show later this year before going on sale early next year.