Driving the relatively new Suzuki Swift Hybrid five-door hatchback – available in three models, I drove the top-line GLX. The latest Suzuki Swift now in its fourth generation comes only in hybrid form – combining a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with what’s described as a mild hybrid system – a 2.3kW integrated starter generator and a 12-volt lithium-ion battery. The GLX grade at $29,490 drive-away sharply priced and highly equipped, with CVT transmission and manual shift paddles, larger 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control air, and wireless phone charging. The latest Swift looks little different to its predecessor. Despite the hybrid tag there is no EV-only motoring, this is predominately a petrol car with minimal electric motor torque – as such the drive feels little different to a pure petrol model – the three-cylinder engine has a distinct hum to it while with an all- up weight of just 957kg the Swift GLX automatic is a particularly nimble small car around town. I managed 5.3L/100km and whilst that’s impressive it does need a diet of dearer 95-octane petrol. A pleasant small hatchback in many ways, well priced, highly equipped with safety and driving technology but some elements of this latest Suzuki Swift hybrid left me thinking it was becoming a little dated. I’m David Berthon.

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