Suzuki Swift Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.3 GL 3d (2006/56) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Car gives a great image, small and cheap but with a good driver at the wheel it can run rings around virtually all the competition.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
My swift is much loved by others, my friends have all commented on its neat design inside and out, despite its low price tag. My dad (Who drives a Ford Focus ST3 and heavily tuned VX220) commented that he was amazed how well it accelerated and handled as a cheap small engined hatchback.
Would you buy this car again and why?
As a first/Cheap/practical car I would definitely have another swift, though as a petrol head and speed freak , I'd have the Swift Sport from the same line.
What are you likely to buy next?
As much as I love the swift, Im after something quite a bit faster, so my plan for the next car is a Renault Clio Cup Sport.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£2,400
When did you buy the car?
November 2014
Did you get a good deal and why?
Got a brilliant deal due to lack of service history and modifications on the car.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Heard it was fun to drive, quicker than competitors.
What was the dealer like?
Negotiated nicely.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Very good drive. For such a small engine it is surprisingly quick in the lower gears, with a faster 0-60 time than any competing Clio's, fiestas, ka's, Ibiza's etc. Handling is impressive with fantastic grip which allows for high speed cornering, responds very well to high rev's due to its excellent japanese engine. Has no problem at all in reaching Motorway/Dual carrigeway speeds quickly.
What's it like to park?
Very easy to park, power steering is great, combined with a small turning circle makes for stress free parking. Even as a new driver I had no problems manoeuvring the car into my narrow driveway opening and then slotting between another car and a large hedge!
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
In general has been fantastic , squeaks a bit in the wet/cold until it warms up. Had 1 dodgy alternator belt but other than that have not had a single problem in 6 months of driving (The car is 9 years old and has done 65k miles).
What's most practical about your car?
Decent sized boot, plenty of space in front and back, great little run about.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Stereo controls on the steering wheel are excellent as you can adjust volume and change tracks without taking your hands off the wheel.
