Suzuki Swift Hatchback (2005 - 2011) 1.5 GLX 5d (2006/06) 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?
I hope that we can buy the best car for the budget we set ourselves
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Generally very positive, although it doesn't have an immediately recognisable badge. A number of them have made the "Japanese take on a MINI" comment.
Would you buy this car again and why?
If as we expect we continue to need two cars for the future, then we'd certainly consider it.
What are you likely to buy next?
Larger car - something in the Golf/Passat class to replace our main car.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchise
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£4,990
When did you buy the car?
March 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes - a good deal compared to recommended main dealer list price, and the dealer included a service, tyres, tax, MOT and fuel as well
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Need for a second car due to being repeatedly let down by public transport
What was the dealer like?
Very good and helpful, except perhaps for an overlong attempt to sell us additional services to increase their own margins, eg gap insurance
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Very good - it works well on a mix of local roads on my commute and on the motorway - the big engine for a small car means it doesn't feel vulnerable. Handling is extremely enjoyable, especially the initial turn-in for bends. Ride can occassionally be crashy over speed bumps and pot-holes, and it can sometimes be a bit sensitive to cross-winds on motorways, but it's a small and light car and neither is a problem
What's it like to park?
Very easy - it has excellent visibilty and the wind mirrors are very large
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No, although it is early days yet
What's most practical about your car?
Excellent visibility, good handling for some twisty roads on my commute
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
I always thought it was a gimmick, but keyless entry as installed on the Swift is extremely useful