Suzuki Swift Hatchback (2010 - 2017) 1.2 SZ4 3d (2010/60) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Like to be a bit different - you just don't see many new shape Swifts on the road, which is such a shame! It's quite a cheeky, 'boy' car, with decent alloys and rear privacy glass. It has personality - and a different one to a SZ2 5-door which looks a little 'Granny'. A lot of non-car people think it's a Mini.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it. My partner isn't sure of the styling, but loves the interior.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. But only because I like to chop and change cars regularly. But I'll keep this one for a good while, and will definately recommend it to family and friends.

What are you likely to buy next?

Who knows!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

July 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

AMAZING deal from a Mazda dealer. Still can't get over it. Saved ££££s over book price. And yes, it is HPi clear!

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted something cheap to run, handsome, good to drive and a little bit different to regular superminis.

What was the dealer like?

Brilliant. Pleasant to negotiate with, friendly and accommodating - Mack Mazda in Essex.

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic. I've owned a latest shape Mini Cooper and this Swift is right up there with it for handling - yet without the harsh ride (still not exactly cosseting though..). I had concerns, as this is my first sub 1.6/1.8 engine in a while, but it's nippy, more than adequate (unless the car is full to the brim) and has a lovely sporty note to it. Gears are accurate and visibility is excellent.

What's it like to park?

A doddle. Paintwork is a little thin though so one of my parking mishaps has left its mark...

Have you had any problems with the car?

I am very fussy with cars and this is my 13th in 10 years. And possibly the best all-rounder. A few niggles have occurred though which put a question-mark over quality - a noticeable squeak under low range acceleration from a standstill (local Suzuki dealer failed to cure after a visit) and a irritating rattly glovebox (yet to investigate further). The iPod cable hole has its moments, but simply unplugging and re-trying does the trick. The cruise has turned itself off once or twice with no input from me. Heating sometimes is far too hot considering the setting and readout on the display. General reliability is 100% though.

What's most practical about your car?

Interior is roomy and it's an excellent size for, and has great visibility for the city. Travellers always comment on the comfort and how much they like the interior. Often travel on long journeys in it too. Boot is rather small but not an issue for me.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Keyless entry/start, auto climate control, iphone intergration, handsfree..... It's stacked with kit!