EV Preview: 2025 Production Model Revealed
Suzuki, a distinguished maker of small cars, recently displayed their newest Swift Concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Conclave. This demonstrative model offered a peek at what could be in store for the coming version of this hatchback. Despite the fact that Suzuki products are scarcely seen in the US, and many Americans may not be too excited about these humble-sized cars (though they do provide for some jolly times behind the wheel!), is it possible to obverse any discernible comparisons between this and the Mini Cooper Hardtop?
In terms of its design, the Swift model takes much of its features from the current-generation version presented in places like India, Southeast Asia, and Japan. The most substantial alteration and the one which makes it most reminiscient of a Mini, is the new hood shutdown line that follows precisely the contour of the shoulder line and creates an arched opening in the hood.
Outfitted with darkened windows and a roof along with its prominent front grille, the only thing setting it apart from the exact design of the up-to-date Mini is its angular headlights.
The rear of this notion really pursues a bold visual effect due to its enlarged ‘haunches’, which are somewhat broader compared to the front portions. Though, it has slightly fewer Mini-esque cues because the roofline is dissimilar and the full-width black logo bar is absent. Though, the low-mounted black bumper design considerably looks familiar.
As opposed to the Mini’s emblematic circular interior, the hatchback concept presents a more commonplace dashboard design composed of a floating-type touch screen, analog gauges and mechanical buttons for the air conditioning system. The inside cabin is no-nonsense as most of its surfaces are either padded in textile or produced with hard plastics. This comes as no surprise when considering that this same vehicle is also sold in different terrains as a more cost-friendly alternative to the elegant Honda Fit.
No information about power or torque has been released for this concept yet, but it will keep its front-wheel drive as we wish to see Suzuki persisting in their lightweight Heartect platform. It looks like it is ready for production, even including classic rear door handles that take the place of the hidden, C-pillar-mounted handles in the present model. In due course, there should also be a Swift Sport variant arriving.
The most recent rendition of the Swift Sport is equipped with a 1.4 Liter four cylinder engine, yielding 138 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque. While these figures may not seem outstanding, particularly when compared to the 218 hp of the current Mini JCW Hardtop, it takes into account the mere 2,138 lbs of its own weight, which is significantly less than the almost 3,000 pounds of the not miniature JCW.
So, what are the opinions? Is this new Swift from Wish a Mini Hardtop indeed or has something fresh and unique been created by the Japanese?