1997 Suzuki Swift GTi review from Australia and New Zealand
"A stroppy, fun, hot hatch"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The Swift has given excellent reliability.
The engine uses more oil than average.
The cam belt needed replacing at 65000km.
A loose engine mount had to be rectified at 66000 km.
The brakes have had an annoying squeal.
Various parts of body trim have become rather loose.
General comments?
The Swift has brilliant straight line performance. A very rev happy little engine.
The power to weight ratio is excellent.
It is an economical car, hampered only by a small fuel tank.
Due to firmer suspension, 15 inch alloy wheels and Michelin SX GT tyres it is a great handler.
Well weighted power steering makes the car nimble when changing direction.
Four wheel discs makes the Swift stop just as quickly.
The Swift does however have a lot of wheel spin and torque steer.
The cabin is rather dated, plastic and flimsy. The standard sport seats are comfortable and supportive.
The Momo steering wheel and gearshift knob do brighten the cabin.
The body is rather tinny and there are a few rattles.
A terrific first performance car.
Recommended reviews
| Fairly reliable, fairly economical car for a single person. |
|
| Great little car, quick, cheap to run and reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 Twin Cam 16v EFi Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 36000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 70000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 15th March, 2003 |