The cute little Suzuki Swift lineup is being revised
in Australia, with the introduction of the Swift GL Navigator manual. It’s set
to arrive in dealerships in October. Previously only available with a
six-speed automatic in GL Navigator form, the manual version comes in as the
new entry model of the range. It replaces the GL manual (non Navigator). As
such, it means it is now the most affordable Swift and is being pitched as the
best value proposition in the light car class.
The GL Navigator, as the name suggests, comes with
in-built sat-nav as standard. This alone helps the Swift cut through the
competition as a lot of the rivals are not featured with this technology as
standard. In the Swift the system is incorporated into a full touch-screen
multimedia interface.
Other standard features include alloy wheels,
daytime running lights, and a rear-view camera. All models are rated five stars
for safety under ANCAP’s testing protocol, and all models come with Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto for added convenience.
Under the bonnet the GL is powered by a 1.2-litre
naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces a mighty 90 hp and 120 Nm.
This engine, as you might expect, is very economical. With the manual the
official average consumption is stamped at just 4.6L/100km, while the auto is
rated at 4.8L/100km.
Pre-orders have begun for the new variant, with
prices starting at AUD 16,990 drive-away (up AUD 1000 from the non-Navigator GL
manual predecessor).
