Suzuki has taken the wraps off its third-generation Swift hatchback – available in three- and five-door body styles – but although the all-new Swift will first hit the UK market this fall, the U.S. launch will face a delay.
Although partnerships between automakers are typically formed in order to reduce costs and help bring products to market sooner, in the case of the Swift, it’s U.S. launch will be anything but that thanks to its big brother: Volkswagen . This delay is the result of an ongoing discussion between Suzuki and VW over product strategy, as both automakers compete for crucial shares in the U.S. market, according to Automotive News.
Another issue being considered is the pricing of the vehicle, particularly in regard to the rising value of the Yen compared to the U.S. dollar. “At the moment, if the exchange rate continues like it is, we couldn’t expect very much profit,” Suzuki spokesman Takuma Mizuyoshi said. “So that’s a concern right now.”
Suzuki Swift Specs
The new Swift is larger than the current car in all dimensions — albeit with the same general styling — growing slightly in length, width and height. Despite its larger overall size, Suzuki says the new car is lighter than before, thanks to the use light-weight high-strength steel in the car’s body construction.
Suzuki will replace the car’s current 1.3L with a new 1.2L unit featuring Dual VVT technology. Although smaller than the current engine, the new 1.2L is actually slightly more powerful than the outgoing 1.3L, generating about 95 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque. The new mill is also more efficient than the current engine, achieving 56.6mpg on Britain’s combined cycle.
Suzuki also plans to launch a 1.3L diesel option in early 2011, with that engine expect to achieve an impressive 67.3mpg.
References
1.’Suzuki delays U.S. launch…’ view
