Nissan 350Zish tail lamps clearly visible

Going by our Maruti’s standards, the present generation Swift, which was launched in September 2004 at the Paris Auto Salon (launched on May 18th 2005 in India) could be sold alongside the all new model in late 2010. Such a thing will not happen (I am trusting Maruti entirely on this) and the all new Swift will be launched late next year. This model also has the best model life – around 6 years, the shortest for Maruti.

The reason is this – The present generation Swift has exceeded all expectations with its spectacular looks. In India, it was the first premium hatchback that actually gave everybody a big car feel. Infact, I would call it Maruti’s flagship in India. Not even the SX4 or the Grand Vitara have injected so much fun and excitement to the Maruti/Suzuki brand. Going by the Kizashi’s reviews, I think it will serve as Suzuki’s next big thing. Just watch this one.

So, this model is all important for Maruti and Suzuki and they have taken a safe route by building on the looks of the present car. These spy pictures from Germany reveal an almost identical shape but is more rounded and look closely and you observe that it is slightly longer wheelbase than the outgoing car thereby addressing space issues for the rear passengers. We can also get a glimpse of the Nissan 370Z inspired tail lights. From the previous spy pictures, we have come to know that it will have a Kizashi inspired front grille which will look great on the Swift.

Powertrains are likely to remain identical with upgrades to take it through the new emission norms. The Indian made 1.3L G13B engine will be replaced by the all new 1.2L K series engine from the Ritz. This engine, though short on power, is very driveable and owners (like me) will definitely miss the free revving all aluminium 1300cc. We hope Maruti tweaks this engine to make it sporty to suit the Swift’s character. The 1.3DDiS will also be tweaked to meet Bharat Stage4. Also available abroad is the 1.6L VVT with 125bhp for the Swift Sport. Maruti has not brought the Sports model but looking at the growing premium hatchback segment, the next-gen must definitely come to India in sports iteration as well. Japanese get 4WD but none of the other countries get it. Expect a CVT to come up as well.

Suzuki’s latest hybrid system is expected to get into production as well. It has a range of 12 miles on battery power and would be very helpful in peak-hour traffic. Enjoy the pictures till the car is revealed!

Update:- Now Spotted A Three Door Variant Too!!

Update (11/06/2010) :- Now Launched Officially

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