New Safer Suzuki Swift Wins Fuel Economy Contest

NEW SAFER SUZUKI SWIFT WINS FUEL ECONOMY CONTEST

The new generation Suzuki Swift world car is already proving a winner in the fuel economy and safety stakes.

One of the first of the new Swift five-door hatchbacks won its class and posted a remarkably result in the recent 2010 MPG Marathon rally run in England.

A 1.2-litre dual variable valve timing version of the Swift driven by journalist Dave Moss and driving instructor Mike Hull averaged 4.1 litres/100 kilometres (68.1 miles per gallon).

This was an improvement of 20.5 per cent over the official fuel consumption figure of 5.0 litres/100 km (56.5 miles per gallon).

The class-winning Suzuki covered the 611 kilometre drive from Stratford upon Avon over a mixture of roads designed to reflect normal daily driving conditions.

The achievement came within days of the European New Car Assessment Programme (EuroNCAP) announcing that the new model Swift has been awarded a 5 Star rating for crash safety, the highest possible level.

EuroNCAP conducts independent car safety tests that are backed by seven European governments, the European Commission and motoring and consumer organisations in every European Union country.

The Swift scored 94 per cent for adult occupant protection, 82 per cent for child safety, 62 per cent for pedestrian safety and 71 per cent for the provision of safety assistance devices.

This gave an overall total of 83 per cent, exceeding the 75 per cent level required to achieve the 5 Star rating.

With an increased track, longer wheelbase and the use of high tensile steel and tailored blanks to achieve strength without the penalty of added weight, the new Swift is majoring in small car safety.

A stronger yet lighter impact absorbing bodyshell, whiplash mitigating front seats for extra protection in a rear impact accident and an electronic stability programme are among the car’s many safety features.

The new model is to be built in Japan, Hungary, India and China, and confirms Suzuki’s solid reputation in compact car design.

“The new Swift is one of the safest and most economical small cars while improving on interior room and style,” said Tom Peck, General Manager of Marketing for Suzuki New Zealand Ltd.

“There is increased occupant protection with the availability of seven air bags, including a newly adopted knee air bag,” he said.

“The British economy run showcased Suzuki’s commitment to producing fuel efficient, cleaner cars with low emissions.”

When the all-new design arrives in New Zealand early next year, it replaces the ever-green Swift which has been the nation’s top-selling supermini small car for more than four years.

Full details and specifications will be announced closer to the launch date.

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