Maruti Swift Diesel Review

Engine

Swift diesel is powered by 1248cc, 4 cylinder DDis diesel engine that produces a peak power of 75ps at 4000rpm and maximum torque of 190Nm at 2000rpm. Fuel injection happens via common rail direct injection system. Power output for the car of 75ps is not at par with the competition and the high kerb weight (1060 kg) further reduces the acceleration. It takes 13.6 seconds for it to go from 0 – 100kmph which is not comparable to others like Figo. It does not means that the car is less powerful but all the power comes after 2000rpm. That means if you need immediate power on city roads than you might have to change gears in quick succession for the speed boost. Post 2000rpm engine runs smoothly but it is bit noisier and slight noise could filter in the cabin too. The car has a top speed of 152kmph.

Ride and Handling

Only drawback in the ride and handling section of Swift diesel is its slightly heavy steering when compared to other in the segment. But it is also a fact that ZDI is the best car when it comes to quality drive and easy handling. It could take up corners better than its rivals. It is very stable at corners without any leans and is completely grounded. MacPherson strut suspension in front and torsion beam at rear is well integrated to the frame and ensures that none of the bumps and pot holes is felt inside cabin. The suspension is also very silent and no noise comes out of it. All this is there in both at low as well as high speeds. If Maruti fits 90PS engine from Ciaz to this car, it would become a perfect buy thrashing all the rivals out of sight.

Interior

The latest Swift ZDI diesel variant is there in the market now since last 4 years without much of upgrades. Since last 4 years lot of cars in the segment from Hyundai, Ford and Honda have been launched. So in a way the interiors are outdated and needs a refresh now. The only feature that has been added since last facelift is addition of starter button. The all black dashboard might be old but is at par with others and the V shaped console at the center actually adds to its beauty. The switches are of high quality, designed well and give good feel on touch.

The air condition vents are surrounded by silver lining which looks good. The front seats are designed well and person of all sizes would be able to attain good driving position. The driving visibility is great while makes driving fun. At rear too the seating is comfortable but legroom is not that great due to the big front seats. Due to the small boot capacity which stands at mere 204 litres, one cannot keep lot of luggage in them.

Safety and Equipment

The primary noticeable equipment in ZDI includes keyless starter, high quality audio system that has bluetooth, 6 speakers, aux and usb functions. Wing mirrors have turn indicators, automatic climate control, driver’s seat has height adjustment feature, steering mounted audio controls, 60:40 split seat to take in extra luggage, lCD display with enough information to make driving more informed and safe.

Swift diesel ZDI is fitted with Ventilated Disc brakes in front and Drum brakes at rear which works well for the car and stops it whenever required efficiently. It can go from 80 – 0kmph in just under 2.6 seconds. Two airbags in front is standard which further makes the car safe. Reverse parking sensor is also standard and is very good addition especially for new riders.

Mileage

The mileage by ARAI stands at 25.2kmpl of diesel whereas on roads it is slightly different. In actual conditions the Swift ZDI gives an average of 17kmpl on city roads and could go till 19.3kmpl on highways. Comparatively the mileage is not the best but is with par with other premium hatchbacks in India.

Verdict

Buy this car for best ride and handling. Engine is not the most powerful in the segment and it might gasp for pickup when driven with other cars in the segment. After sales service is best and resale value primarily for diesel variant is also super.

2016 Maruti Swift Diesel ZDI Specifications and Prices

Engine
Type: 1.3 litre, 4 cylinder DDis diesel engine
Displacement: 1248cc
Valvetrain: 4 valves/cylinder
Fuel Distribution: Common Rail Direct Injection
Transmission: 5 speed manual
Power: 75PS at 4000rpm
Torque: 190Nm at 2000rpm

Performance
0-100kmph: 13.6s
Top Speed: 152kmph
80-0kmph: 2.6s

Mileage
City: 17kmpl
Highway: 19.3kmpl
Arai: 25.2kmpl

Under the Hood
Suspension(F): MacPherson Strut
Suspension(R): Torsion beam
Brake(F): Disc
Brake(R): Drum
Tyre size: 185/65R15
Type Type: Tubeless

Dimensions
Length x Width x Height(mm): 3850 x 1695 x 1530
Wheelbase: 2430mm
Ground clearance: 170mm
Boot Space: 204l
Kerb Weight: 1060kg