New 136 HP Suzuki Swift Sport To Launch In 2012

Suzuki brought the Swift S-Concept for all to see in Geneva this spring, leaving us to wonder if the Japanese carmaker had a sporty version of the current generation hatch to carry the torch from the old Swift Sport. For now the answer seems to be “yes”, as recent reports indicate a successor is coming as early as next year.

Unfortunately, the brand hasn’t got round to fixing the Swift Sport’s main problem, a lack of power.  According to a rumor the next Swift generation will get an increase in power of around 22 percent. This means about 152 HP, the 2012 model will only have 136 HP, available from the four-cylinder 1.6 litre engine which will be connected to a manual six-speed transmission, with an automatic version also available.

The concept presented in Geneva featured a large rear wing, new headlights and rear lighting clusters.  It has also been brought closer to the ground. At the interior, designers included bucket seats, a new steering wheel, different instrumentation and carbon fiber trim. Some of the biggest changes over the previous generation cover the design of the exhaust tips and the air intakes.

“In Europe the Volkswagen Polo GTI and the Ford Fiesta ST will be the rivals for SWift Sport, which at present is undergoing testing at the Nurburgring”, said Peter Bondarchuk, spokesman of Suzuki Europe.

According to the Suzuki’s officials, the new model will be presented sometimes next year.

Source: Autoevolution