Suzuki Swift Hybrid & Suzuki Swift Sport to launch this year

According to a Japanese report, the Suzuki Swift hybrid variant and Suzuki Swift Sport will launch in Japan this year. Note that the hybrid variant should not be confused with the mild-hybrid SHVS variant on sale in Japan, Australia and Europe.

The hybrid variant is reported to source its powertrain from the Suzuki Solio Hybrid, which combines a 1.2L Dualjet petrol engine that produces 91 PS and 118 Nm of torque, paired with an MGU (motor generator unit). In the new Solio, transmission services are taken care by a 5-speed AGS (AMT), instead of a CVT. Unlike the SHVS variant, the Swift Hybrid could drive in full electric mode at low speeds for a limited distance.

The Swift Sport is reported to pack the lighter and more powerful 1.4L Boosterjet petrol engine that replaces the 1.6L N/A VVT petrol motor. In the Suzuki Vitara S, the same engine produces 140 hp and 220 Nm of torque. Thanks to the lightweight HEARTECT platform, the Swift Sport is reported to weigh 870 kg and will have a better power to weight ratio than the Toyota GT-86. It's unclear if a 6-speed manual gearbox will continue to be offered, or the car will be an automatic-only variant.