Hybrid popularity is on the rise, as Chasing Cars founder Tom Baker takes one of the most affordable hybrid options on the market, the new Suzuki Swift hatch, for a deep dive to see if the cost savings truly stack up.

But is the Swift Hybrid a real hybrid at all?

Recently launched, the Swift Hybrid takes on the likes of the Volkswagen Polo, the Toyota Yaris, the Mazda 2 and the MG3 in the affordable city runabout segment. Its 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assistance outputs a modest 61kW and 112Nm. Our top-spec GLX clocks in at $29,490.

Price, servicing, running costs: does the new Swift look rosy on the balance sheets? Or is this classically cheap and cheerful five-door now priced itself out of pragmatic buyer consideration? Even if the hatch proves itself to remain one of the funnest punts reasonable money can buy.


Time codes:
0:00 - Intro
0:34 - Mild hybrid
1:22 - Pricing
2:22 - GLX spec
3:50 - Interior details
5:12 - Row two
6:26 - Design
6:55 - Boot space
7:30 - Running costs
9:34 - On road
10:15 - A real hybrid?
11:17 - Engine
12:35 - Handing
13.58 - Shortcomings
15:18 - Ride comfort
16:08 - Safety
17:01- Verdict


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