Spotted: New Maruti Swift tested on roads

Following an online leak, a prototype of the new Maruti Swift (Suzuki Swift in international markets) has been spotted testing on public roads for the first time. The test mule is heavily disguised with black cloak but one can easily make out the basic shape.

The placement of the headlamps and grille conforms to the new design which was revealed by the leaked images. The car retains its instantly recognizable basic shape but the front and rear fascias have been revamped. The new face adopts fresh projector headlamps (possibly with LED daytime running lights), a sporty hexagonal grille and a sharp bumper with fog lamp enclosures.

In profile, the sheet metals undergo reskinning but the tight-fitting roof has been retained more or less as it is. The rear fascia gets evolutionary revisions such as tweaked windshield, LED taillights and hatch door.

The most significant visual change comes from the interior design. The new dashboard has nothing in common with the current hatchback. It adopts a modern styling, a touchscreen infotainment system and exterior color coordinated bits. Given that the Baleno is on offer for people who are looking for more interior space, we expect the new Swift to continue with its compact urban-friendly dimensions.

To be based on the new global compact platform, the new Maruti Swift for India is expected to offer new petrol engines (most likely to include a turbocharged BoosterJet unit) and a homegrown diesel engine with displacement in the vicinity of 1.5-litre.

The new Maruti Swift is expected to make its world premiere somewhere in the later part of 2017. Undoubtedly, India will be one of the key target markets.

This article has first appeared in Rushlane.com