SECOND HAND SENSEBECAUSE OF a limited range, the Suzuki brand name may not be the first to trip off the tongue when looking for a car, but the company has a long history of producing clever small cars.
Its market presence was dull, but this began to change with the latest generation Swift three years ago.
For the first time, Suzuki was able to attract a new audience because of the Swift's rather funky styling. It seemed higher and wider than some competitors, but it was the exterior design and interior finish that made this Suzuki a real contender in the small car segment.
It is an ideal small car - nippy in town, cruises well on longer journeys and it is economical thanks to advanced engine technology. You can get five into it but four is really the optimum, as the rear can be a squeeze.
The cabin finish is much better than in some competitors and the car has extras such as wheel-mounted controls for the radio system. You will also get twin airbags, ABS brakes with brake force distribution and Isofix child seat anchorages.
The Swift has a 1.3-litre engine (there is another sportier version), and is a good all-rounder. What impresses most is the package you get. It is well thought-out and equipped, although the boot is not huge. You can maximise space by folding down the rear seat but that reduces your passenger count. The five-door version is also more practical than the three and easier to re-sell.
The Swift got a four-star rating when crash tested in the Euro NCAP programme.
Reliability is a strong point, but some owners have reported problems with tyres wearing prematurely. There has been one recall for handbrake problems.
A 2006 model with the above mentioned equipment and electric mirrors and windows and with 64,000km is on offer for €10,450. A 2006 model with the same equipment and 30,000km is on offer for €12,950.
STAR RATING:8/10