IT ALWAYS AMUSES me that whenever I get into a new car I spot what seem like dozens of the same model on the road. It’s been no different with our Swift Sport; is my brain more finely tuned to the car, or are there simply more of them on the road?
Well, the current Swift Sport has been on sale for a year now, and Suzuki is pretty pleased with the take-up: it’s sold 1050 of the pocket rockets, beating its sales target. I’m not surprised; in my experience once you’ve driven one you’re hooked. Its edgy and eager looks get you every time, and its sportiness isn’t just skin deep.
However, I’ve noticed a distinct North-South divide when it comes to the Swift. Around London, I’ve clocked a mere handful, although it’s still a treat to see one. Head up the Ml, though, and suddenly it’s like you’re in the middle of a Swift pageant. Suzuki sales figures back this up: 20% of the cars are sold in the North, but just 5% started their lives in London.
Hailing from those parts myself, I like to think this has something to do with no-nonsense Northern taste – and an eye for a bargain.
I suspect the fact that the Swift is so suited to winding rural roads has a part to play; its tight chassis and sweet handling allow it to chew up country miles with such gusto, you can’t fail to smile. People of the South, you’re missing out.