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Latest Update 19-3-2012: From just-auto.com: Suzuki is recalling 45,754 Swift models in Japan for checks on possible fuel leaks. In vehicles built between September 2010 and January 2012, a rubber fuel supply hose for a fuel tank could crack due to excessively tightened metal clamps, the carmaker said in a report to the transportation ministry. Suzuki also said it will deal with the same problem on about 47,000 exported Swift cars. The company did not say whether models built outside Japan - such as by Maruti in India - were affected.

Introduction:

The previous generation Suzuki Swift went on sale in 2005 and made quite a name for itself as a stylish, good-to-drive, fun and economical small hatchback. So it's no surprise that it's the same formula for the 2010 Swift. The looks may be familiar, but this is actually an all-new design, with a wider track and longer wheelbase, which makes for more space inside.

Owners of the previous Swift - who on the whole have very good things to say about the car - will be pleased that there's no radical departure from what the old car was doing. What it does get is a refinement in every area. The styling is slightly more sophisticated, there's a bit more room inside and it's safer, featuring seven airbags and earning a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating.

But, most importantly, it's cheaper to run. Although the Swift doesn't dip below the critical 100g/km CO2 figure and qualify for free road tax (as many small diesel hatches are now doing), it does feature one of the cleanest petrol engines on the market in the shape of a 1.2-litre that emits just 116g/km of CO2. The benefit of a clean petrol engine is that you won't find yourself paying a premium for diesel - either on the list price, on the forecourt or for fuel at the pumps.

Out on the road, it retains the character that made the previous Swift such a success. The steering is quick, it relishes corners and has a snappy, pleasing gearchange. In short it's fun - not something that can be said of every small hatchback. What's different this time is that the Swift is a bit more at home at the motorway. It's not quite as raucous, though the gearing could still be better spaced to make it feel a little more relaxed. Overall, it's a great small car that appeals to a wide range of buyers.

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