News Release

Thumbs Up for Suzuki Swift Strength & Safety

01 August 2008
The Suzuki Swift has been ranked among the top cars in its class for safety by the authoritative independent EuroNCAP crash test programme.

With sales of the latest generation Swift topping one million the model that quickly became the most popular small car in New Zealand is also one of the safest in the supermini category.   

The popular hatchback scored four out of a maximum five points in the EuroNCAP crash test, and has been rated highly for overall vehicle safety.

As a pathfinder for a radical programme of new Suzuki vehicles, the Swift was largely developed in Europe and incorporates the latest technologies in safety and security.

It has one of the widest bodies in the small car class, a long wheelbase and was tested in all aspects of protection against front and side impact, pedestrian contact and child safety.

Suzuki engineers adopted shock-absorbing structures, notably in the bonnet, wheel guards, wipers and front bumper, assisting in the protection of pedestrians in the event of contact and lessening the severity of injuries.  As a result, the Swift achieves three out of four stars in pedestrian protection, the highest equal result of any small car sold in New Zealand.

A collapsible steering column and leg mitigating brake and clutch pedals shield occupants from impact forces. Body crumple zones also assist in overall driver and passenger safety.

Front seat belt pre-tensioners and force limiters and energy absorbing trim are also fitted, helping to reduce occupant injury.

Front dual SRS airbags are standard on all models, and additional side and curtain air bags are included in higher specification versions.

“The Swift makes extensive use of high tensile steel and side protection beams to protect occupants from all angles,” said Tom Peck, Marketing Manager of Suzuki New Zealand Limited.

“The car’s reputation has been enhanced by a successful motor sport career which reflects Suzuki’s emphasis on solid engineering,” he said.

Consumers have been attracted to the Swift by its good looks, well-planned interior and great driving manners.

Swift has a distinctive bonnet, flared wheel arches, deep sills, wheels pushed out to each corner and a strong belt-line that flows all the way to the tailgate.

Tight fit and finish of trim, together with high-grade plastics contribute to an overall sense of refinement and quality.

“Add these features, plus the high level of safety and strength, and it’s not difficult to see why Swift is such a popular choice,” said Tom Peck.

Swift has become the biggest selling Suzuki passenger car ever sold in New Zealand, with demand often outstripping supply.