HOT HATCH AWARD FOR SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT YET AGAIN

The Suzuki Swift Sport continues its reputation for scooping awards by securing yet another independent accolade.

Britain’s What Car? Award 2015 for the best hot hatchback costing less than the equivalent of $30,000 has gone to the well equipped Swift Sport for the fourth consecutive year.

Based on a variety of factors, including general running costs, safety and reliability, the award importantly gauges how much fun a car is to drive.

Judges said this sports version of the popular Swift epitomises what a hot hatch should really be about. "It has a 1.6-litre engine that absolutely loves to be revved to within an inch of its life as it produces 100 kW (134 bhp) and 160 Nm (of torque) and scampers along the road at a decent lick," said the judges.

Critics rated the car a favourite Suzuki model, combining a dynamic driving experience coupled with fantastic value for money.

In his review of the 3-door version of the Swift Sport, New Zealand motoring writer David Linklater said the car entertained in a way that was simply indecent for less than $26k. He suggested that if readers did not enjoy driving a Swift Sport, then might he respectfully suggest they did not enjoy driving?

Autocar, the authoritative UK motoring weekly, described the Swift Sport as "a little bundle of joy" and a "pleasingly old-fashioned sort of hot hatchback".

They praised the car’s specially tuned suspension, while retaining good riding qualities with plenty of bump absorption, and the quick response of the steering.

Television’s Top Gear programme presenter Jeremy Clarkson said the Swift Sport was a rare thing - one of only a trio of cars that all three of the Top Gear hosts liked.

"The car has had rave reviews from all the motoring magazines and specialist writers, and now it has got one from me," said Clarkson.

Available with the 6-speed manual transmission or continuously variable transmission (CVT) with steering column paddle controls, the Swift Sport 5-Door range is priced from $27,500, plus on-road costs.

Standard equipment includes sports body kit, 17-inch diameter alloy wheels, supportive sports seats, stainless steel pedal plates, cruise control, climate air conditioning, multi-function steering wheel, keyless entry and push button start and Garmin touch-screen satellite navigation.

In spite of its sporty character providing solid performance, the Swift Sport is also a flexible car, offering excellent fuel economy in a distinctive package. The Suzuki Swift has been the top selling supermini for the last 10 years and the Swift Sport continues as a star in the range.