Since its launch in 2005 Maruti Suzuki Swift rules the premium hatchback segment in the Indian car market. Other manufacturers haven’t yet managed to touch its supremacy or procure the sales figure that it does. Every year Maruti Suzuki Swift sells around 1L units, and Maruti constantly upgrades the car with fresh features-depending upon trends. Early last year they have introduced Swift with K-series engine-that meets BS4 standards in India. Now this week they chucked out the exiting version of Swift and brought in the new Swift 2011-2012 model.

So what are the changes/differences in new Maruti Swift?

Though not much perceivable at first look, the changes in the Suzuki Swift new model starts from the exterior design. The front and back headlamps are diagonally extended towards the edges. This styling is clearly visible when looked from the sides. Maruti Swift 2011-2012 is longer and wider than the old model and has a larger air dam, rear and front bumpers. The roof top antenna is moved toward the back, and the rear-view mirror is now equipped with indicator lights. Another attraction is the 10 spoke 15″ alloy wheel that ultimately makes the car more sporty and stylish. As shown below, the boot opener found in old Swift has been removed, and the position is now reserved for fixing number plate.

Everything takes a big leap when you move inside new Maruti Swift. It’s not at all like the old model and feels like more premium and quality package. Neat plastic finish, fabrics and dashboard controls- all makes it a good competitor for the Hyundai i20, which is known for its premium interiors. The Suzuki logo in the steering is positioned up with chrome side lines, and you can also find audio controls embedded to it. New Swift 2011-2012 models have a better air conditioner with an automatic climate control feature- available on top variants. Rounded AC vents have been replaced with smaller, rectangular ones.

The new Maruti Swift is come with a better audio system-as you can see it on the dashboard it’s well positioned with USB and AUX-IN connectivity. There will be  four speakers in the audio package with two tweeters.  Another useful insert in the new model is the multifunctional display fitted just behind the steering wheel, in between the dials.  In the rear, there is more leg room-but the boot space has been reduced to accommodate this change and external design.

Changes in new Maruti Suzuki Swift petrol and diesel engines:

The existing 1.2 K-series engine has been tuned to deliver additional power and better mileage. As per Maruti, the new engine in Swift is equipped with a program controlled variable valve timing technology. The result is better ride quality and acceleration, fewer emissions, vibrations and improved mileage of 18.6 kmpl. Swift 2011-2012 petrol model now delivers a power of 87 ps (6000 rpm) and maximum torque of 114 Nm( 4000 rpm) which is more than 85 PS and 113 Nm @ 4500rpm provided by old model. There aren’t many changes in the Diesel engine used in new Swift. It’s a slightly upgraded version of the old 1. 3L DDis  engine that was developed from Fiat multi-jet series. However, the overall mileage of the car has improved to 23 kmpl due to the weight reduction and changes in power delivery control.