Next-gen Maruti Suzuki Swift Sport likely to be launched in India

Maruti Suzuki launched Swift hatchback in 2005 and it has received several facelifts in the past 11 years. Despite being one of the major markets for Suzuki, the Japanese carmaker has never shown any interest in launching the sportier version of the hatchback, the Swift Sport in India citing a not matured enough market for hot hatchbacks. Reports indicate the situation is going to be different when the next generation of the Swift is launched in 2017.

With Indian customers now open to the more performance-oriented cars such as Fiat Abarth Punto and the Volkswagen Polo GTI, Maruti Suzuki is also evaluating to launch next generation Swift Sport, reports Autocar India. Codenamed YSD, the next generation of the Swift Sport will be unveiled alongside the regular Swift.

Next generation Swift is expected to have a more stylish appearance. The hatchback is expected to get a floating roof design similar to the Vitara Brezza. The face will get some nips and tucks in the form of a large hexagonal grille and air intakes. The headlamps will be inspired from the Baleno hatchback with dedicated projector lamps and daytime running lights. These changes along with some sporty add-ons can be expected in the Swift Sport.

The interior of the car is expected to get a new dashboard and flat-bottomed steering wheel. What will make the Swift Sport a monster is the engine.

According to reports, next gen Swift Sport will be powered by a 1.4-litre, direct injection mill from Boosterjet family of turbocharged petrol engines. This engine is expected to belt out 138bhp and 220Nm of torque at 1,500rpm to 4,000rpm mated to six-speed manual gearbox.