Suzuki Swift IV (AZ) (2017 – 2023)

Reliability score : 9.2/10

The fourth-generation Suzuki Swift (Type AZ), launched in 2017 and facelifted in 2020, is based on the lightweight Heartect platform. This architectural change allowed it to drop below the one-ton mark (often around 850-900 kg), thus offering agile, dynamic road handling and among the lowest fuel consumptions on the market. Positioned as a versatile B-segment city car, it stands out for its attractive price/equipment ratio and the widespread integration of mild-hybrid technology (SHVS) in Europe. The 2020 facelift primarily updated the powertrains to meet Euro 6d-Full standards (replacing K12C/K14C with K12D/K14D) and slightly revised the grille. It is a model renowned for its exceptional mechanical reliability, although the perceived quality of interior materials remains basic.

✅ Strengths

Exceptional overall mechanical reliability (K-Series petrol engines).
Extremely low fuel consumption (often < 5L/100km in real-world driving for the 1.2).
Agile and fun road handling thanks to its featherlight weight (Heartect platform).
Very competitive price/equipment ratio (adaptive cruise control, LED lights, heated seats often standard).
Availability of all-wheel drive (AllGrip), rare in this segment.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Extremely fragile paint (prone to micro-scratches and stone chips).
Quality of interior plastics (hard, scratch easily) and light sound insulation on the highway.
Dated infotainment system (Bosch), sometimes slow or prone to bugs (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto disconnecting).
Boot volume (265 liters) below the category average (Clio, 208).
Tiny fuel tank (37 liters), limiting range on the highway.

🎯 Verdict

The Suzuki Swift IV (AZ) is one of the most reliable and economical city cars on the used market. Devoid of the chronic problems affecting some of its European competitors (such as wet belts), it offers almost total peace of mind mechanically. The 1.2 Dualjet engine (with or without SHVS) is the quintessential sensible choice for daily use, while the Swift Sport (1.4 Boosterjet) offers an unbeatable price/pleasure/reliability ratio. However, one will have to accept compromises on interior finish quality, sound insulation, and paint fragility. A highly recommended purchase.

Common issues

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement Low

🔧 Dès 20 000 km

💶 50 – 300 €

Vérifier les mises à jour logicielles et la réactivité du système.

Usure prématurée des plaquettes et disques de frein avant Medium

🔧 40 000 – 70 000 km

💶 250 – 450 €

Adopter une conduite souple et vérifier l'état des freins régulièrement.

Problèmes mineurs du système mild-hybrid (SHVS) (pour 1.2 Dualjet SHVS) Medium

🔧 50 000 – 100 000 km

💶 200 – 800 €

S'assurer du bon fonctionnement du système SHVS lors de l'achat.

Bruits de suspension avant (coupelles d'amortisseur/silent-blocs) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 600 €

Tester la voiture sur routes dégradées pour détecter des bruits anormaux.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£850 – 1 700
Clutch	£650 – 1 200
Complete brakes	£300 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£400 – 750

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.