The
Suzuki Swift Sport is the very definition of a hot hatch, with the previous
generation of the car winning accolades for its serious street performance,
bargain pricing and cute styling. Now
the second generation model is about to start tearing up the sales chart, but
sadly, a U.S. launch for the car remains uncertain. Suzuki
has released this sole image of the new car, which will be making its official
world debut next month at the 2011Frankfurt Auto Show before going on sale in
Europe shortly after.
This
new model has a more aggressive look thanks to a low-slung form that gives a
sense of stability and tension, as well as a big front grille and sporty
haunches. The cabin combines barebones sportiness but high-quality look and
feel.
Power
once again comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, with drive going to the
front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Peak output is rated at 134
horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque.
Making
sure the thing handles well is a unique suspension setup tested at the
Nurburgring and containing struts with internal rebound springs. The new Swift
Sport also features a total of seven airbags and electronic stability control.