Suzuki Swift SZ4 Dualjet

Even the most basic of city cars will quite often be offered with enough engine variations and trim levels to fill a football pitch.

Not so, Suzuki, who like to keep things simple. The latest generation of its best-selling Swift supermini has only ever been offered with one petrol engine, unless you opted for the more powerful Swift Sport.

Indeed, Suzuki even scrapped a diesel offering because of poor demand.

So the arrival of a new engine to complement the evergreen 1.2-litre petrol powerplant came as something of a surprise.

The new similarly-sized petrol unit incorporates Suzuki’s latest technology, called Dualjet, that utilises twin fuel injectors for improved fuel economy.

It delivers a claimed 65.7mpg combined fuel consumption, an increase of 9.2mpg or 16 per cent on the regular version, and reduces CO2 emissions to 99g/km, meaning that these Swift models are exempt from car tax.

Suzuki's mathematicians have figured out that the fewer trips to the fuel pumps and zero tax will equate to a saving of up to £175 per year for an average mileage owner.

The downside is that there is a £500 premium to pay for the Dualjet engine, and you can only have one is you opt for the top-of-the-range SZ4 trim.

The maximum power output is 90PS versus 94PS for the current petrol engine with a slightly increased torque figure of 120Nm at 4,400rpm versus 118Nm at 4,800rpm. Other modifications include slight alterations to gear ratios for greater flexibility on the road, and the addition of Engine Auto Stop Start.

So is there a great deal of difference in the way it drives. The short answer is no.

As you might expect from the figures, There's a slightly more torquey feel because the torque arrives lower in the rev range , and a barely noticeable drop in power, but as the Swift gets into its stride your mind drifts to the maths rather than the performance.

The important thing is that the Dualjet version takes nothing away from the fun element that has become a Swift trademark and if anything makes the car feel more relaxed and willing.

Whichever engine you choose, you will find the Swift a most enjoyable urban car that not only comes with a high level of equipment but also outstanding reliability.

For instance, where else would you find a car in this price bracket that offers DAB radio, i-Pod connection, USB port and CD player.

SZ4 trim also comes with a simple to use navigation system which gives speed limit alerts to those too eager with their right foot On the outside, there's the appearance of LED running lights that give it extra presence.

Available in three grades, SZ2, SZ3 and SZ4, the Swift is priced from £8,999 for the SZ2 three-door.

In addition to seven airbags, the SZ2 has front electric windows, remote central locking with deadlocks, MP3/WMA compatible CD tuner with USB port and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. The SZ3 specification adds air-conditioning and alloy wheels.

The SZ4 also adds rear electric windows, keyless ignition, Bluetooth, cruise control and auto headlights.

And the latest Warranty Direct survey shows that Suzuki’s renowned reputation for reliability has again been reinforced. Suzuki were in second place overall across 37 manufacturers this year.

Global sales of Swift have now passed the four million mark since launch in 2004. Launched in the UK in May 2005; more than 90,000 Swifts have been sold and now account for around 30 per cent of the UK sales mix.

Customers can buy a Swift with 4x4 capability, but for the vast majority of buyers it will remain a simple choice between the two engines and three trim levels.

Simple maths might well determine whether you choose the regular version of the 1.2-litre engine or opt for the Dualjet.

Suzuki Swift SZ4 Dualjet
Price: £12,699
Engine: 1.3-litre four cylinder Dualjet petrol producing 90PS
Transmission: Five speed manual
Performance: 0 to 62mph in 12.3 seconds; top speed 102.5mph
Economy: 65.7mpg combined
CO2 emissions: 99g/km