1995-2001 Suzuki Swift: Road Test

Cornering grip remains modest, with lots of body lean. Still, a Swift maneuvers easily around town and can be fun to drive, especially with manual shift. Road, wind, and mechanical noise also are troublesome. Step on the gas and you get more sound than progress. Manual shift provides acceptable acceleration, but an automatic transmission slows things down considerably. Gas mileage remains a virtue. Considering the Swift's modest exterior dimensions, interior space is impressive. Leg room is adequate and head room generous in the front bucket seats. Two folks in back have adequate leg and head space, too, unless they're more than medium-size in stature. Getting in and out of the back seat is a battle, however, and the seat itself is firm and flat. Tall windows and slim roof pillars give the driver great visibility all around. A simple dashboard layout puts controls just where they're easy to see and reach.

Value for the Money
If low price is your top priority, a Swift (and its Metro counterpart) are worth considering. Even so, a larger, more substantial car could be a better bet in the end.