This car goes to prove that dynamite can be crammed into a small package. A lot of dynamite.

The new Suzuki Swift Sport pumps up the power of the Swift that we’ve come to know on SA roads by a meaty 30kw. Admittedly, up in Jozi where it was launched, I didn’t get to experience the best this car has to offer, you’ll have to go to the coast for that.

This isn’t a criticism, it’s just life. The car feels like it had more pull than power up here on the Highveld.

Other changes from the previous, slower Swift come in the form of a 30kgs weight saving, despite having a lot more equipment on board. Standard, for example, you get automatic air conditioning, electric power steering, electric operation for the windows and side mirrors, six-speaker sound system including a CD player with MP3 support, USB port and remote keyless entry and starting.

30kgs might not seem like a lot, but when you’re tossing it around the Zwartkops go-kart track at whatever speed you want, it makes a difference. Couple this to the 10mm lower ground clearance, and you really are driving a road legal go-kart.

The Swift Sport houses the M16A engine, Suzuki’s 1.6-litre, 100kw and 160Nm monster. What with all the weight they’ve saved and the design changes, they’ve managed to squeeze out an 8% reduction in Co2 and improve the economy by 6% to 6.5L/100km.

Performance specs are not shabby either, 8.7 seconds till 100km/h and a top speed of 195 km/h.

Looks-wise the new Swift has had some adjustments too. There’s an all new front end and grille mesh that improves airflow to the engine and they said something about the rear spoiler making the car look a little longer. Say what you like, there’s no getting away from the fact the there’s a long vertical line chopping the rear end off and minimal boot space.

Inside though, the cloth seats have received a generous amount of sporty red stitching, and the “Sport” logo on the headrests. Very nice.

Big shout outs for the small car include an ESP and traction control button, rarities in small cars like this, and a USB and 3.5mm jack that even Stevie Wonder could find. Luxury car manufacturers could take a page out of the Suzuki Swift’s book.

The Suzuki Swift Sport 1600 comes to you at R213 900 with a 3yr 100 000km.

Would you buy one? Comments!