NEW FOR 2008:

Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Suzuki

- Standard engine immobilizer and cloth covering for rear seatbacks
- Exterior colour: Sapphire Blue Metallic added

For 2008, the Suzuki Swift+ is unchanged, save for a new engine immobilizer and a trim change to the seats.

Available in Canada only, and solely in hatchback configuration, the Swift+ is built by GM-DAT and is a sister car to the Chevrolet Aveo and Pontiac Wave; those hatchback models will be updated for 2009.

The Swift+ uses a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed manual transmission that can be optioned to a four-speed automatic. Two trim lines are available, the base Swift+ and Swift+ S.

Features on the base model include 14-inch steel wheels, CD/MP3 stereo, tilt steering wheel, floor mats, height-adjustable driver's seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, manual mirrors, power outlet, fixed intermittent wipers, rear wiper, and engine block heater.

The S adds air conditioning, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, cruise control, heated power mirrors, front and rear mud flaps, fog lamps, rear spoiler and anti-theft alarm.

The Swift+ is a surprisingly peppy little performer, and thanks to a fair helping of sound-deadening material, it's very quiet for an economy vehicle. It comes with front seat side airbags, but anti-lock brakes are not available. The base model can only be optioned with air conditioning, so expect most buyers to go for the better-equipped S trim line.