What to expect from Suzuki PH’s launch of Dzire and Swift

In early June, we were able to confirm that Suzuki Philippines (SPH) will be launching the Swift hatchback and Dzire sedan towards the end of the month. Since these two models are celebrated as among the pillars of the Japanese carmaker’s compact cars, we’re expecting a great deal in the unveiling that’s happening tonight in Pasay City.

We’ve had our share of SPH events in the past, and we’re telling you, it’s always grand and the company has always something up its sleeve. For example, in the VItara’s debut last year, the night was full of youthful vibe to reflect the crossover’s cool, revitalized look.

Taking cues from SPH’s previous launches and from the invitation itself, here’s how we foresee tonight’s launch of the all-new Dzire and Swift.

It’s going to be hip and funky

SPH sent the invitation for the event that borders a street style, gangsta-vibe. No, we don’t think international hip-hop artists will be present tonight, but we’re pretty sure it’s going to be an energetic night – full of dancing and almost party-like.

Well, that kind of energy suits the cars, as both the Dzire and Swift target the younger buyers who have eyes for cars that stand out. But, of course, this should not limit the more matured, sophisticated buyers who want to be more adventurous in their choices.

The cars should be available in colorful trims (sort of)

As the cars are marketed to a younger demographic, the choice of colors for both cars will definitely be vibrant. Although, we’re on the fence when it comes to the color variants that SPH will bring. Thai-spec Swift comes only in Ablaze Red Pearl and Speedy Blue metallic, along with four other “normal” colors such as Pure White Pearl, Star Silver Metallic, Mineral Gray Metallic, and Super Black Pearl. Now, where’s the yellow Swift?

The Dzire, per confirmed local specs, will be available in more prudent tones such as Premium Oxford Blue, Premium Sherwood Brown, Premium Arctic White, Pearl Midnight Black, and Metallic Magma Gray.

Both cars will be all-new, inside out

SPH took the Swift to the Philippine market in 2011, and the Dzire in 2013. With about five to seven years of being in the market, it’s just about time that both models get a total redesign. We’ve had the chance to drive the Dzire earlier this month, and we spotted the promising improvements in the looks and the quality of materials used in the small sedan.

Meanwhile, the sporty and edgy Swift has caught the attention of automotive enthusiasts, something that’s proven on how they swooned over our previous posts about this car. The interior can be left to the imagination, but peeking at the Thai-spec Swift, it is similar to the Dzire’s simple and straightforward cabin. If that would still be the case here, then that means the Swift will also get a flat-bottom steering wheel and a massive seven-inch infotainment system. Nice.

The Dzire’s AGS is a trip

And of course, the Dzire’s Auto-Gear Shift (AGS) technology, also known as automated manual transmission, will be the forefront of the small sedan’s debut. We’re expecting it to be explained again during the event, but that’s okay. Besides, it has proven itself as a cool new tech during our test runs with the car.

The Swift will still be the star of the night

No doubt that the main course of the launch – yes, the most anticipated part of the night – is the big reveal of the all-new Swift. We’re sure that SPH is aware that the life of the party should get the much-needed spotlight.

Aside from its revamped design, we expect the Swift to arrive with the 82-hp 1.2L K12M engine found in the all-new Dzire. Also, as confirmed by the brand, the new Swift will come with CVT instead of the AGS tranny. We expect (hope!) for it to come in manual, too.

As we count the hours to Suzuki’s grand night, we couldn’t keep our silent wish for SPH to bring the turbocharged Swift Sport in the Philippines. We’re not really counting on this possibility, as the company remains tight-lipped about it, but who knows?