A proper head-to-head in South Africa — we cover price, performance,
petrol economy, safety and what it'll actually cost you to own each one long term.
Swift starts ZAR 237900 cheaperIgnis from ZAR 237,900 · Swift from ZAR 228,900
Key Specs Side by Side
The specs that matter most — highlighted where one car leads.
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Engine Power
61 kW
60 kW
Torque
113 Nm
112 Nm
Engine Size
1197 cc
1197 cc
Claimed Mileage
18.9 km/l
20 km/l
Ground Clearance
180 mm
145 mm
Boot / Load Bay
260 l
265 l
Airbags
6
6
Kerb Weight
855 kg
975 kg
Seating Capacity
5
5
Warranty
5
5
= leads in this spec
The Bottom Line
Both Ignis and Swift are extremely closely matched, making the final choice dependent on buyer preference.
Where They Actually Differ
Performance
Swift
+3 pts
Efficiency
Swift
+4 pts
Safety
Ignis
+11 pts
Practicality
Ignis
+5 pts
Ownership
Equal
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
🏆 Overall Winner
Ignis
Strengths
Stronger safety package
More practical for daily use
Weak Spots
Less powerful engine setup
Lower fuel efficiency
Best suited to:Family Usage
Swift
Strengths
More powerful engine output
Better fuel efficiency
Weak Spots
Less comprehensive safety features
Less practical in daily usage
Best suited to:Highway DrivingFuel Efficiency
Which One's Right for You?
Ignis
Families prioritising stronger safety equipment
Large families needing more practicality and usability
Swift
Drivers who prioritise strong highway performance and overtaking power
Buyers looking for better fuel efficiency
Full Specs, Side by Side
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Model Introduced Year
2017
2017
Generation
Second-generation Ignis on Suzuki's lightweight platform — 850kg kerb weight makes it one of the lightest five-seater crossovers available in any market. K12M engine retained for proven reliability track record.
Third generation (AZ/NZ series) on HEARTECT platform; Z12E DualJet engine generation introduced globally 2020-2021; current SA specification reflects 2022 range update with GLX tier added
Facelift History
Original global Ignis launched in 2016; second generation arrived 2020 with updated styling and connectivity; current SA specification reflects 2023-2024 equipment update with GLX trim and active safety additions.
Third-generation Swift launched in SA in 2017 with K12B engine; engine updated to Z12E DualJet in 2021 bringing improved fuel economy and refined low-rpm performance; GLX trim added to the SA range in 2022 with heads-up display and dual-zone climate control; ongoing specification updates maintain competitive equipment levels
Facelift Launched Since
2024
2022
Facelift Version Ending
Current
Current
Body Style
Hatchback
Hatchback
Color Note
Silky Silver Metallic, Granite Grey Metallic, Pearl Snow White, Burning Red Pearl, Sphere Blue Metallic, Speedy Blue
Solid White, Pearl Snow White, Metallic Blue, Metallic Red, Metallic Granite Grey, Metallic Silky Silver, Pearl Midnight Black, Burning Red Pearl
Dealer Stock Note
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Model Year
2026
2026
Production Status
published
published
Segment
Hatchback
Hatchback
Vehicle Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Ground Clearance
180 mm
145 mm
Wheelbase
2435 mm
2450 mm
Length
3700 mm
3890 mm
Width
1690 mm
1735 mm
Height
1595 mm
1495 mm
Kerb Weight
855 kg
975 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight
-
1380 kg
Seating Capacity
5
5
Boot Space
260 l
265 l
Towing Capacity
-
0 kg
Front Track Width
-
1480 mm
Rear Track Width
-
1480 mm
Turning Radius
-
4.8 m
Load Bed Length
260 l
265 l
Load Bed Width
-
-
Front Legroom
-
1032 mm
Rear Legroom
-
890 mm
Front Headroom
-
975 mm
Rear Headroom
-
967 mm
Front Shoulder Room
-
1370 mm
Rear Shoulder Room
-
1345 mm
Boot Space Seats Folded
260 l
579 l
Number of Doors
5
5
Max Payload
-
425 kg
Boot Volume
260 l
265 l
Doors
5
5
Seats
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity
32 l
37 l
Gross Vehicle Mass Kg
-
1380 kg
Ground Clearance Max
180 mm
145 mm
Ground Clearance Min
180 mm
145 mm
Ground Clearance Mm
180 mm
145 mm
Height Mm
1595 mm
1495 mm
Length Mm
3700 mm
3890 mm
Loadbox Length Mm
260 l
265 l
Loadbox Width Mm
-
-
Payload Kg
-
425 kg
Cargo Volume
260 l
265 l
Tare Mass Kg
855 kg
975 kg
Turning Circle
-
4.8 m
Turning Circle M
-
4.8 m
Width Mm
1690 mm
1735 mm
Boot Space Seats Folded
260 l
579 l
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Engine
1.2L K12M 4-Cylinder Petrol
1.2L Z12E 3-Cylinder Petrol
Engine Type
Inline 4 Cylinder Naturally Aspirated
Inline 3 Cylinder Naturally Aspirated
Displacement
1197 cc
1197 cc
Cylinders
4
3
Valves per Cylinder
4
4
Power
61 kW
60 kW
Power @ RPM
6,000 rpm
5,700 rpm
Torque
113 Nm
112 Nm
Torque @ RPM
4,200 rpm
4,300 rpm
Fuel System
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Turbocharger
-
-
Top Speed
152 km/h
160 km/h
0-100 km/h
14.0 sec
12.5 sec
Compression Ratio
10.0:1
12.0:1
Engine Position
Transverse Front-Mounted
Transverse Front-Mounted
Cylinder Bore
73.0 mm
73.0 mm
Piston Stroke
71.5 mm
95.5 mm
Engine Code
K12M
Z12E
Engine Oil Capacity
3.3 l
3.1 l
Power
83 bhp
80 bhp
Fuel Grade Required
93 RON Unleaded Petrol
93 RON Unleaded Petrol
Cylinder Layout
Inline 4 (I4)
Inline 3 (I3)
Engine Aspiration
Naturally Aspirated
Naturally Aspirated
Variable Valve Timing
VVT on Intake Camshaft
Dual VVT on Intake and Exhaust
Maximum Engine RPM
6500 rpm
6500 rpm
Engine Type Config
1.2L K12M 4-Cylinder Petrol
1.2L Z12E 3-Cylinder Petrol
0–100 km/h
14.0 sec
12.5 sec
Battery Capacity
-
-
Charging Port
-
-
AC Charging Time
-
-
Engine Displacement
1197 cc
1197 cc
Engine Displacement Litres
1197 cc
1197 cc
EV Range
-
-
Acceleration 0 100
14.0 sec
12.5 sec
Combined System Power
-
-
Combined System Torque
-
-
Engine Config
1.2L K12M 4-Cylinder Petrol
1.2L Z12E 3-Cylinder Petrol
Engine Cylinders
4
3
Engine Displacement Cc
1197 cc
1197 cc
Engine Power kW
61 kW
60 kW
Engine Torque Nm
113 Nm
112 Nm
Engine Valves
4
4
Induction
Naturally Aspirated
Naturally Aspirated
Max Power kW
61 kW
60 kW
Max Torque Nm
113 Nm
112 Nm
Maximum Power
61 kW
60 kW
Maximum Torque
113 Nm
112 Nm
Motor Position
-
-
Motor Power
-
-
Motor Torque
-
-
Motor Type
-
-
Power Assisted Steering
Electric Power Assisted (EPAS)
Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS)
Power kW Rpm
6,000 rpm
5,700 rpm
Active Exhaust
-
-
System Output
-
-
Torque Nm Rpm
4,200 rpm
4,300 rpm
Turbo Type
Naturally Aspirated
Naturally Aspirated
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Drive Type
FWD
FWD
Drivetrain Layout
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
LSD Available
-
-
Transfer Case
-
-
Differential Lock
-
-
Paddle Shifters
-
-
Final Drive Ratio
-
4.388:1
Number of Gears
5 km/h
7 km/h
Transmission Type
Automatic
Automatic
Clutch Type
Single Dry Plate with Electronic Clutch Actuator
Single Dry Plate Diaphragm
Drivetrain
FWD
FWD
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
4WD Engagement
-
-
4WD Hi Range
-
-
4WD Lo Range
-
-
4WD Selector
-
-
Automatic Shift Paddles
-
-
Differential Type Front
-
-
Differential Type Rear
-
-
Front Differential Lock
-
-
Gearbox Type
Automatic
Automatic
Low Range
-
-
Axle Layout
FWD
FWD
Rear Differential Lock
-
-
Transfer Case Guard
-
-
Transmission Speeds
5 km/h
7 km/h
Steering Turns Lock to Lock
-
2.7
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Claimed Mileage
18.9 km/l
20 km/l
City Mileage
13.3 - 16.7 km/l
16.1 km/l
Highway Mileage
21.7 km/l
23.8 km/l
Fuel Tank Capacity
32 l
37 l
Emission Standard
Euro 5
Euro 5
AdBlue Tank Capacity
-
-
Auto Start Stop
-
-
Average Fuel Consumption
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
Claimed Fuel Consumption
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
Fuel Efficiency
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
Real-world Mileage
18.9 km/l
20 km/l
AC Charging Power
-
-
Charging Port Type
-
-
Charging Time AC Full
-
-
Charging Time DC Fast 80pct
-
-
Charging Type
-
-
Combined Consumption
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
Combined Consumption L 100km
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
DC Charging Power
-
-
Fuel Economy Combined
5.3 l/100km
5 l/100km
Fuel Tank Litres
32 l
37 l
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Low Range Ratio
-
-
Combined Driving Range
-
-
Electric Consumption
-
-
Range Real World Highway
-
-
Range Real World Mixed
-
-
Range Wltp
-
-
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Airbags
6
6
ABS
Standard
Standard
Electronic Stability Control
Standard
Standard
Traction Control
Standard
Standard
Hill Descent Control
-
-
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Standard
Child Safety Lock
Standard
Standard
ISOFIX Mounts
Standard
2 Rear ISOFIX Points
Brake Assist
Standard
Standard
Tyre Pressure Monitor
-
-
Engine Immobiliser
-
Standard
Central Locking
Standard
Remote Central Locking
Seatbelt Warning All Seats
Standard — Front
All Seats
Front Parking Sensors
Standard
-
AEB
Standard — Low Speed AEB
-
BA
Standard
Standard
Brake Override System
-
-
Curtain Airbags
Standard
-
Driver Airbag
Standard
6
EBD
Standard
Standard
Engine Immobiliser
-
Standard
Fatigue Detection
-
-
Hill Hold
Standard
Standard
Passenger Airbag
Standard
6
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
-
-
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Standard — Front
All Seats
Side Airbags
Standard
-
TCS
Standard
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring
-
-
Knee Airbag
-
-
ABS EBD
Standard
Standard
Driver Front Passenger Airbags
6
6
Driver Passenger Airbags
6
6
ESC With Traction Control
Standard
Standard
Alarm System
-
Standard
Side Impact Beams
-
Standard
Pedestrian Detection AEB
-
-
Safety Rating
-
Not Independently Rated
Whiplash Protection
-
Active Head Restraints on Front Seats
Lane Change Warning
-
-
Anti Theft Alarm
-
Standard
Speed Alert System
-
Standard — Audible Warning at 120 km/h
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Cruise Control
Standard
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
-
-
Lane Keep Assist
Standard
-
Lane Departure Warning
Standard
-
Blind Spot Monitoring
-
-
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
-
-
Parking Sensors
-
Rear Ultrasonic Sensors
Rear View Camera
Rear View Camera
Standard Reverse Camera
360 Degree Camera
-
-
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Standard — Low Speed AEB
-
Driver Fatigue Alert
-
-
Traffic Sign Recognition
-
-
Auto Highbeam
Standard
-
Auto Lights
Standard
Standard
Auto Wipers
-
Standard
Drive Modes
-
-
EV Mode
-
-
Rear Parking Sensors
Standard
Rear Ultrasonic Sensors
Reverse Camera
Rear View Camera
Standard Reverse Camera
Adaptive Cruise Control
-
-
Park Assist
-
-
Around View Monitor
-
-
Blind Spot Warning
-
-
Emergency Braking
Standard — Low Speed AEB
-
Forward Collision Warning
-
-
Front Camera
Standard
-
Automatic High Beam
Standard
-
Rain Sensor Wipers
-
Standard
Rear View Camera
Rear View Camera
Standard Reverse Camera
Reverse Camera Type
Rear View Camera
Standard Reverse Camera
Reversing Camera
Rear View Camera
Standard Reverse Camera
Pre-Collision System
-
-
Surround View Camera
-
-
Parking Distance Sensors
-
Rear Ultrasonic Sensors
Parking Sensor
-
Rear Ultrasonic Sensors
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Seat Material
Premium Fabric with Contrast Stitching
Fabric with Leatherette Inserts
Seat Adjustment
Manual 6-way
Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment
Heated Seats
-
-
Ventilated Seats
-
-
Steering Type
Electric Power Assisted (EPAS)
Electric Power Assisted (EPAS)
Steering Adjustment
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Adjustable
Ambient Lighting
-
-
Rear AC Vents
-
-
Rear USB Ports
2 USB
0
Steering Wheel Material
-
Urethane
Instrument Cluster Type
Multi-Information Display (MID)
Analogue with Digital Trip MID
Interior Colour Options
6
2
60 40 Split Seat
-
60:40 Split Fold
Adjustable Driver Seat
Manual 6-way
Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment
Driver Seat Adjustment
Manual 6-way
Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment
Fabric Seats
Premium Fabric with Contrast Stitching
Fabric with Leatherette Inserts
Passenger Seat Adjustment
Manual 4-way
Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment
Boot Space Seats Up
260
265
Cargo Space
260
265
Driver Seat
Manual 6-way
Manual 4-Way Driver Adjustment
Interior Courtesy Lamps
9-inch touchscreen on GLX with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, LED headlights and fog lights on GLX, 15-inch alloy wheels on GLX, keyless entry and push-button start from GL AMT, six airbags on GLX, AEB and lane depar
9-inch touchscreen on GLX with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heads-up display on GLX, dual-zone climate control on GLX, leather-wrapped steering wheel on GLX, rear parking camera from GL+, dual front airbags standard,
Leather Accented Seat Trim
Premium Fabric with Contrast Stitching
Fabric with Leatherette Inserts
Interior Colours
6
2
Seat Belt Warning
Standard — Front
All Seats
Seat Capacity
5
5
Seat Count
5
5
Seat Trim
Premium Fabric with Contrast Stitching
Fabric with Leatherette Inserts
Folding Rear Seats
-
60:40 Split Fold
Front Armrest
-
-
Rear Armrest
-
-
Cup Holders
-
4
Driver Lumbar Support
-
-
Door Map Pockets
-
All Four Door Pockets
Boot Space Seats Down
-
579
Seat Fold Type
-
60:40 Split Fold
Armrest Front
-
-
Armrest Rear
-
-
Rear Seat Centre Armrest
-
-
Interior Trim Colour
-
2
Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest
-
-
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Climate Control
Manual Air Conditioning
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control
Power Windows
Standard
All Four Windows
Keyless Entry
Standard
-
Push Button Start
Standard
-
Wireless Charging
15W Wireless Charging
-
Sunroof
-
-
Electric Tailgate
-
-
Automatic Headlamps
LED Projector Headlights
Standard
Rain Sensing Wipers
-
Standard
AC Type
Manual Air Conditioning
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control
Adaptive Dampers
-
-
Climate Zones
Manual Air Conditioning
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control
Electric Folding Mirrors
Standard
All Four Windows
Engine Start Button Illumination
Standard
-
Engine Start Stop
Standard
-
Engine Start Stop Button
Standard
-
Engine Warranty
4 Years
4 Years
Fuel Consumption Combined
5.3
5
Gear Shift Type
5-Speed Automated Manual (AMT)
CVT Automatic
Ground Clearance Unladen
180
145
Heads Up Display
-
-
Hill Start Assist
Standard
Standard
Launch Control
-
-
Panoramic Roof
-
-
Performance Data Logger
-
-
Power Mirrors
Standard
All Four Windows
Push Button Start
Standard
-
Rev Matching
-
-
Seat Type
Premium Fabric with Contrast Stitching
Fabric with Leatherette Inserts
Seatbelt Pre Tensioner
Standard — Front
All Seats
Seatbelt Reminder
Standard — Front
All Seats
Service Plan
Not Included
Not Included
Skid Plates
-
-
Spare Wheel
Space Saver Spare Wheel
Full Size Spare
Stability Control
Standard
Standard
Stabilizer Bar
Standard
Standard
Steering Mounted Controls
Standard
Standard
Tail Lamps
LED Tail Lamps
-
Telescopic Steering
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Steering
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Adjustable
Valves Per Cylinder
4
4
Voice Command
Google Maps via CarPlay/Android Auto
-
Voice Command Support
Google Maps via CarPlay/Android Auto
-
Accelerator 0 100
14.0 sec
12.5 sec
Air Conditioning
Manual Air Conditioning
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control
Automatic High Beam
Standard
-
Battery Preconditioning
-
-
Battery Voltage
-
-
Bed Extender
-
-
Canopy Fitment
-
-
Common Rail Injection
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Diff Lock
-
-
Difflock
-
-
Digital Speedometer
Multi-Information Display (MID)
Analogue with Digital Trip MID
Front Diff Lock
-
-
Front Wiper
Standard
Standard
Front Wipers Type
Standard
Standard
Intelligent Battery System
-
-
Intelligent Keyless Entry
Standard
-
Load Bed Cover
-
-
Load Bed Light
-
-
Load Bed Steps
-
-
Loadbox Depth Mm
-
-
Loadbox Rope Hooks
-
-
Loadbox Tiedown Brackets
-
-
Manual Aircon
Manual Air Conditioning
Automatic Dual-Zone Climate Control
Mirror
Standard
Manual Fold Black Mirrors
One Pedal Driving
-
-
Passive Entry Start
Standard
-
Rear Air Conditioning
-
-
Rear Diff Lock
-
-
Rear Electric Motor
-
-
Rear LED Combination Taillights
LED Tail Lamps
-
Regenerative Braking
-
-
Regenerative Braking Levels
-
-
Remote Central Locking
Standard
Remote Central Locking
Rim Size
15 Inches
15 Inches
Sound System
4
6
Source Model Column
ignis
swift
Sport Plus Mode
-
-
Sports Bar
-
-
Stabilizer Bar Front
Standard
Standard
Stabilizer Bar Rear
Standard
Standard
Steering Column Adjustment
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Adjustable
Sub Frame
Monocoque
HEARTECT Monocoque Platform
Tailgate Damper
-
-
Tailgate Lock
-
-
Tow Bar Type
-
-
Trim Level
flagship
flagship
Unlocking
Standard
-
Variant Role
Flagship / premium derivative
Flagship / premium derivative
Vdc
Standard
Standard
Vehicle To Grid
-
-
Vehicle To Load
-
-
Walk Away Auto Door Lock
Standard
-
Walk Away Lock
Standard
-
Wireless Charger
15W Wireless Charging
-
Auto Dimming Mirror
-
-
Rear Window Defroster
-
Standard
Electric Mirror Folding
-
Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors
Driver Seat Height Adjustment
-
Standard — Driver Height Adjustable
Follow Me Home Headlamps
-
-
12V Accessory Socket
-
1 x 12V Socket
Speed Limiter
-
Standard
Payload Capacity
-
425
TPMS
-
-
Surround View Monitor
-
-
Sonar
-
Rear Ultrasonic Sensors
Rear Seat Split
-
60:40 Split Fold
Front Armrest
-
-
Bottle Holders
-
4
Glove Box
-
All Four Door Pockets
Glovebox Cooling
-
All Four Door Pockets
Powered Tailgate
-
-
Lift Gate
-
-
Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors
-
Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors
Rear Defogger
-
Standard
Front Power Outlet
-
1 x 12V Socket
Power Socket 12v
-
1 x 12V Socket
Speed Alert System
-
Standard
Roof Rack Compatibility
-
-
Rear Wing
-
-
Remote Side Mirror
-
Manual Fold Black Mirrors
Auto Dimming Irvm
-
-
Rearview Mirror Inside
-
-
Centre Console
-
-
Side Impact Bars
-
Standard
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Infotainment Screen
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Apple CarPlay
Android Auto
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Android Auto
Bluetooth Connectivity
Standard
Bluetooth Audio
Number of Speakers
4
6
Navigation System
Google Maps via CarPlay/Android Auto
-
Digital Instrument Cluster
Multi-Information Display (MID)
9-inch Digital Cluster
USB Ports
2 USB
2
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Apple CarPlay
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Standard
Standard
Voice Recognition
Google Maps via CarPlay/Android Auto
-
Infotainment Screen Size
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Audio Controls On Steering
Standard
Standard
Infotainment Display
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Rear Usb
2 USB
2
Audio Speakers
4
6
Audio System
4
Standard
Display Audio
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Front Rear USB Charge Ports
2 USB
2
Head Up Display
-
-
Infotainment Screen
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Multi Information Display
Multi-Information Display (MID)
Analogue with Digital Trip MID
Connected Services
Standard
Bluetooth Audio
Voice Control
Google Maps via CarPlay/Android Auto
-
Smartphone Connectivity
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Apple CarPlay
Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
9-inch Touchscreen
Wireless Android Auto
Wireless Android Auto
Wired Android Auto
FM Radio
-
Standard
Wi-Fi Hotspot
-
-
Radio
-
Standard
Audio
-
Standard
AUX Input
-
-
Spec
Ignis
Swift
LED Headlamps
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Daytime Running Lamps
LED DRL
LED DRLs
Fog Lamps
Standard
Front Fog Lamps
Roof Rails
-
-
Alloy Wheel Design
15-inch Alloy Wheels
15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels
Body Cladding
Black Plastic Wheel Arch Cladding
-
Exterior Colour Options
6
7
Roof Type
-
Standard Fixed Roof
Rear Wiper
Standard
Standard
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
DRL
LED DRL
LED DRLs
Fog Lights
Standard
Front Fog Lamps
Front Fog Lights
Standard LED
Front Fog Lamps
Led Headlights
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Led Taillights
LED Tail Lamps
-
Rear Fog Lights
Standard
-
Auto Headlights
LED Projector Headlights
Standard
Automatic Headlamps
LED Projector Headlights
Standard
Daytime Running Lights
LED DRL
LED DRLs
Electric Blind Sunroof
-
-
Exterior Colour Options
6
8
Exterior Mirror Electric
Standard
All Four Windows
Front Fog Lamps
Standard
Front Fog Lamps
Headlamp Levelling
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Headlamps
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Headlight Type
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Headlights
LED Projector Headlights
LED Projector Headlamps
Load Bed Liner
-
-
Panoramic Sunroof
-
-
Chrome Exterior Finish
-
-
Rear Spoiler
-
-
Wing Mirror Type
-
Manual Fold Black Mirrors
Exterior Mirror Folding
-
Electrically Adjustable Auto-Fold Mirrors
Rear Spoiler
-
-
Exterior Door Handle Colour
-
Body-Coloured Door Handles
Sunroof Slide
-
-
Sunroof Tilt
-
-
Door Handle Finish
-
Body-Coloured Door Handles
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Approach Angle
0 deg
17 deg
Departure Angle
0 deg
22 deg
Wading Depth
0 mm
0 mm
Terrain Modes
-
-
Locking Differential
-
-
Underbody Protection
-
-
Ramp Breakover Angle
0 deg
0 deg
Recovery Hooks
1 Rear Tow Hook
1 Rear Tow Hook
4WD System Type
FWD
FWD
Hill Descent Control
-
-
Ramp-over Angle
0 deg
0 deg
Approach Angle Deg
0 deg
17 deg
Breakover Angle
0 deg
0 deg
Departure Angle Deg
0 deg
22 deg
Energy Recovery Display
-
-
Front Skid Plate Guard
-
-
Off Road Descent Control
-
-
Off Road Traction Assist
-
-
Crawl Control
-
-
Rear Skid Plate Guard
-
-
Skid Plates Fuel Tank
-
-
Skid Plates Transfer Case
-
-
Terrain Mode Mud
-
-
Terrain Mode Normal
-
-
Terrain Mode Rock
-
-
Terrain Mode Sand
-
-
Terrain Mode Snow
-
-
Terrain Response System
-
-
Underbody Camera
-
-
Wading Depth Mm
0 mm
0 mm
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Tyre Size
175/65 R15
185/65 R15
Wheel Type
15-inch Alloy Wheels
15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels
Front Brake Type
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Rear Brake Type
Drum
Drum
Spare Wheel Type
Space Saver Spare Wheel
Full Size Spare
Front Brake Disc Diameter
228 mm
258 mm
Rear Brake Drum Diameter
180 mm
200 mm
Parking Brake Type
Conventional Handbrake
Conventional Handbrake
Tyre Load Index
84
88
Tyre Speed Rating
H
H
Wheel Rim Size
15 Inches
15 Inches
Brake Type Front
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Brake Type Rear
Drum
Drum
Spare Tyre
Space Saver Spare Wheel
Full Size Spare
Tyre Type
175/65 R15
185/65 R15
Wheel Diameter
15 Inches
15 Inches
Auto Brake Hold
Conventional Handbrake
Conventional Handbrake
Autonomous Emergency Brake
Standard — Low Speed AEB
-
Brakes
Ventilated Disc
Ventilated Disc
Cornering Brake Control
Standard
Standard
Electric Park Brake
Conventional Handbrake
Conventional Handbrake
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Standard
-
Fifth Wheel Prep
-
-
Handbrake Type
Conventional Handbrake
Conventional Handbrake
Hydraulic Brake Assist
Standard
Standard
Spare Wheel Size Type
Space Saver Spare Wheel
Full Size Spare
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Standard
Standard
Steering Wheel Cruise Controls
Standard
Standard
Steering Wheel Phone Controls
Standard
Standard
Wheel Material
15-inch Alloy Wheels
15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels
Wheel Size Type
15 Inches
15 Inches
Wheelbase Mm
2435 mm
2450 mm
Wheels
15-inch Alloy Wheels
15-inch Polished Alloy Wheels
Braked Towing Capacity
-
0 kg
Towing Braked Kg
-
0 kg
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
-
-
Tyre Pressure Display
-
-
Leather Steering Wheel
-
Urethane
Steering Wheel Trim
-
Urethane
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Front Suspension
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
Rear Suspension
Torsion Beam
Torsion Beam with Coil Spring
Chassis Type
Monocoque
HEARTECT Monocoque Platform
Power Steering
Electric Power Assisted (EPAS)
Electric Power Assisted (EPAS)
Steering Column
Tilt Adjustable
Tilt Adjustable
Front Spring Type
Coil Spring
Coil Spring
Rear Spring Type
Torsion Beam
Coil Spring
Front Anti-Roll Bar
Standard
Standard
Rear Anti-Roll Bar
Standard
Standard
Shock Absorber Type
Telescopic Gas Dampers
Telescopic Gas Dampers
Chassis Material
Monocoque
HEARTECT Monocoque Platform
Front Suspension Type
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
MagneRide Damping
-
-
Rear Axle Type
Torsion Beam
Torsion Beam with Coil Spring
Rear Suspension Type
Torsion Beam
Torsion Beam with Coil Spring
Shock Absorbers
Telescopic Gas Dampers
Telescopic Gas Dampers
Suspension
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Service Interval
15,000 km or 12 Months
15,000 km or 12 Months
Approx Service Cost
Approx R1,800–R2,200 per Service
Approx R2,000–R2,500 per Service
Battery Warranty
12 Months
12 Months
Maintenance Plan
Not Included
Not Included
Engine Oil Change Interval
10,000 km or 6 Months
10,000 km or 6 Months
First Service At
1,000 km Inspection
1,000 km Inspection
Service Plan Duration
Not Included
Not Included
Service Plan Distance
Not Included
Not Included
Anti-Rust Treatment
Underbody Rust Protection
Underbody Rust Protection
Battery Type
-
-
Gear Shift Indicator
-
-
Service Intervals
15,000 km or 12 Months
15,000 km or 12 Months
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Warranty Years
5
5
Warranty Kilometers
5
5
Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
3 Years Anti-Corrosion
3 Years Anti-Corrosion
Basic Warranty
5
5
Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
Warranty
5
5
Warranty Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
5 Years Roadside Assistance
Spec
Ignis
Swift
CO2 Emissions
120 g/km
114 g/km
Start Stop System
-
-
Hybrid System Type
-
-
Noise Level
68 dB
67 dB
Fuel Octane Requirement
93 RON Unleaded
93 RON Unleaded
Particulate Filter
Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF)
Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF)
Euro Emission Standard
Euro 5
Euro 5
Green NCAP Rating
Not Independently Rated
Not Independently Rated
Idle CO2 Output
Within Euro 5 Limits
Within Euro 5 Limits
Fuel Evaporation Control
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)
CO2 Emissions G Km
120
114
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Real-world City Mileage Min
6.0 l/100km
5.5 l/100km
Real-world City Mileage Max
7.5 l/100km
7.0 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Min
5.0 l/100km
4.0 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Max
6.5 l/100km
5.5 l/100km
Owner Review Count
5
0
Spec
Ignis
Swift
Ownership Role
Flagship
Flagship
Price Source
South Africa variant price CSV; verify against latest OEM price list
South Africa variant price CSV; verify against latest OEM price list
Price Zar
293900 ZAR
296900 ZAR
Pricing Role
Current listed price
Current listed price
Starting Price
293900
296900
Starting Price Zar
293900
296900
Overall Verdict Score
Decision-grade view of the winner, score gap and category strengths.
Weighted / 100
Verdict readout
Ignis leads by 2 points
Both Ignis and Swift are extremely closely matched, making the final choice dependent on buyer preference.
Performance
Swift +3
Efficiency
Swift +4
Safety
Ignis +11
Practicality
Ignis +5
Ownership
Level
Very close match. Final decision depends on buyer preference.
Why this scoreView full breakdown
Overall Winner
Ignis
Performance
25/100
Efficiency
71/100
Safety
82/100
Practicality
57/100
Ownership
71/100
Swift
Performance
28/100
Efficiency
75/100
Safety
71/100
Practicality
52/100
Ownership
71/100
So, Which One Should You Buy?
🏆Suzuki Ignis
wins with 59 pts
vs 57 pts for Swift
In structured scoring, Ignis emerges as the stronger overall package. However, Swift may appeal to buyers prioritising different factors. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Other Comparisons Worth Checking
See how similar cars go head-to-head — you might find a better fit than you expected.
On our scoring the Ignis edges ahead overall. That said, the right choice depends on what you actually use the car for — the breakdown above shows exactly where each one wins and loses.
Efficiency scores: Ignis 71 vs Swift 75. In the real world, diesel variants of either car will beat the claimed figure on long highways and fall short in Joburg traffic.
Safety scores: Ignis 82, Swift 71. Check each model page for NCAP ratings and which trim levels include AEB and blind-spot monitoring — those features aren't always standard.
Long-term ownership scores: Ignis 71, Swift 71. Service intervals, parts availability in SA, and whether a service plan is bundled all factor in — check the individual variant specs for that detail.
Practicality scores: Ignis 57, Swift 52. This covers boot space, seat flexibility, and day-to-day usability — not just interior dimensions on paper.
Performance scores: Ignis 25, Swift 28. This looks at real-world pace — 0–100 kph, highway flexibility, and how either car feels when you actually need to overtake on an N-road.
Resale varies with colour, spec, and market timing, but Japanese brands — and Toyota specifically — have a strong track record in SA. Check current used prices for both on AutoTrader to see the real gap right now.
Ground clearance and 4WD availability are what matter most here. Scroll to the spec table above to compare both side by side — if either model offers a 4WD variant, that's the version worth comparing.
Fuel, insurance, and service costs are the big three. Diesel variants of both models typically save R800–R1,500/month in fuel at current SA pump prices. The Ignis edges the overall ownership score, but check whether either variant includes a service plan — that changes the monthly maths significantly.
The Ignis scores better overall, but neither car is a bad buy here. It comes down to what features matter to you — check the full spec table above to see exactly what you gain and lose at each price point.
In Depth — Breaking It All Down
The comparison between Ignis and Swift in South Africa
evaluates performance, efficiency, safety, practicality and long-term ownership value.
Performance: Ignis scores 25 vs 28.
Efficiency: Ignis scores 71 vs 75.
Safety: Ignis scores 82 vs 71.
Practicality: Ignis scores 57 vs 52.
Ownership: Ignis scores 71 vs 71.
Final structured scoring gives Ignis
the advantage in this comparison.
Compare
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