Used Suzuki Swift for sale nearClacton-on-sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.8 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 32.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 700
Average Price: Around £9,800

Suzuki Swift (2010-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Nimble handling and nippy performance	Plasticky cabin finish
Affordable used prices	Not as roomy as a Skoda Fabia
Deserved reputation for reliability	SZ2 spec is a little bit basic

Quick Summary

The Suzuki Swift (2010-2017), the second-generation of the modern Swift, is an often-overlooked supermini that deserves far greater recognition. With smart styling that hints at the Mini, neat proportions, and a design that's both practical and visually appealing, it offers genuine appeal to both head and heart. The interior is intelligently laid out, though some materials feel hard and scratchy; however, the most-touched elements like the gear lever and indicator stalks benefit from higher-quality plastics. Boot space is modest at 211 litres, and rear legroom is tight for larger adults, making it less spacious than rivals like the Skoda Fabia.

Where the Swift truly excels is on the road. It's genuinely fun to drive, responding quickly to steering inputs and changing direction nimbly, making it a satisfying choice for zipping around town. The standard 1.2-litre petrol engine feels eager with lively throttle response and reasonable punch throughout the rev range, whilst the more potent 1.6-litre Sport version offers additional excitement. Running costs are excellent, with the standard Swift achieving around 50mpg and the Dualjet version reaching 55mpg whilst qualifying for zero car tax below the 100g/km CO2 threshold. The diesel variant achieves 60-65mpg, and even the Swift Sport manages approximately 40mpg. Crucially, the Swift uses a metal timing chain that should last the car's lifetime, avoiding costly replacement bills associated with rubber timing belts found in some rivals.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking nimble handling and reliability, those wanting an affordable supermini with character, and drivers who appreciate sprightly performance without premium pricing.

Not ideal for: Buyers requiring maximum interior space or rear legroom, those prioritising a premium cabin feel, or those seeking the most basic SZ2 specification without upgrading to SZ3 or above.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Swift if: You're on a budget, seeking nimble handling and reliability, wanting an affordable supermini with genuine character, or looking for sprightly performance without premium pricing.

Consider alternatives if: You require maximum interior space and rear legroom, prioritise a premium cabin feel, or need the most comprehensive standard equipment on entry-level trims.

Competitive Position: The Suzuki Swift (2010-2017) is a compelling choice in the used supermini market, offering excellent value and genuine driving enjoyment. Whilst it may not match the Skoda Fabia for interior space or the Ford Fiesta for outright handling refinement, its combination of nimble performance, affordability, and deserved reliability reputation make it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. The Swift's metal timing chain and low running costs provide long-term value, and its sprightly character ensures it remains engaging to drive. It's a shame the Swift is so often overlooked, as it represents a very sensible and rewarding purchase.

Read our full Suzuki Swift Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.