IN JUNE 2017, Suzuki finally brought its all-new, Japanese-built, fifth-generation Swift light hatch to Australia, replacing the old but popular version that had been in production since 2011.

Before the arrival of the Swift Sport in January 2018, the most potent, range-topping variant was the GLX Turbo, underpinned by a tiny 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine.

The Swift has long been the backbone of Suzuki’s passenger car line-up in Australia, so the new model arrived Down Under with considerable weight on its diminutive shoulders.

Does the new Swift have what it takes to remain the Japanese brand’s best-seller in Australia?