New Suzuki Swace hybrid estate: prices, specification and on-sale date

Having taken the wraps off the model earlier in the year, Suzuki has now revealed full details of the Swace – a hybrid estate born from its recent partnership with Toyota. Based on the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports, the new car will join the Across plug-in hybrid SUV in the Toyota-based corner of the brand's line-up. The car is on sale now, priced from £27,499 in entry-level SZ-T trim, or £29,299 in better-equipped SZ5 guise.

There aren't many pure-hybrid rivals other than Toyota models, but some brands' plug-in offerings will offer strong competition, like the Skoda Octavia iV and Renault Megane E-TECH.

Power comes from the same 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain as the Corolla, producing a total of 120bhp, mated to a continuously variable transmissions (CVT). The Swace will get the same three drive modes: Normal, Eco and Sport, with Suzuki claiming a 0-62mph time of just over 11 seconds.

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Outside, the Swace distances itself from its sister car with redesigned bumpers, a fresh grille, new headlights and revised rear lights. In the cabin, the car looks much the same as the Corolla, with the same dashboard, switchgear and seats. The Suzuki adds some unique leather trim, however.

Equipment includes climate control, ambient lighting and an eight-inch infotainment system with DAB radio, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Options include wireless phone charging and heated seats. The Swace benefits from the Corolla's comprehensive list of active safety and driver assistance kit too. 

The Swace promises to please family car customers with a combination of low running costs and great practicality. Boot space measures in at 596 litres – some 15 litres more than in its Toyota cousin. Claimed economy of 62.8mpg is good news for private owners, while company-car users will welcome the 99g/km CO2 emissions, which equates to a 22% Benefit in Kind rate.