Suzuki Swift MK3 Polycarbonate Windows

The third-generation Suzuki Swift, introduced in 1995, took everything that made its predecessors great and refined it into a modern, stylish, and more capable hatchback. With sharper design, improved engines, and better handling, the Mk3 Swift proved that Suzuki wasn’t just making small, affordable cars, they were making small cars that were actually fun to drive.
By the mid-1990s, the compact hatchback market was more competitive than ever, with rivals like the Honda Civic, Volkswagen Polo, and Peugeot 106 dominating the scene. Suzuki needed the Swift Mk3 to stand out, and they did just that by keeping it lightweight, giving it a lively chassis, and ensuring it remained one of the most engaging small cars of its time.
The design was a big step forward from the boxy styling of the previous generation. The Mk3 Swift looked more aerodynamic, with smoother lines, rounded edges, and a sportier profile. It was still compact, but it had a more modern, refined appearance, making it feel fresh compared to some of its aging competitors.
Under the bonnet, Suzuki offered a range of small but punchy four-cylinder engines, from 1.0-litre to 1.6-litre units, depending on the market. These engines were fuel-efficient, reliable, and eager to rev, making the Swift perfect for both city driving and enthusiastic backroad blasts. The lightweight body, weighing in at just over 900kg, meant even the smaller engines felt peppy, while the larger ones provided genuinely quick acceleration.
Then came the Swift GTi, and this is where things got really interesting. Featuring a 1.3-litre DOHC 16-valve engine, producing around 101 horsepower, the GTi had a proper power-to-weight ratio that made it an absolute blast to drive. It could hit 0-60 mph in around 8.5 seconds, which was seriously impressive for a small hatchback of its time. But what truly set it apart was its handling. With sports suspension, uprated brakes, and a tighter chassis setup, the Swift GTi felt sharp, responsive, and incredibly fun in the corners, a proper hot hatch in a lightweight package.
Inside, the Swift Mk3 was simple, functional, and driver-focused. The GTi came with sporty seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and red-accented dials, giving it a proper performance feel. It wasn’t luxurious, but it didn’t need to be, this was a car built for driving enjoyment, not comfort.
Despite its capabilities, the Mk3 Swift remained somewhat of an underdog. In Europe, it had to fight against well-established names like the Peugeot 106 GTi and Volkswagen Polo GTI, while in Japan, it faced strong competition from Honda and Toyota. But those who actually drove one knew the truth, the Swift GTi was one of the most underrated hot hatches of the 1990s.
Today, the third-gen Swift is a rare but respected gem, especially in GTi form. Its lightweight, rev-happy nature and playful chassis make it a proper driver’s car, proving that Suzuki knew exactly how to make a small hatchback feel special. Whether as a daily driver or a weekend toy, the Mk3 Swift remains a brilliant example of how small cars can deliver big thrills.