The Suzuki Swift has long been a modest, unsung hero that's loved by its loyal following. Yet it is often overlooked by mainstream buyers — and the new fourth generation model is no exception.

Often better known for its sporty motorbikes, the Japanese carmaker's new hatchback punches far above its compact size and weight. It is also reasonably priced with smart looks, well-stocked features and five-seater family flexibility.

With just two models, the new Swift range starts from £18,699 for the Motion trim and £19,799 for the higher spec Ultra, which I drove in a fetching shade called Cool Yellow (£600 extra).

It's not the cheapest budget car on the market but it does offer value for money and has a warranty of up to seven years on top of the firm's reputation for reliability.

The hybrid Swift is powered by a frugal but feisty 1.2 litre 3-cylinder 82 horse-power petrol engine, which promises an 8 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency along with low CO2 emissions of 99g/km, keeping road tax down.

It was fun to re-engage with a five-speed manual gearbox in an agile hatchback that is packed with kit as standard, has a contemporary interior and a compact boot which expands when rear seats are folded down. An automatic is also available.

Riding on 16in wheels, it has sharp handling and is fast enough for everyday commuting and motorway cruising. Though the 0-to-62mph acceleration in 12.5 seconds — up to a top speed of 103mph — may leave some wanting more oomph.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist and departure warning, driver monitoring and 'weaving alert' (should you become drowsy), blind-spot monitor and adaptive cruise control.

‹ Slide me ›

An 'ALLGRIP Auto' four-wheel drive version with added grip is planned, Suzuki's first fully electric car, the eVX, arrives in the second half of 2025, followed by further EV models up to 2030.

The brand has announced it will cease sales of its Swift Sport, Jimny LCV, Ignis and hybrid Swace estate models from early 2025 at the latest. This is to comply with emissions rules – known as the 'ZEV mandate'– requiring manufacturers to produce more electric zero-emissions vehicles, regardless of consumer demand.

Ian Cameron fatally stabbed 

Leading British car designer Ian Cameron, who created the flagship Rolls-Royce Phantom when Germany's BMW took over the brand at the start of this century, has been fatally stabbed on the doorstep of his family home by Lake Ammersee, Bavaria.

I knew Ian as a warm, friendly, engaging character whose shocking death last Friday is widely felt. He was 74.

A graduate of London's Royal College of Art, he worked with Pininfarina in Italy, before joining BMW to design the 3 series and Z8 roadster. He also worked on the third-generation Range Rover.

A 22-year-old man is being held over the killing of Mr Cameron.