AT first glance, it looks little different - sharper lines, a bigger grille and bolder headlights. Nothing a course of steroids couldn't have achieved!

But the fourth generation Suzuki Swift, introduced six months ago, is a much enhanced super-mini, despite managing to retain the same compact dimensions - quite an achievement in these days of ever expanding exteriors.

Emissions and fuel consumption are down thanks to the new three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol mild hybrid engine which succeeds in blending oodles of torque with high economy. It's one of the few super-minis that can achieve 60mpg-plus in normal everyday running.

Like most three-cylinder units, it emits a slightly muffled exhaust note which is quite distinctive though not unpleasant. Response is immediate and the 82bhp unit feels livelier than the acceleration figures suggest - 0-62mph in 12 seconds.

A five speed manual gearbox is standard issue, although automatic CVT transmission is available, as is a four-wheel-drive option.

Perhaps the most unexpected quality in the Suzuki's armoury is its composure and the standard of its ride. Tweaks to both the front and rear suspension have produced a ride more akin to a much larger saloon without prejudice to the handling which remains pin-sharp and great fun, especially around twisty roads.

A further bonus is improved steering feel which adds to the driver enjoyments. Nothing vague or woolly about this little car.

Fortunately Suzuki engineers have managed to preserve both the manoeuvrability and the fun factor of the Swift which has long been a feature of the breed. Its eagerness and sharp responses help make even dull journeys more enjoyable.

Noise levels are generally quite low, though under hard acceleration the throb three-pot engine tends to be more vocal. Once throttled back, it's quieter than most small cars.

The cabin has been treated to a makeover with a two-tone plastic fascia - somewhat scratchy but apparently the Japanese home market prefers this. The centre console is angled towards the driver and there's a prominent nine-inch infotainment screen which houses most of the necessary applications.

It's not the most user friendly of formats - physical buttons and switches are much easier and faster to operate.

Front seats have ample adjustment and are quite soft but support well and are comfortable over long journeys. Legroom in the front is ample but inevitably less generous in the back. Boot space is about average for the sector at 265 litres. Fold the rear seats and this grows to 589 litres.

Two models are available - the Motion and Ultra, reviewed here. Standard equipment is pretty generous and includes LED headlights, sat nav, rear view camera, rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitor, electric mirrors with side indicators and rear spoiler.

With a 40-year history and more than nine million sales globally, the Swift retains its place among the best of the super-minis. The latest version improves most areas without any loss of character or individuality.

£20,299

1.2-litre 3 cyl, 82bhp, petrol hybrid engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox

106mph

11.9sec

61.4

21

106g/km

25%

7yrs/100,000 miles

4