The Mazda Demio and Suzuki Swift are popular subcompact hatchbacks offering practicality, efficiency, and affordability. This article compares them in key areas, helping buyers make informed decisions. It begins by discussing price ranges for both models, considering their affordability in various markets. Next, it examines engine options highlighting performance, and fuel efficiency. A side-by-side comparison follows, focusing on design, interior features, cargo space, and safety. Finally, it evaluates reliability, maintenance costs, and resale value. Whether you prioritize sporty styling or budget-friendly operation, this comparison provides a comprehensive guide to choosing the hatchback that best fits your needs.
Best Suited for
Mazda Demio
- Urban Drivers: Need a compact car for city commuting and parking in tight spaces.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Value fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs.
- Young Professionals: Appreciate stylish design and modern features.
- Small Families: Require a practical, reliable vehicle for daily errands.
- First-Time Car Owners: Seek an affordable, easy-to-drive option with good resale value.
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Suzuki Swift
- Style-Conscious Drivers: Prefer a sporty, modern look with vibrant color options.
- Tech-Savvy Buyers: Enjoy advanced infotainment and safety features.
- City Commuters: Need a nimble, easy-to-maneuver car for urban driving.
- Young Enthusiasts: Appreciate peppy performance and fun-to-drive dynamics.
- Eco-Minded Individuals: Value fuel efficiency and low environmental impact.
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Mazda Demio vs Suzuki Swift Side-by-Side Comparison
Mazda Demio Suzuki Swift
Generations 4th 4th
Production Year 1996-2019 2004 - Present
Performance 72HP - 115HP 75HP - 140HP
Fuel Consumption 18–22 km/L 16–21 km/L
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)/All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)/All-Wheel Drive (AWD)Mild Hybrid (SHVS)
Key Features Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Rearview Camera, Hill Hold Assist (in AMT models)
Seating Capacity 5 5
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Mazda Demio Price
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricing as of December 2024.)
| Mazda Demio 2016 | USD 2,000 – USD 10,970 |
| Mazda Demio 2017 | USD 2,230 – USD 9,630 |
| Mazda Demio 2018 | USD 4,220 – USD 15,320 |
Mazda Demio Price in Kenya
| Mazda Demio Price in Mombasa | USD 910 – USD 15,320 |
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricing as of December 2024.)
Suzuki Swift Price
| Suzuki Swift 2016 | USD 2,700 – USD 13,310 |
| Suzuki Swift 2017 | USD 2,710 – USD 16,450 |
| Suzuki Swift 2024 | USD 10,300 – USD 29,730 |
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricing as of December 2024.)
Suzuki Swift Price in Kenya
| Suzuki Swift Price in Mombasa | USD 1,250 – USD 29,730 |
(*Prices are reflective of average BE FORWARD pricing as of December 2024.)
Important:
Kenya vehicle import regulation, must be less than 8 years old from the year of the first registration. Registration Year: 2018 and Newer Only.
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Exterior
Mazda Demio
The Mazda Demio’s exterior showcases a sleek and stylish design, blending modern aesthetics with functional elements. Key characteristics include:
- KODO Design Philosophy: Inspired by “Soul of Motion,” it emphasizes flowing lines and dynamic shapes.
- Compact Dimensions: Perfect for city driving and tight parking spots.
- Signature Front Grille: Bold design enhances road presence.
- Streamlined Aerodynamics: Reduces drag for better fuel efficiency.
- Sharp LED Headlights: Provide excellent visibility and a premium look.
Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift boasts a sporty and youthful exterior, appealing to dynamic drivers. Key features include:
- Floating Roof Design: Enhances modern styling with a distinct, contrasting roofline.
- Compact yet Sturdy Build: Ideal for urban maneuverability without compromising stability.
- Aggressive Front Fascia: Features a bold grille and sharp headlights for a striking appearance.
- Integrated Rear Door Handles: Adds to the sleek and sporty silhouette.
- Alloy Wheels: Elevate its athletic stance and road presence.
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Interior
Mazda Demio
The Mazda Demio’s interior combines elegance with functionality, offering a comfortable and driver-focused cabin. Key features include:
- Minimalist Dashboard Design: Creates a clean, uncluttered look with intuitive controls.
- Premium Materials: Soft-touch surfaces and quality finishes enhance comfort.
- Spacious Seating: Provides ample legroom for front and rear passengers.
- Infotainment System: Features a user-friendly touchscreen with connectivity options.
- Practical Storage Solutions: Includes well-placed compartments and a versatile trunk space.
Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift’s interior blends sporty aesthetics with practicality, catering to modern drivers. Key features include:
- Driver-Oriented Cockpit: Combines a sporty design with an ergonomic layout for easy access to controls.
- Compact Yet Comfortable Seats: Offer good support with a stylish, youthful flair.
- Touchscreen Infotainment System: Includes smartphone connectivity for entertainment and navigation.
- Sporty Dashboard Accents: Adds a dynamic vibe to the cabin.
- Flexible Cargo Space: Split-folding rear seats enhance versatility.
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Fuel Consumption & Engine
Mazda Demi
The Mazda Demio is renowned for its efficient performance, and reliable engine options, making it ideal for both city commutes and longer trips. Here are its core characteristics:
- Fuel Consumption: Delivers an average of 4.5–5.5 L/100 km (18–22 km/L), depending on the engine variant, and driving conditions. Its fuel efficiency caters to budget-conscious drivers.
- Engine Options:
- 1.3L (1298 cc) petrol engine: Prioritizes fuel economy and smooth performance.
- 1.5L (1496 cc) petrol or diesel engine: Offers more power for versatile driving needs.
- SkyActiv Technology: Enhances engine efficiency, reducing emissions while maintaining responsive performance.
The Mazda Demio’s engine capacities range from 1298 cc to 1496 cc, tailored to various driving styles. With focus on lightweight engineering and aerodynamics, it ensures excellent mileage without compromising performance or reliability.
Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift is celebrated for its sporty performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for urban and eco-conscious drivers. Here are its core characteristics:
- Fuel Consumption: Offers an average of 4.8–6.0 L/100 km (16–21 km/L), varying based on engine type, and driving conditions. It strikes a balance between performance and economy.
- Engine Options:
- 1.2L (1197 cc) petrol engine: Prioritizes efficiency and smooth acceleration.
- 1.0L (998 cc) turbocharged BoosterJet engine: Delivers a mix of power and fuel economy.
- Hybrid variant: Further enhances fuel efficiency for eco-friendly driving.
- Lightweight Platform: Contributes to improved mileage and agile handling.
The Suzuki Swift’s engine capacities range from 998 cc to 1197 cc, catering to different performance preferences. Its advanced engineering ensures a nimble, and efficient driving experience, ideal for both city commutes and highway journeys.
Writer’s Perspective
The Mazda Demio and Suzuki Swift are top contenders in the subcompact hatchback category, each excelling in different areas. The Demio stands out with its elegant KODO design, premium interior, and fuel-efficient SkyActiv engines, making it ideal for those seeking style and comfort. The Swift, on the other hand, offers a sportier look, peppier performance, and hybrid options, appealing to younger, eco-conscious drivers. Both deliver excellent fuel economy and reliability, but the Demio leans towards refinement, while the Swift emphasizes fun-to-drive dynamics. Choosing between them depends on personal priorities like style, technology, or spirited driving.
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Final Verdict
The Mazda Demio and Suzuki Swift are both excellent choices in the subcompact car category, offering efficiency and practicality. The Mazda Demio excels in premium design, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engines, making it ideal for those who value comfort, and a refined driving experience. The Suzuki Swift, in contrast, stands out with its sportier performance, compact size, and hybrid options, catering to drivers who enjoy a fun-to-drive experience, and better eco-efficiency. Both are considered small cars, perfect for city driving. Overall, the Demio offers sophistication, while the Swift emphasizes sportiness and efficiency.
I am a Telecom & ICT specialist with a career spanning over 15 years in the demanding Tanzanian telecom industry.
I am also an avid DIYer with a good knack for everything technical and a wealth of vocational skills, with automotive being the top, and here I am writing about cars.
In 2017 a guy created a WhatsApp group called MyCar for the sole purpose of members helping each other with all matters regarding cars. I joined this group in 2018, and with my enormous wealth of knowledge regarding cars, and my readiness to share the knowledge with others, I became a top contributor, and that didn’t go unnoticed, as one member thought I was a potential writer and had contacts with Be Forward Japan who were looking for writers then. Fast forward to January 2020, I began writing for the Be Forward blog with 2024 being my fourth year.
As far as I can remember, I love cars, and growing up in the farming and tourist city of Arusha Tanzania in the ’80s and ’90s, I ended up being drawn to the Ranger Rover Classic for leisure and Land Cruiser 70 pickup as a workhorse. These were tough cars then, cars that could take you anywhere any time no matter the weather.
