Maruti Suzuki has refreshed one of India’s most loved hatchbacks with the Maruti Swift 2026, bringing meaningful changes under the hood and a sportier design that aims to keep the Swift competitive in the busy compact-car segment. This new version focuses on efficiency, everyday usability, driver comfort, and a feature set that’s practical for urban buyers and first-time car owners alike.
The heart of the update is the new 1.2-litre Z-Series petrol engine, paired with modern transmissions and designed to deliver good fuel efficiency without sacrificing daily-driving flexibility. While headline “32 km/l” mileage figures have circulated in discussions, official certified numbers show strong economy — particularly in the CNG version — without drastic compromises on drivability.
All-New 1.2L Z-Series Engine
The standout mechanical change in the 2026 Swift is the new 1.2-litre Z-Series three-cylinder petrol engine, which replaces an older four-cylinder unit. This engine makes around 80 bhp and 112 Nm of torque, and is available with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed AMT automatic gearbox.
The design philosophy behind this smaller-displacement, three-cylinder motor is better thermal efficiency and fuel economy, meaning the engine uses less fuel while offering enough power for urban and highway driving alike.
Fuel Efficiency and Mileage Figures
Official ARAI-certified figures for the 2026 Swift show fuel economy in line with expectations for modern petrol hatchbacks:
- Petrol Manual: ~24.8 km/l
- Petrol AMT: ~25.75 km/l
- CNG (Manual): ~32.85 km/kg
While this means Swift doesn’t quite reach “32 km/l” on petrol, the CNG-equipped models do achieve very high mileage numbers, making them ideal for buyers focused on the lowest possible running costs.
Sporty Design With Modern Details
Though the Swift’s overall shape remains recognisable, the 2026 model gets subtle design updates that enhance its youthful and agile character. These include:
- A sharper front grille and projector headlamps
- Sleek LED daytime running lights
- Sportier alloy wheels and cleaner body lines
- A bold rear stance that ties into Swift’s signature hatchback look
Inside, the cabin balances simplicity with convenience, offering comfortable seating, a driver-oriented dashboard, useful storage, and practical materials suited to daily use.
Feature Set That Works for Everyday Life
The 2026 Swift brings a range of tech and comfort features that are relevant for modern buyers, including:
- Large infotainment display with smartphone connectivity
- Wireless charging and plenty of USB-A/C ports
- Cruise control and steering-mounted controls
- Rear AC vents and adjustable headrests for the back seat
Safety equipment has also been improved, with six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill hold assist, and stability control becoming standard in many versions, underlining Maruti’s focus on occupant protection in this segment.
Real-World Usability and Comfort
The Swift’s compact dimensions and light steering make it easy to drive in the city, while a stable highway setup gives confidence on longer trips. The engine’s torque at low revs helps with smooth take-offs and effortless city cruising. While real-world mileage varies by driving style, many owners report sensible economy when driven gently, and the CNG versions are especially efficient for budget-focused buyers.
Price Expectations and Variant Choices
Maruti Suzuki has positioned the Swift competitively. Official pricing for recent models places it in the affordable hatchback bracket, with base variants starting in the mid-₹6 lakh range, moving upward for higher trims and feature-packed versions. Prices can vary by state and by whether you’re choosing petrol or CNG configurations.
EMI options and offers can make monthly ownership feel accessible to young professionals and families looking for value without compromise.
Final Thoughts
The Maruti Swift 2026 refresh combines a new efficient engine, updated tech features, and a sportier design while keeping the hatchback’s fundamental strengths intact — low running costs, strong service support, and practical usability. Although its petrol mileage figures are within the expected range for modern hatchbacks, the CNG option stands out for high economy, and the overall package continues to appeal to buyers who want an affordable, fun-to-drive car for daily use.
If you’re considering a small car with a good balance of economy, practicality, and modern features, the new Swift remains one of the segment’s most compelling choices.