Faults:

No problems so far.

General Comments:

I sold my 2003 Renault Megane II because it sucked in so many ways. I will NEVER buy another car manufactured in France, that's for sure. Dodgy electronics, faulty ignition coils, squeaking front brakes, stuck/misaligned rear brake pads, gasoline in the engine oil, foul-smelling AC, broken power windows and water ingress on the driver's side... NO THANK YOU!

I went out looking for the PERFECT city car. I checked out virtually EVERY car in the Volkswagen Polo segment, ie, cars around 3.7 to 4.0 meters in length, or slightly smaller than a Volkswagen Golf, but larger than the original Smart. It took me probably 6 months to go though them all, but I was in no hurry right then. The result of all this extensive and very thorough testing was this:

There were only two cars left in the race in the end: The Suzuki Swift and the Honda Jazz (called Fit in some markets). They are about equivalent, except that the Honda is more spacious and has a more economical engine, and the Suzuki a more powerful and responsive engine and a quieter drive. In the end I picked the Swift, and I don't think I will ever regret this.

So far the cars has been 100 percent reliable and very, very comfortable. I have to really focus to find any fault with it... Oh yes, the front wheels lose traction and spin when I hit the gas. Maybe I need better tires or maybe the car is too light for the engine, I don't know.

The baggage compartment is small, but we all know that. I hauled six large boxes in the car once - no problems.

If you are about to buy a Swift, get a Japanese-made one. Check the VIN number: if it begins with the letters JS, the car was made in Shisuoka, Japan and not at the plant in Hungary. (The Japanese ones have power windows, leather steering wheel and much nicer, high quality upholstery.)

All in all, a fantastic little car, and a fun, smooth drive. The engine is responsive and the gearbox very precise and enjoyable. I love it! I would buy exactly the same car again if I had the chance.