AT first glance, the changes made to Suzuki’s big-selling Swift hatchback are far from obvious – and that’s how it should be.

Having created a car that earned it 63 car of the year awards in 19 countries and which reached a million sales faster than any other model in the company’s history, Suzuki has taken a softly, softly approach to the new model.

But on closer examination, there are new curves and headlamps to give this third-generation model a more distinctive presence, and it appears more planted thanks to an increase in its dimensions.

The 90mm increase in length, extra 5mm width, 10mm more height and 50mm longer wheelbase become more evident when you sit in the revised cabin, which is roomier and feels more refined through the use of black plastics and silver details rather than the drab grey previously employed.

Available in three grades, SZ2, SZ3 and SZ4, it is priced from £9,995 for the SZ2 three-door to £13,245 for the SZ4 five-door automatic.

In addition to seven airbags, the SZ2 has front electric windows, remote central locking with deadlocks, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, MP3/WMA compatable CD tuner with USB port and steering-wheel mounted audio controls.

SZ3 adds manual air-conditioning and 16-inch alloy wheels, while the SZ4 includes automatic air conditioning, Bluetooth integrated audio unit with streaming capability, electric rear windows, a push-button keyless start, automatic headlamps, rear privacy glass and cruise control as standard. The SZ4 model, tested here, is clearly the one that Suzuki sees as its answer to the premium models that are filling up the small car sector.

As the owner of a 1.5-litre GLX model for the past three years, I was immediately struck by the chic black fabric of the seats, better steering wheel and the push-button engine start system, which replaces a start switch.

The audio and climate control systems feature clear displays in large type and on top of the dashboard is an extra storage area with pop-up lid. So far, very good.

At the moment, only a 1.2-litre petrol engine is available, replacing the 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre engines in the previous model, but it will be joined by a 1.3-litre diesel in the spring of next year.

It is the engine as much as any styling details that will win the Swift more fans. It offers improved fuel consumption of 56.5mpg (7.8mpg more than the 1.3-litre unit), while CO2 emissions drop by 17 per cent to 116g/km. That means an annual tax charge of only £30.

It’s win-win with this engine. Not only will it provide cheaper running costs, it also has slightly more torque and power than the previous 1.3-litre engine.

This makes for a typically fizzy drive from the eager unit, but the noise and vibration has been kept to a minimum through better engineering. It’s a gutsy performer that belies its size and, for those who enjoy putting a car through its paces, the new Swift is a delightfully entertaining car to drive.

There’s plenty of grip turning into corners, and although some work is needed going through the gears, the Swift remains one of the best in its class for fun motoring.

The reality is that, for the most owners, the Swift will be put into service around urban and city roads, where the excellent handling and improved steering might not be so evident, but the improved suspension will be appreciated.

Surprisingly, an auto stop-start system is available elsewhere but not on the UK models, although I understand it is still under consideration.

What Suzuki has done here is rid its best-seller of flaws and kept everything that drivers have come to appreciate. Then added a few more reasons why you should buy one.

It comes thoroughly recommended by me.

Fact file

price: £12,245 (five-door). Swift range from £9,995 Engine: 1.2-litre petrol generating 94bhp
Transmission: Five-speed manual (automatic available)
Performance: 0 to 62mphin 12.3 seconds, top speed 103mph
Economy: 56.5mpg combined
CO2 Rating: CO emissions: 116g/km