THERE are more and more reasons why you should take a look at Suzuki's brilliant hatchback, the Swift.

With each update, the Swift has become that bit more attractive... and in its latest incarnation it gets the sort of extra features that drivers now demand.

There's still the same engine under the skin - a fizzy 1.2-litre petrol, one of the most powerful in its segment and still capable of an average 56.5mpg.

But now it has the trimmings too in top-of-the-range SZ4 specification.

Into the cabin comes a smart and simple to use navigation system which gives speed limit alerts to those too eager with their right foot and DAB radio that's a doddle to switch channels via a button on the steering wheel.

On the outside there's the appearance of LED running lights that give it extra presence

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 took a softly, softly approach to the latest model.

Global sales of Swift have now passed the four million mark since launch in 2004 – 18 months after the celebration of three million units. Launched in the UK in May 2005; more than 90,000 Swifts have been sold and now account for around 30 per cent of the UK sales mix.

On close examination, there are new curves and headlamps on the Swift to give this third-generation model a more distinctive presence.

The 90mm increase in length, extra 5mm width, 10mm more height and 50mm longer wheelbase become more evident when you sit in the roomier revised cabin.

Available in three grades, SZ2, SZ3 and SZ4, it is priced from £8,999 for the SZ2 three-door.

In addition to seven airbags, the SZ2 has front electric windows, remote central locking with deadlocks, MP3/WMA compatible CD tuner with USB port and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. The SZ3 specification adds air-conditioning and alloy wheels.

Rear electric windows, keyless ignition, Bluetooth, cruise control and auto headlights make up the SZ4.

It is the petrol engine as much as any styling details that will win the Swift more fans. It offers fuel consumption of 56.5mpg, while CO2 emissions are a mere 116g/km.

This engine feels at home in both urban and countryside environments, bringing a sense of fun and frugality.

Part of the Swift's appeal is its instant likeability. You are no sooner behind the wheel than you have a smile on your face.

Yet Suzuki is keen to offer a more frugal version that will be nmore expensive to buy but may well prove its worth over three years.

Suzuki is introducing a new engine for Swift which will be available in January 2015. the new 1.2-litre petrol unit incorporates Suzuki’s latest technology that utilises twin fuel injectors for improved fuel economy, and will come at a price £500 more than the existing engine (which will still be available).

The new technology, known as Dualjet, has resulted in Swift attaining even better fuel economy at 65.7mpg on the EC Combined fuel consumption cycle, representing an impressive 9.2mpg or 16 per cent improvement over the current petrol engine. Another benefit of Dualjet technology is reduced CO2 emissions of 99g/km, meaning that Swift models with this engine are now exempt from VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) charges. Even fewer trips to the fuel pumps and zero VED equate to a saving of up to £175 per year for an average mileage owner.