(Thu 10 Jun 10)

The third-generation Suzuki Swift looks very similar to the current model, which was introduced in 2005, but according to preliminary information it seems to be significantly better.

It's slightly longer, but according to Suzuki its bodyshell is also lighter and stiffer, thanks to the use of higher-strength steel. The company also claims increased crash protection for both occupants and pedestrians.

When the car goes on sale in the UK this autumn (at prices which have yet to be confirmed), it will be available with a new 1.2-litre petrol engine and either manual or automatic transmission. At 93bhp, the 1.2 is slightly more powerful than the 1.3 it replaces, but it's also 17% better on CO2 emissions, with an official figure of 116g/km.

Better still is the 109g/km - and the 67.3mpg combined fuel economy - of the 1.3 diesel, though that one isn't due to arrive in the UK until early next year.

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