This Suzuki AWD Hatch Gives Off Vibes Similar to the 911 Dakar on Urban Roads | Carscoops

      The one-off illustrates how clever enhancements and all-wheel drive can transform a compact hatchback into an off-road explorer.

      

      April 19, 2025, at 05:58

      by Thanos Pappas

      Suzuki Netherlands has developed the Swift AllGrip FX one-off featuring robust aftermarket accessories.

      Key features include a roof rack, LED light bar, black trim accents, leather seats, and all-season tires.

      While the hatchback comes with all-wheel drive, it does not include any power or chassis modifications.

      The Suzuki Swift may be compact, but its size shouldn't mislead you; this city hatchback possesses more off-road capability than you might anticipate. With the optional AllGrip AWD system, it has sufficient adventurous spirit for the Dutch importer to create a special version aimed at those wanting off-road experiences.

      Making the Swift Capable of Off-Road Exploration

      Among the standout features of this build is the Thule roof rack, which can hold a spare tire, snow tracks, and all the equipment you'll need when you overestimate the Swift’s off-road capabilities. Given the small 265-liter trunk space, this upgrade is a significant benefit.

      More: This 6×4 Suzuki Jimny Is The Ultimate Off-Road Toy And It’s For Sale

      The AllGrip FX also boasts several design enhancements, including a Tralert LED bar seamlessly integrated into the front grille and subtle wheel arch trims finished in high-gloss black. The Suzuki logos and AllGrip stickers coordinate with the black design elements, and the rear bumper includes a protective rubber trim. Another appealing aspect is the 196/55R16 all-season tires mounted on standard black alloy wheels.

      Inside, Suzuki Netherlands has upholstered the seats in leather for a more upscale look, while incorporating rubber floor mats for easier maintenance. Additionally, a cool box and a storage container from Dometic are included.

      It May Not Be a Jimny, But It Should Suffice for Most

      While AWD-equipped kei cars are plentiful in Japan, the Swift is among the smallest vehicles in Europe to offer an AWD option. However, don’t set your expectations too high when departing from established paths, as it won’t perform as well as Suzuki's Jimny. That said, its all-wheel drive system is effective; when the front wheels experience slip, the AllGrip system activates, redirecting power to the rear wheels through a viscous coupling.

      The Swift AllGrip FX does not feature any suspension upgrades, but it is positioned 32 mm (1.26 inches) higher than the standard model thanks to the AllGrip setup and slightly more robust tires.

      Under the hood, it maintains the same 1.2-liter naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine supported by a 12V micro-hybrid system, delivering 82 horsepower and connected to a manual transmission instead of the optional CVT. While it may not be extraordinary, it fulfills its purpose.

      A More Unique Option Than Mainstream Crossovers or SUVs

      For those who find crossovers and SUVs overly common, the Swift AllGrip FX may present an appealing choice, should you manage to acquire one. For genuine adventure enthusiasts, options are rather restricted: consider prestigious vehicles like the Porsche 911 Dakar or Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato, as well as a handful of elevated estates like the Audi Allroad or Volvo Cross Country, often 10-20 times more expensive. Nevertheless, companies like Delta 4×4 offer conversions to enhance off-road capabilities for a wide range of vehicles.

      More: Damd Turns Honda N-Box Into A Mini Range Rover

      Will the Swift AllGrip FX motivate more owners to customize their automobiles? It’s difficult to say, but it certainly remains a fun concept, even if it’s somewhat too niche for widespread appeal.

      Although the Swift is a compact vehicle, it comes with a hefty price tag. In the Netherlands, the base front-wheel-drive model starts at €22,299 ($25,400), while the least expensive all-wheel-drive variant costs €28,449 ($32,400) – and that’s before adding any factory options or aftermarket enhancements. These additions will undoubtedly increase the total cost, but some may consider the price reasonable.