Suzuki Launches 2005 Swift at Paris Motor Show

GMDAT just introduced a new 3-door version of its Kalos, which will be sold with the Chevy bowtie in Europe and North America, as the Aveo. A 3-door version of the Pontiac Wave

Considering the Swift's standard equipment and technology, a $16,500 base price seems like a good deal. But if it comes to Canada it won't sell for more than the current Swift+, that starts at under $13,500. (Photo: Suzuki Canada)

is also expected. A good litmus test as to what Suzuki plans to do with its Kalos-derived Swift+ will be whether the Japanese brand develops a 3-door version of the GMDAT car. If it doesn't, it could mean a version of the European Swift is on the way. That car, incidentally, will be available in a sporty three-door hatchback, or a more family-friendly five-door version.

When it goes on sale in Europe next March, the vehicle is expected to have a price tag of between 10,500 and 11,000 euros ($16,500 - $17,000 CAD; $12,800 - $13,400 USD) a fair value considering the car's standard equipment and technology. The current Swift+ sells for $13,495, and a 2-door version of the same GMDAT vehicle that just showed up in Paris would sell for less. Canada traditionally has the lowest priced cars in the world, and therefore even if the current Swift+ is replaced with the version shown in Europe, it will most likely not cost Canadians any more than the GMDAT built car.

Like the old model, Suzuki has chosen to build the new Swift in the Magyar plant in Hungary, although Japanese models will be built on the automaker's home turf.