Get used to being gaped,grilled and greened at. Review on Maruti Suzuki Swift

I lost my self control on seeing swift review in Autocar and got my crystal gold vxi swift on june 18. the silky silver, our first pref had a reported waiting period of 2 months. being one of the first cars on road in trivandrum we have got used to being stared at, questioned for expert comments (!!) enquiries from frustrated fellow bookers, being photographed by mobile phone strangers, criticised by cousins for our fool hardiness[ who've now booked & are waiting ] and what not. we previously owned M800 (Spl edn) 5 spd ac . the swift was a mind blower. when idling at lights you have to check dials to see if the engine is running. damn quiet. the gears are wonderful. the ac superb and silent. the space in the front luxurious. seat covers practical. I like the power windows and steering, remote boot unlock and fuel lid opener, smooth and silent wipers, the muted central lock which does not come down with a bang as in the 800 and indica. I have added a keyless entry system (nippon), teflon coating, floor mat (the dealers supplied a dimunitive set of Zen mats!!**?) and a very designer looking set of mud flaps. the car had a small rattling sound in the rear from day one. I thought the suspension had gone to dogs. but turned out to be a loose rear seat back rest which was rectified immediately by the dealer M/s Popular Automobiles. I have done more than 1000 kms (all short trips) in blaring city traffic and the mileage is an abysmal 9.8 to 10.5 kmpl. I was hoping to get atleast 11.5 kmpl

02/10/2006

I have completed 10000k. Now there is funny problem. the front left door handle broke while opening the door from inside. within one month the back left door handle has also broken. I think this is manufacturing defect. also the reverse gear is quite problemmatic. Visibility is poor while driving and reversing. the suspension is not the best I have seen.