THERE'S a new Swift supermini on the way from Suzuki. The third-generation hatchback will be on sale in the UK from the autumn with both three and five-door versions available from launch.

The car is slightly longer than the current model that's very much in the style of BMW's British-built Mini. It's also marginally taller and wider. A longer wheelbase promises greater cabin space.

Suzuki says impact safety, driving performance and handling have all been improved. So, too, fuel consumption, plus significantly lower emissions.

Extensive use of higher strength steel makes the new bodyshell lighter and stiffer than the present model, which went on sale in 2005. Styling changes improve impact safety for pedestrians as well as occupants.

Better handling is thanks both to wider wheeltracks and the fitting of larger diameter wheels, which are shod with lower profile tyres.

The car will be available from launch with a new 1.2-litre petrol engine incorporating variable intake and exhaust valve timing. It produces 94PS at 6,000rpm, which is slightly more than that of the outgoing 1.3-litre unit. Torque is also improved.

Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is now 56.5mpg for the manual transmission model, an improvement of 7.8mpg over the present 1.3-litre engine.

Emissions are much lower. Suzuki says the engine produces 116g/km on the combined cycle, representing a 24g/km or 17 per cent improvement over the 1.3-litre engine when mated to a manual gearbox.

A 1.3-litre diesel engine will be offered from early 2011. We are told this engine emits 109g/km (down from 119g/km) and has an impressive combined fuel consumption of 67.3mpg, an improvement on an already highly credible 62.8mpg from the outgoing Swift DdiS diesel.

Suzuki tells us this Euro 5 engine has more precise engine management than before with reduced levels of mechanical friction for smoother running and flexibility. Specification details and prices will be announced closer to the launch, with the car sold in Derby by Clock Garage at Nottingham Road, Spondon.