One of the first questions asked of motoring journalists when Suzuki's fast-selling Swift was revamped into its larger, more refined new model earlier this year was when the Sport model would be coming.
Well, we can report that after a string of teaser concept cars at recent motor shows, the real Swift Sport will be seen in production form at the Frankfurt International Motor Show next month.
Like its basic hatchback sibling, the new Swift Sport has been enlarged and refined when compared to its popular predecessor. It marks first full model change for the sports version of the car since the original Swift Sport was launched five years ago.
Suzuki says the new car has a more aggressive and "dignified" exterior look thanks to a lower-slung profile that gives a sense of stability and tension, while a larger, wider front grille helps evoke a sporty stance.
The cabin, one area the company is leaving completely for show-goers for the time being, combines sportiness with a high-quality look and feel, and design features that the company says will "heighten excitement about the driving experience".
Higher power and lower fuel consumption are not natural bedfellows, but that combination has been delivered by the 1.6-litre M16A engine, which Suzuki especially developed for the Swift Sport. Maximum output is 100 kilowatts and occurs at 6900rpm, while the torque peak of 160 newton metres is achieved at 4400rpm. The 1586cc engine is mated to a model specific six-speed manual transmission, and results in a performance that its makers say is both exciting and environmentally responsible.
We'd estimate that such output should enable the Swift Sport to hit 100kmh in about eight seconds.
Suzuki tells us that the new Swift Sport offers superior cornering stability compared to its well-liked predecessor, as well as brisker, more responsive handling thanks to struts with internal rebound springs and an exclusive rear- suspension design.
Driver and passenger safety are taken care of by the Swift Sport's stiff, impact- absorbing body, seven airbags and an electronic stability programme.
It is not known whether the show car's three-door will be accompanied by a five- door version when the Swift Sport reaches the market next year, but at least we can tell those who've been inquiring that yes, the model is coming, and it looks like this.