Can Suzuki’s rebadged version of the Corolla Touring Sports compete with its Toyota cousin and the wider marketplace? Al Suttie parks his derrière in the driver’s seat for a week.

Suzuki Swace 1.8 Hybrid Ultra CVT

List price (BiK): £31,169 (25%) CO2: 102g/km Economy: 62.7mpg Test efficiency: 65.3mpg

Monday

The Suzuki Swace’s recent updates mirror those of its close cousin, the Toyota Corolla. However, the Swace is a bit cheaper on list price, so does this make the Suzuki the cannier choice for company drivers? It’s what’s on my mind this morning as the Swace rolled up looking rather sharp suited for an estate car with such a sober approach to business motoring.

Tuesday

Updates to the engine and hybrid system mean are claimed to offer improved performance without affecting performance or economy for the Suzuki. It certainly feels just as easy and relaxing to drive this morning despite the wind and rain battering the windscreen on my way up to Perth. Even in these conditions, the Swace feels stable and confident on the motorway, and the heated seat is very toasty.

Wednesday

Something that often goes unnoticed and without comment are comfortable seats. Maybe it’s because we just don’t notice unless a seat causes a twinge or fidget. However, all praise to Suzuki for the driver’s seat in the Swace for the support it offers, which was proved after being caught stationary in a traffic jam for a couple of hours with nothing to do but wait for it to clear.

Thursday

With the electric motor increased to 70kW from the previous 50kW, the Swace has a little more urgency when you put your foot down. It’s no ball of fire, with 0-62mph claimed in 9.4 seconds, but it’s on the money for overtaking and cruising along the motorway. The 1.8-litre petrol and electric motor combo are also pleasingly quiet unless you really go full race driver, a manner in which the Swace is not suited to being driven.

Friday

Friday night is football training for my son, and we pick up a couple of his mates. The boot of the Swace has no trouble taking their kit, but the rear seats are not quite as accommodating for two rangy teenagers. I can feel the knees of the lad sat behind me pressing through the seat, which is a bit of a surprise given the Swace has otherwise proved to be a superbly able all-rounder.

Saturday

A tougher test for the Swace’s boot this morning when I have to cart a load of bags and boxes to a charity shop. The post-Christmas clear-out demanded by Mrs S is an annual source of dismay to the kids and I, but at least everything fits in the Suzuki in one go so I don’t end up making multiple trips to drop off old clothes and books and those awkward unwanted Christmas presents.

Sunday

With the chores all done yesterday, the Swace makes light work of taking us to a favourite café for lunch. With my daughter sat behind me, there’s no danger of being bashed by lanky knees. There’s also no risk of having to stop at a fuel station as the Swace is returning more than its claimed combined economy – 65.3mpg in my hands versus the official 62.7mpg. Very impressive and with no effort on my part.