Page 64 - Motor Trend (May 2020)

WORDS MIGUEL CORTINA
s a child in Mexico City, I grew up
surrounded by VW Beetles and
Nissan Tsurus blaring a brunette
Shakira’s early work. Whether
iconic green-painted taxis or
Aprivately owned cars, those two
models played a big role in the lives of
Mexican families. And like with the
budding Latin pop star, few in the U.S. even
knew they existed.
Back then, the Mexican car market
wasn’t known for cool cars. But over the
past two decades, as new automakers have
entered the country and participated in
its vibrant economy by building assembly
plants, youthful and distinct vehicles have
begun to populate the streets.
I’m not talking about cheap, small cars,
either, but fun, inspiring, thrilling enthu- roads with attitude. The engine, which
siast models. Today, the Mexican market
is full of surprises. From the 290-hp Seat
León Cupra hatchback to the subcompact
Suzuki Swift Sport with its revvy four-cyl-
inder turbo, dozens of delicious treats
unavailable to American shoppers exist
south of the border.
Blame stricter safety regulations, costly
emissions compliance laws, and big
competition (not to mention the “chicken
64 MOTORTREND.COM MAY 2020
tax” on imported pickups) for keeping
many of these global models off U.S. soil.
During my recent trip to Mexico
City, I had the chance to drive six cars
that haven’t made it stateside. From
the wallet-friendly Dodge Neon to the
near-luxury Peugeot 3008 SUV, Mexicans
have access to a range of creative options
barred to Americans.
Suzuki abandoned the U.S. car market
in 2012 (though it still sells motorcycles,
The Suzuki Swift’s chunky design might not
ATVs, and marine engines here), and the be for everyone, but its punchy engine and
Swift Sport is one reason we wish it had handling chops will delight.
stuck around.
Backed by a 1.4-liter turbo-four engine, hills surrounding Mexico City or simply
this small hot hatch takes to winding cruising on flat terrain, the Swift Sport is
honest and happy to keep going.
comes mated to a six-speed manual, The curvy highways seemed to be
produces only 138 hp, but its 170 lb-ft of where the Swift was most comfortable,
torque makes the car feel punchy and leaning into the turns yet exhibiting little
fun. Step on the gas, and you’ll see the body roll. But its torsion-beam suspen-
rpm climb quickly, and its short-throw sion kept the rear a bit loose, especially
transmission helps give this front-driver over pavement in poor condition.
a measure of sportiness.
On the highway, this hatch feels eager
to deliver. Whether you’re climbing the