Young Driver training’s Suzuki Swift switch

The UK’s largest pre-17s driver-trainer has invested more than £2 million to purchase 170 new Suzuki Swift cars.

Young Driver, which gives more than 150,000 lessons a year for 10-17-year-olds at 72 sites, has just taken delivery of its first batch of Swift Hybrid models.

And after 16 years and nearly 1.5 million lessons, Young Driver has been responsible for dramatically reducing accident rates among its graduates, with only 3.3% of former students being involved in accidents in the first six months after passing their driving test, versus the national average of 20%.

“After reviewing all our options to replace the existing Vauxhall Corsa fleet, the Swift was the clear winner,” said Ian Mulingani, Young Driver’s Managing Director.

“Our decision was based around three priorities: product quality and durability; low C0₂ emissions and fuel economy; and – of course – driveability and ease of operation for our novice drivers.

“The Swift stood head and shoulders above its other rivals so we’re now taking on a new fleet of mild hybrid cars that is significantly greener and more economical, easier to drive, better equipped, and, according to CAP HPI’s predictions, will retain an excellent 55% of its value after three years and 36,000 miles.”

He added: “What finally tipped the balance for us, though, was product durability. The fact that Suzuki was rated third out of 31 brands in the What Car? 2024 Reliability Survey, says it all, really. We also have the reassurance of a Suzuki warranty of up to seven years and 100,000 miles.”