Like many builds, my Suzuki Ignis Sport started as my daily driver – a simple, fun little car that reliably got me from A to B. But before I knew it, the focus had shifted. It began to evolve into something far more purposeful, with lightweight performance at its heart.
My obsession with this now rarely-seen model began when I was 12 years old, while out walking the family dog. On my route, I spotted a black Ignis Sport with a sticker-bombed tailgate – one of the coolest things I had ever seen. Beyond the peak styling mod, this new-to-me car featured unique Recaro LX-series ‘fishnet’ seats, a full body kit, and white 15-inch Enkei rally-style wheels – all factory items.
My interest was piqued, so once I was back home, I immediately started doing my research. I learned that the Ignis Sport (known as the Swift Sport in Japan) was inspired by Suzuki’s 2002 Junior World Rally Championship (JWRC) entry and was only manufactured from 2003 to 2005. The car was powered by a 1.5L DOHC 16-valve naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produced around 110hp in its European specification, backed by a 5-speed close-ratio gearbox driving the front wheels. Weighing just 900kg (1,984lb) with firm suspension to hold it on the road, the Ignis Sport could go 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 185km/h (115mph).
A Pinterest board followed, filled with photos of different Ignis Sports I found online. One car in particular was lowered on a set of white Buddy Club P1s. I knew that as soon as I got one, these were the wheels I needed.
In 2020, I achieved my dream by purchasing a 2004 Ignis Sport in blue. After completing basic maintenance on the Suzuki, I began to focus on enhancing its handling – installing BC Racing coilover suspension, upgrading the brakes for extra performance, and fitting grippy Michelin Pilot Sports tyres to, you guessed it, P1 wheels.
You could say the bug had bitten, and before long, I had gutted the interior in anticipation of a basic six-point roll cage. Most recently, I had the Ignis fully stitch-welded to further increase rigidity and had the entire underside of the car restored. Other upgrades have included a Cusco limited-slip differential and a custom exhaust system.
What began as a curious sighting on a childhood dog walk has become my automotive passion as an adult.
The highlight of ownership so far has been a trip from the UK to the Nürburgring last year, where I completed seven laps of the Nordschleife. It was fantastic fun, and I hope to get out there again sometime soon.
I had one of these for a time, but unfortunately without the Recaro fishnets. It was really good fun to drive but a bit of a nightmare to get spares for (rear calipers specifically). I’ve also driven Nordschleife many times but unfortunately not in the Ignis, I imagine the trip is quite tiring with such a short 5th gear?!
Yours looks a great example, it’s brilliant to see these being looked after.