2010 Suzuki Kizashi: First Look
- Competes with: Subaru Legacy, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion
- Looks like: Suzuki has actually designed an interesting sedan
- Drivetrain: 2.4-liter four-cylinder with six-speed manual or CVT; front or all-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: Winter 2009
Suzuki showed off a promising concept version of the Kizashi last year, and now the company’s delivered on the Kizashi in production form. While the front end isn’t as sleek and daring, the overall look is quite handsome. The back is where things really get interesting, with the entire trunklid rising up in a curve to form a solid-spoiler look. It really is unlike anything else on the market.
What market is Suzuki trying to get into with the Kizashi (Japanese for “something great is coming”)? The ultra, ultra competitive midsize sedan market. At 183.1 inches long, the Kizashi is shorter than the competition, though; the Toyota Camry is 189.2 inches long, the Subaru Legacy is 186.4 inches and the Volkswagen Jetta, which the Kizashi resembles from some angles, is 179.3 inches long.
Interior dimensions haven’t been released yet, nor have power or mileage ratings. We do know this about the engine: Only a 2.4-liter four-cylinder will be available, teamed to a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission with paddle shifters. All-wheel-drive models will come only with the CVT. The engine in other Suzukis puts out 166 hp, which would be on par with other four-cylinders in the segment.
Suzuki also sets itself apart by offering optional all-wheel drive. Only the Subaru Legacy offers all-wheel drive with a four-cylinder engine in the class, with Ford’s Fusion offering it only on V-6 models.
We can’t comment on trunk space or interior room, but from the images supplied it appears there are folding rear seats to expand the cargo area. The interior looks like it will be typical Suzuki quality or slightly better, but we’ll have to wait until we see it in person to say for sure.
There will be three trim levels, starting with the base SE, GTS and SLS. All-wheel drive will be available on all three. Standard equipment includes push-button start ignition, stability control, dual-zone automatic climate control and USB connectivity. GTS and SLS trims get standard steering-wheel audio controls, while the SLS gets standard heated seats.
