2010 Suzuki Kizashi

The all-new Suzuki Kizashi comes in four trim levels: S, SE, GTS and SLS. All are fitted with a 2.4L inline four that features twin balance shafts and variable intake valve timing, producing 185 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. With the exception of the SE, all are available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic. Suzuki expects the SE to be its top seller and it's only available with the CVT. An available all-wheel-drive system features a clutch-pack-type center differential that can be run in 2-wheel-drive mode to help save fuel and is only offered with the CVT.

Handing is a high point for the new Kizashi, with independent suspension on all four corners that's been tuned to give a sporty feel while still maintaining a comfortable ride with minimal road noise over varied surfaces. Standard electronic stability control has been tuned to not be obtrusive during spirited driving. The manual-equipped S has been rated at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, with other trims achieving 23/30 mpg with the CVT and front-wheel drive and 22/29 mpg with the CVT and the available all-wheel-drive system.

The Kizashi measures out at 183.1 inches nose to tail, riding on a 106.3-inch wheelbase with a track width of 61.6 inches. It's slightly smaller than the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but is larger than the Honda Civic and Volkswagen Jetta. Trunk space measures in at a healthy 13.3 cubic feet and a folding 60/40 rear seat add extra space for longer items.

The basic S comes standard with 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, push button start, full power accessories, dual zone climate control, 9-speaker stereo with iPod/USB interface and satellite radio, tilt and telescopic steering column and a height adjustable driver's seat. When fitted with the CVT automatic, the S is fitted with cruise control and a leather-covered steering wheel. The SE adds 17-inch wheels, cruise control and leather-covered wheel and an 8-way power driver's seat with memory. The GTS gets 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the CVT, sunroof and a 10-speaker Rockford-Fosgate stereo with Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming. Finally, the top of the line SLS comes equipped with rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, leather upholstery with heated front seats, power passenger's seat and auto-dimming rearview mirror. All-wheel-drive adds heated side mirrors to all trim levels.

Optional equipment includes Suzuki's i-VSP intelligent vehicle stability program on AWD models only and an available rear-view camera and touchscreen GPS on GTS and SLS models.
The Suzuki Kizashi is all-new for 2010 and represents a fundamental shift from Suzuki's past appliance-like lineup. It's significantly different throughout with a European-styled interior and inspired handling characteristics and standard features include front-wheel-drive, disc brakes and front and side curtain airbags. A 2.4L inline four is the only engine option, mated to either a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic. All-wheel-drive is optional.
Numerous standard features, excellent overall handling, available all-wheel drive, good value for the dollar.
The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is an all-new mid-sized sedan that takes direct aim at the market-dominating Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Jetta and Nissan Altima. It's well suited for those looking for performance in a family sedan and it's a complete departure from Suzuki's past, featuring both European-inspired handling and design. With prices starting at $19,734 for the base S model, it's an affordable and capable alternative that Suzuki hopes will change the company's worldwide market share, starting in the U.S.