The Kizashi, Suzuki's entry into the midsize sedan segment. It intends to offer a sporty driving dynamic as well as offering a good value or bang for the buck status that is lacking in many of the cars in this category. Due to its lower price, this may appeal to many perspective buyers who are put off by or simply unable to afford, the high price of entry into this category. For your money, you will still get some premium features. A dual zone climate control system, multi function steering wheel, and keyless ignition are all standard. On the higher trim levels power driver's seat and leather interior are available as well. The Kizashi maintains a sporty look, good driving dynamics, and a better overall interior quality that any Suzuki models in the past. The lack of a V-6 option keeps it from competing with the top end of the midsize sedan market, but it will still appeal to many who don't need the extra power.
The sole engine option is a 2.4 liter four cylinder good for 185 Hp and mated to either a 6 speed automatic or a CVT.
The Range
Bodystyles: 4-door sedan
Engines: 2.4-liter I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, CVT
Models: S, S AWD, SE, SE AWD, GTS, GTS AWD, SLS, SLS AWD
What's New
In the Kizashi's case, it's an entire philosophy, as the 2010 Kizashi is an all-new model from the ground up. Suzuki's first serious midsize sedan entry focuses for the first time on building a superior vehicle -- not just offering a low-cost alternative.
Exterior
The Kizashi looks sporty from first glance. With a low roofline, short tail and 18-inch wheels as standard in the upper trim levels, Suzuki has built a sedan that just begs to be driven -- and driven hard.
Interior
While the Kizashi is short relative to the competition, overall interior space is very good, with plenty of room for those over six-feet tall in the front or rear seats. Cabin materials are high quality and a tilting/telescoping steering wheel is standard.
Performance & Handling
On the road, the Kizashi rides comfortably, yet firmly. Body roll is moderate, but the Kizashi turns in with an eagerness that is against the class norm and delivers minimal understeer, especially for a front-wheel-drive sedan. The 185-horsepower four-banger is more than up to the task and with the manual transmission, the Kizashi feels just like a mini sports sedan -- light, nimble, and willing.
Safety
Front driver and passenger front airbags are standard on the Kizashi, as are front and rear side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags. Traction control and stability control are also both standard.
EPA Fuel Economy
S: 21mpg city/31mpg highway (manual); 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway (automatic)
GTS, SLS: 20 mpg city/29 mpg highway
SE, GTS, SLS, S AWD: 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway
SE AWD, GTS AWD, SLS AWD: 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Sporty driving dynamics
- Available manual gearbox
- Willing four-cylinder engine
- Available all-wheel drive
You Won't Like
- Waiting for a higher-power engine option
- Five fewer horsepower with the CVT
- Waiting for a hybrid
Sum Up
The budget midsize sport sedan
If You Like This Vehicle
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Sonata
- Mazda6
- Toyota Camry
- Volkswagen Passat