The Auto Writer

I’m glad that Suzuki reads this blog because no sooner had I mentioned last week that the US operation of this century old Japanese manufacturing giant was flagging in sales, did they officially announce their newest model, the Kizashi sport sedan. Seriously, the Kizashi has been a long time coming and its debut coincides nicely with Suzuki’s centennial celebration.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi

Just Another Midsize Sedan?

What the Kizashi brings to the market is yet another midsize sedan. You know, a five-passenger four-cylinder powered vehicle with standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT gearbox. But unlike similar sized sedans, the Suzuki Kizashi will offer paddle shifters, what some premium models offer to enhance the driver experience. All wheel drive is optional as it is in the Ford Fusion, which should help the new Suzuki find its place in its overcrowded segment.

Pronounced “Kee-Zah-Shee” the car’s name may trip over a westerner’s tongue but Kizashi “tells that something great is coming” which will be lost on everyone who doesn’t understand Japanese. Still, the sport sedan is handsome and a nice break from the compact cars and sport/utility vehicles that currently define Suzuki. By offering a larger car to customers who might normally abandon Suzuki once they outgrow their compacts, Suzuki can retain customers and perhaps regain some of its lost market share.

Sophisticated Braking, Handling

The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi will be powered by a 2.4L DOHC I4 engine paired with the previously mentioned transmissions. Speaking out what the sport sedan can do Suzuki says that, “…the Kizashi offers a newly developed advanced all-wheel-drive system with highly advanced controls that evokes and promotes a natural sense of heartfelt driving enthusiasm and safety. Kizashi’s sophisticated braking system offers standard four-wheel disc brakes and includes suppliers such as Akebono, a world-leader in NVH control and analysis and a leading brake supplier for automotive and high-speed rail applications.”

Among the features and amenities present in the Kizashi will be eighteen inch alloy wheels, standard sport seats, available leather seats with heat controls, electronic stability control, eight airbags, anti-lock brakes with brake force distribution, and a premium sound system.

Car of the Year?

Prices have yet to be announced for the new Suzuki believes that the soon to be introduced Kizashi is a contender for the North American Car of the Year award. That remains to be seen, but judging by its looks, it is easiest the best looking of the Suzuki bunch.

Source: Suzuki of America, Inc.