2010 Suzuki Kizashi Review

Overview

The all new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi, Suzuki's first all-wheel-drive mid-size sport sedan, delivers the sophistication and driving experience of premium sport sedans for the price of an ordinary midsize car. Suzuki claims that the Kizashi is an uncommon blend of the emotionally satisfying elements of fine European sedans and the virtues of modern Japanese car ownership. The all new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is available in S, SE, GTS and SLS trims.

Power and performance

The Kizashi is equipped with a 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine rated at 185 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm with the six-speed manual transmission. When mated to the performance-tuned CVT, the 2.4 liter DOHC inline four delivers 180 HP @ 6,000 rpm. The estimated fuel economy figures stand at 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway on the S model (regardless of powertrain), while the other trims achieve 20/29 with the six-speed manual, 23/30 with front-wheel drive and CVT, and 22/29 with all-wheel drive and CVT. Front-wheel drive is standard and the all-wheel drive is optional on all models. The cargo capacity stands at 13.3 cubic feet.

Body and styling

The Kizashi S rolls on standard with 16-inch steel wheels with keyless ignition/entry and is equipped with full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control for comfort along with a height-adjustable driver seat. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a nine-speaker stereo with CD player, USB port/iPod interface and satellite radio are among the key features. With the CVT, the S gets cruise control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SE rides on 17-inch alloy wheels and has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and an eight-way power driver seat with memory settings. The GTS features a sunroof, steering wheel shift paddles (CVT), 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a 10-speaker Rockford Fosgate stereo and Bluetooth phone connectivity/audio streaming. The top of the line model Kizashi SLS is well equipped with automatic headlamps, and rear parking sensors on the exterior. Inside, it features highly comfortable leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. All trims can be equipped with all-wheel drive, which also adds heated mirrors.

Safety Features

Antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard on all Kizashi models.