Suzuki is still a brand that's arguably better known in the U.S. for motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles than for its passenger cars. Still, the Japanese automaker has been selling vehicles in the U.S. since 1985, and its current model line includes the subcompact SX4 and the Grand Vitara compact crossover SUV. For 2010 the company takes a major step up into the hotly contested midsize sedan market with the all-new Kizashi.
Easy to like, but less so to pronounce, the Kizashi (KEE-zah-shee) is a worthy alternative to segment stalwarts like the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry.
The sedan stands apart in a crowded parking lot with an aggressively broad-shouldered exterior profile. There's a bold black cross-hatch-patterned grille up front, with compound curves that reach effortlessly rearward, culminating in a tall and distinctively rounded trunk lid. It's a pleasing design that's neither too conservative nor overly flashy.
The Kizashi's roomy interior is attractive and accommodating, with generous use of high-quality materials and a keen attention to details that exudes sophistication. The padded grab-handles on the doors are especially rich feeling. The center stack of controls is nicely executed, with faux aluminum trim that sweeps upward and outward across the dashboard. Switchgear and displays are large and legible, though it's a reach to get at the top-mounted radio controls. The instrument panel gauges are stylish but busy; a simpler design with larger numbers would have been more in character with the rest of the cockpit.
Front seat legroom is generous, and the Kizashi is one of the rare import sedans in which there's sufficient seat travel to suit even the tallest drivers. There's plenty of room in the back for three adults, provided the front seats aren't in their rearmost positions; six-footers may have to contort themselves a bit when entering and exiting the rear cabin, however.
The trunk is spacious, with a tall opening that's sufficient to swallow large suitcases. The rear seats split-fold on a 60:40 basis to expand the car's cargo carrying abilities, but the smallish opening into the rear cabin is restrictive. Also, the seat backs don't lock when upright, which tends to compromise trunk security.
The Kizashi is an admirable performer, thanks to its peppy 180 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (unlike most midsize models, a V-6 isn't offered). It comes mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that eschews gears for a belt and pulleys to deliver unremitting acceleration without pausing to shift. Unfortunately it also makes the engine sound incessantly whiny under full throttle. Fuel economy is reasonably frugal. Our test version averaged 25 mpg in lead-footed city/highway use.
The sedan's steering and suspension systems are tuned on the sporty side, for handling that's more responsive than the norm, but without producing an unduly harsh ride in the bargain. To that end its steering may feel a bit heavy for some motorists, especially those accustomed to the effortless - some might say detached - feel of the wheel on softly sprung cars like the Camry. Sixteen-inch wheels are standard. The SE model has 17-inch rims and rubber, and the GTS and GLS versions sport 18-inchers.
Our tester came with the optional all-wheel-drive system (front drive is standard), which few models in this class offer. Blessed with idyllic spring weather, we had no occasion to test its mettle, but it's likely worth the $1,250 cost for those living in areas that suffer the worst Mother Nature has to offer.
With a base model that starts at an affordable $18,999, the Kizashi comes standard with upscale amenities including keyless push-button start, steering wheel audio controls, automatic dual-zone climate control and no less than eight air bags (including rear seat-mounted, side-impact airbags). The top-shelf SLS version comes loaded with goodies like a power moon roof, heated leather seats, premium audio system, rear parking sensor, rain-activated windshield wipers and a Bluetooth cell-phone link, yet stickers for just $26,749 with an automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive.
On the downside, the Kizashi is not likely to enjoy the healthy resale value of a Camry or Accord, and there are far fewer Suzuki dealers in the U.S. for sales and service than with most mainstream brands. Yet, it comes with an industry leading 100,000-mile/seven-year powertrain warranty, which may help seal the deal for value-hungry buyers.
