The Kizashi is intended as a halo vehicle for the rapidly maturing Suzuki lineup.
Known primarily as a maker of small vehicles and high-performance motorcycles, this car is a first entry into the all-wheel-drive sport saloon segment.
Yup, you read that right; The Kizashi is offered with Suzuki's next generation i-AWD system, a rare option in this class.
Activated when the driver selects the "AWD" switch on the instrument panel, power to the rear wheels starts immediately upon acceleration.
Torque split remains dependent on several factors, including wheel slippage and throttle input.
Built at Suzuki's brand-new manufacturing facility in Sagara, Japan, the 2010 Kizashi is equipped with a standard 2.4-litre DOHC inline four-cylinder engine.
The engine is connected to a six-speed manual transmission, although customers may opt for an available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
In addition, Suzuki is developing an even more fuel efficient hybrid version that will be added to the lineup in the future.
Aimed the North American market, no decision has been made yet on whether the Kizashi will be offered here in the UK.
Posted on 31.07.2009
