The Suzuki Kizashi was first introduced in 2009. However, four year later, the Japanese automaker announced that the Kizashi will be removed from the brand’s global model lineup as it failed to generate a significant amount of unit sales. In Japan, the word Kizashi means “omen,” “something great is coming,” or “warning.” it was Suzuki’s forerunner when it comes to sedans. It even exceeded the regulations set by the Japanese government on the exterior dimensions and engine displacement for vehicles under ‘compact.’
Launch
The Suzuki Kizashi was launched in 2009. It went through a facelift where the front architecture and interior had a minor update. The GLS and SLS models got a facelift. The suspension is lowered by 10mm for a sportier dynamic, and to showcase the Kizashi’s two top levels. It was renamed Sport SLS and GLS. The Kizashi SE will remain the same from the present 2010 model.
Exterior
The Kizashi has 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels, power tilt/slide sunroof including one-touch open/close, a sport aero body features including an aero bumper fascia, a unique lower grille, and chrome fog light surround accents. It also has an exclusive aero body side sills with embedded chrome accents, a rear decklid spoiler with center high mounted stop lamp, projector-beam headlamps with auto on/off, fog lamps, front fender redundant turn signal indicators, heated exterior mirrors, and rain-sensing wipers.
Interior
Included on the interior of the Kizashi is a front sport bucket seats with seatback map pockets, 10-way power driver seat with power lumbar and 3-position memory, power passenger seat. It also features leather seat trim, heated front seats, 60/40 folding rear seat with venter pass through with rear armrest with slide-out cup holders, leather-covered tilt/telescopic sport steering wheel with perforated grips with illuminated cruise and audio controls.
Moreover, the Kizashi comes with paddle shifters, TouchFree smart key entry with push-button ignition system, HomeLink universal transceiver, power windows with front auto up/down, power door locks, voice-activated navigation system, dual-zone auto climate control, among others.
Technology & Safety Features
The Suzuki Kizashi has an anti-lock brake system with brake assist, advanced electronic stability control with traction control, daytime running lights, advanced driver/front passenger airbags, front/rear side impact airbags, front/rear curtain airbags, child safety rear door locks, rear proximity sensors, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Platform & Chassis
The Suzuki Kizashi comes with an independent type front suspension as well as a multi-link rear suspension.
Engine & Drivetrain
The Suzuki Kizashi has a 2.4L engine that can produce 185 hp at 6,500 rpm (manual transmission) and 180 hp at 6,000 rpm (CVT). It can produce 230 Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. It comes with an all-wheel-drive drivetrain.