Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/2010-suzuki-kizashi-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/2010-suzuki-kizashi-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/2010-suzuki-kizashi-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

We liked our time behind the wheel of the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It drives like a little sports sedan and doesn't look half bad, and now Suzuki's newest sedan has another attractive quality: it's priced to sell. The Kizashi will start at $18,999. The base Kizashi isn't exactly a stripper model either, as power windows, doors and mirrors are standard along with a nine-speaker stereo, eight airbags, stability control and ABS.

Move up to the SE model that ranges in price from $21,499 to $22,749 and enjoy 17-inch alloys, a power driver's seat, leather steering wheel and cruise control. The next model is our personal favorite, the GTS. The sportiest of Kizashi models comes with a six-speed manual or a performance-tuned CVT (get the manual) for $22,499 to $24,849. Among its standard features are an up-level 425-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system with ten speakers, Bluetooth audio capability, hands free calling and voice command. Also standard are 18-inch wheels and a power moon roof. The top-shelf SLS model ranges from $24,399 to $26,749 and includes luxury amenities like heated leather seats, a universal garage door opener, auto head lamps, proximity sensors and rain sensing wipers.

All of the aforementioned prices are subject to Suzuki's $735 destination and shipping charge.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi


[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k

2010 Suzuki Kizashi to start under $19k originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 suzuki kizashi2010SuzukiKizashikizashikizashi pricingKizashiPricingsuzukiThu, 05 Nov 2009 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Custom Suzuki Kizashi models impress, upset]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-custom-suzuki-kizashi-models-impress-upset/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-custom-suzuki-kizashi-models-impress-upset/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/sema-2009-custom-suzuki-kizashi-models-impress-upset/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Delta Tech Engineering Suzuki Kizashi - Click above image for high-res gallery

We totally dig the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It's a bold step forward for Suzuki and (hopefully) a harbinger of great things to come, which also happens to be what "Kizashi" means. However, the looks are a little, well... not outstanding. Not that it's particularly bad-looking (it ain't), but what if it were a little more... special? SEMA to the rescue!

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery, but how about some background info up front? First up is Delta Tech Engineering's car which might be our favorite. Delta Tech specializes in lighting and every light on the car is either LED or HID. Even though big mouth-look grilles are on the way out fashion-wise, we like the snout on this guy. We also like the fact that it has a cold air intake, custom exhaust and Koni coilovers.

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi, the Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi pushes all the right buttons with an even more aggressive body kit. It also features a custom air intake, engine management system and data logger. You also get 13-inch slotted rotors up front (though "only" 10-inches out back). Custom springs, sway bars and chassis stiffeners round the package out.

[UPDATE: We wrongly identified Westside's Kizashi as Import Tuner's car. A total mistake on our (my) part. Sorry 'bout that.]

Lastly, we've got Westside's custom Kizashi - a car we just can't wrap our heads around. From the Frankenstein's Monster neck-bolts as exhaust tips to the bizarre two-tone paint job to the Jianghuai GIGANTIC grill, we're totally, 100% not in love. And that's that.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Suzuki Kizashi Customs

SEMA 2009: Custom Suzuki Kizashi models impress, upset originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Suzuki Kizashi2010SuzukiKizashiDelta Tech EngineeringDelta Tech Engineering MizashiDeltaTechEngineeringDeltaTechEngineeringMizashiKizashiRoad Race KizashiRoadRaceKizashiSEMASEMA 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowSuzukisuzuki carsuzuki carsSuzuki KizashiSuzukiCarSuzukiCarsSuzukiKizashiThu, 05 Nov 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki dresses up a Kizashi for Halloween]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/suzuki-dresses-up-a-kizashi-for-halloween/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/suzuki-dresses-up-a-kizashi-for-halloween/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/suzuki-dresses-up-a-kizashi-for-halloween/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2010 Suzuki Kizashi Concept- Click above for high-res image gallery

The boys and girls at Suzuki got into the Halloween spirit and dressed up a new Kizashi to celebrate the day. So what kind of costume would you put on a new sedan that aspires to redefine the company and show that this small carmaker can play with the big boys?

Much like a kid who slaps a giant "S" on his chest to transform into a superhero, this Kizashi put on a super-sedan's duds and thrust its chest out proudly. Looking for all the world like an Audi RS4 knockoff, this particular Kizashi was actually being readied for show duty at SEMA next week, where it'll join some of its siblings and preview some aero tweaks and chrome highlights that might eventually make it onto a production trim package for the Kizashi.

Although the differences were fairly minor, they worked together pretty well, giving the car a more aggressive and upscale look. Close examination of the photos will show a new lower front fascia with a jutting lip, chrome surrounds and blacked out honeycomb grille inserts. The sides get a similar redo with sill extensions and a chrome highlight strip. Meanwhile the tail gets a simple decklid spoiler with integrated cyclops. The final touch that makes this RS4 emulator work is the switch to Audi-like split-spoke alloy wheels. We'd say this tarted up Kizashi definitely looked more treat than trick.


Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi Sport Concept


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Suzuki dresses up a Kizashi for Halloween originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiAudi RS4Audi S4AudiRs4AudiS4KizashiSEMAsema 2009Sema2009suzukiSuzuki KizashiSuzukiKizashiSun, 01 Nov 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/sema-preview-suzuki-showing-kizashi-strong-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas starts next week, and lots of automakers will be in attendance with versions of their production vehicles that take tuning to a whole new level. Suzuki has a new vehicle to show off, the Kizashi mid-size sedan, and will be loading its lineup with four examples that show what you can do with your new Suze after driving it home from the dealer.

The four Kizashis were produced by Road Race Motorsports, Delta Tech Engineering, Westside Auto Group and Import Tuner magazine. Here's a brief rundown of what each tuner will bring to the table in terms of Kizashi tuning. The Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi (above) is definitely tuned for performance with upgrades to the suspension, braking, intake and exhaust. A number of custom body pieces were also bolted on to make this Kizashi better look the part. The Delta Tech Engineering Kizashi (below, left) is also performance oriented, but with a larger focus on weight reduction and handling. Westside Auto Group, meanwhile, created the Kizashi Soleil (below, middle), which is more than show than go with a custom body kit, custom two-tone paint and large 7-spoke wheels. Suzuki didn't provide images of the Import Tuner Kizashi and only hinted at what modifications it may contain, so we'll have to wait for SEMA to check out that one.



Finally, in addition to these four Kizashis, Suzuki will also have a custom Equator pickup by ICON Vehicle Dynamics (above right) that features some engine mods for the truck's 4.0-liter V6, a beefier suspension that provides more lift and bigger wheel/tire package.

You can check them all out in the gallery below and follow the jump for Suzuki's press release that contains all the specifics they're willing to talk about right now.


Gallery: Suzuki lineup for 2009 SEMA Show

Road Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiRoad Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiRoad Race Motorsport?s Platinum Edition KizashiDelta Tech Engineering Kizashi

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup

SEMA Preview: Suzuki showing Kizashi-strong lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kizashisemasema 2009Sema2009show showShowShowsuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki semaSuzukiKizashiSuzukiSemaThu, 29 Oct 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/2010-suzuki-kizashi-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/2010-suzuki-kizashi-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/2010-suzuki-kizashi-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Shut your eyes and say the word "Suzuki" out loud. Unless you're a moto-head or one of those rare Geo Metro fanatics (they exist, trust us), the image that springs to mind isn't very nice. Odds are that the car your subconscious conjures is tiny, cheap and bizarre. It's probably named something forgettable like "Aerio" or totally inaccurate (and forgettable) like "Esteem." Forgettable cars tend to attract forgettable customers. Don't believe us? Suzuki referred to their recent crop of owners as "subprime." Ouch. But, with that pain comes some truth. And in an industry long known for complete and total self delusion, Suzuki's admission was cathartic across both sides of the automaker/auto journo aisle.

The Kizashi drives better than basically everything in its class.
But what would cause Suzuki to be so blunt? A number of factors, as it turns out. For one thing, "subprime" is so 2008. Meaning that relying on folks with poor credit to snap up your cars because they're so cheap just ain't good business these days. Nor is outsourcing big, potentially huge moneymakers like seven-passenger SUVs to General Motors. There's nothing inherently wrong with the XL7 other than the fact that it's based on the Theta platform, just like the (defunct) Pontiac Torrent and Saturn Vue. Smartly, Suzuki has indefinitely suspended XL7 production. More importantly, rather than not making bad cars, Suzuki might just be in the middle of a product renaissance.

Those familiar with the plucky little SX4 are well aware that it's a great driving, high content, practical hatch that's incredibly inexpensive (name another car featuring all-wheel drive and navigation for under $18,000). But you may not know the SX4 is half-Fiat, penned by none other than Giugiaro and half-designed by the Italian giant. So what Suzuki needs to really pull off a rebirth (or at least the early stages of a rebirth) is a fully 100% Suzuki-designed car that's not just "good enough," but "better than." And according to Suzuki, the all new 2010 Kizashi is indeed such a vehicle. But is it?


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane

First Drive: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi drives brand out of basement, into fast lane originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Suzuki Kizashi2010SuzukiKizashiA Great Thing ComingAGreatThingComingfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveKizashiSuzukiSuzuki KizashiSuzukiKizashiFri, 16 Oct 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Cars & Coffee: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi gets shown off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/05/cars-and-coffee-suzuki-shows-off-its-new-kazashi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/05/cars-and-coffee-suzuki-shows-off-its-new-kazashi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/05/cars-and-coffee-suzuki-shows-off-its-new-kazashi/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Another week, another "debut" of sorts at Irvine's Cars & Coffee show. Last week we brought you pics of the Ford Ka and the Dunkel Brothers' luxury 4X4 RV, but this week it was Suzuki's turn to show off something new. Folks from the nearby Suzuki facility brought over an perfectly adequate SX4 and the car we were hoping to see in person, the all-new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. The lighting was pretty harsh, but hopefully you can see what we saw while there: namely, one handsome sedan.

It could easily wear a VW badge on that grille, but the car we heard it compared to more often was the Saturn Aura, itself a smart-looking four-door. While the Kizashi doesn't seem as big as the Saturn, it's being pitched as an alternative to the even larger Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, VW Passat and Ford Fusion. The fit and finish looked good on this pre-production car, and the Suzuki's interior looked pretty well turned-out. Glancing inside, we might have mistaken it for a 2010 Mazda3. Nice materials and textures, with simple, straightforward controls and gauges.

Although Suzuki has targeted the Accord and Camry with this new segment-stretcher, the Kizashi seems closer in size to the Civic and Corolla in the flesh. It's perhaps a bit bigger than those benchmarks, but at least in this color and in this setting it didn't seem like the large midsize vehicle the class leaders are. At any rate, the Suzuki Kizashi is a good-looking sedan that should drive pretty well if reports are to be believed. It ought to be a bargain, too, with prices starting in the low-to-mid 20s. Hopefully, it won't be a case of too little too late if Suzuki can't draw more customers into its dealerships.


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi at Cars & Coffee



Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Cars & Coffee: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi gets shown off originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Sep 2009 20:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kizashi2010 suzuki kizashi2010Kizashi2010SuzukiKizashicars and coffeeCars CoffeeCarsAndCoffeeCarsCoffeekizashisuzuki kizashiSuzukiKizashiSat, 05 Sep 2009 20:19:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Suzuki Kizashi hybrid sedan tipped for 2011 sales]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/report-suzuki-kizashi-hybrid-sedan-tipped-for-2011-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/report-suzuki-kizashi-hybrid-sedan-tipped-for-2011-sales/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/report-suzuki-kizashi-hybrid-sedan-tipped-for-2011-sales/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki has big plans for its new Kizashi midsize sedan. Not only is the Kizaski going up against the best selling automobiles in America (the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, that is), it's also reportedly tipped to carry the Japanese automaker's environmentally-friendly ambitions to new heights here in the States.

According to Japan's Nikkei newspaper (via Bloomberg), Suzuki's new midsizer is slated to offer an optional hybrid powertrain for 2011. A gas-electric motivator has been mooted for Kizashi for some time, but this is the first time a firm timetable has been established for the vehicle. If there's any truth to the rumor, this will make the Kizashi Suzuki's first hybrid automobile.

There aren't any details on the expected powertrain, but rumor has it the technology will come from longtime American partner General Motors. That means the Kizashi will either come equipped with GM's BAS mild hybrid system or the much more sophisticated and fuel efficient (and therefore expensive) 2-Mode setup.

For it's part, Bloomberg rather ambiguously informs that Suzuki "spokesman Hideki Taguchi declined to deny the report."


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

2010kizashi_official0002010kizashi_official0012010kizashi_official0022010kizashi_official0032010kizashi_official004-1248984638

[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Suzuki Kizashi hybrid sedan tipped for 2011 sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kizashi2010 suzuki kizashi2010Kizashi2010SuzukiKizashi2011 kizashi2011 kizashi hybrid2011 suzuki kizashi2011 suzuki kizashi hybrid2011Kizashi2011KizashiHybrid2011SuzukiKizashi2011SuzukiKizashiHybridkizashikizashi hybridKizashiHybridsuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki kizashi hybridSuzukiKizashiSuzukiKizashiHybridMon, 17 Aug 2009 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Suzuki Kizashi sized up against the competition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/2010-suzuki-kizashi-sized-up-against-the-competition/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/2010-suzuki-kizashi-sized-up-against-the-competition/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/2010-suzuki-kizashi-sized-up-against-the-competition/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for official high-res image gallery

The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is being billed as the Japanese automaker's first entry into the U.S. market's mid-size sedan segment. Truth be told, Suzuki never calls the Kizashi a mid-size sedan in its official material, but rather uses the term "sport sedan". It's hard to tell based on pictures of the car (check out the full gallery of official high-res images below), but what exactly is the Kizashi going up against? The Camry and Accord or the Jetta and Corolla? After you've taken a look at the new gallery of images to get an idea for the Kizashi's class, follow the jump to see how it really sizes up against the competition.


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

2010kizashi_official0002010kizashi_official0012010kizashi_official0022010kizashi_official0032010kizashi_official004-1248984638

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sized up against the competition

2010 Suzuki Kizashi sized up against the competition originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 suzuki kizashi2010SuzukiKizashikizashisuzukisuzuki kizashiSuzukiKizashiThu, 30 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Live Reveal: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi unveiled!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/live-reveal-2010-suzuki-kizashi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/live-reveal-2010-suzuki-kizashi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/live-reveal-2010-suzuki-kizashi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've gone to some unusual places for new product unveilings, but today's reveal of a new mid-sized sedan from Suzuki may be one of the most ironic. For some reason, the small automaker of mostly small cars chose a World War II memorial in suburban Detroit for the global reveal of its most aggressive attack yet on the heart of the U.S. car market.

Suzuki has always been a bit of an outlier in this market, although the company has been a strong player in the Japanese mini-car scene. Its most successful entry to date here in the U.S. has been the compact SX4. Now, it's trying to encroach on Camry/Accord/Fusion territory. Learn all about where Suzuki is going and what to expect from the Kizashi after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Live Reveal


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

2010kizashi_official0002010kizashi_official0012010kizashi_official0022010kizashi_official0032010kizashi_official004-1248984638

Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Live Reveal: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi unveiled!

Live Reveal: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi unveiled! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsfeaturefeaturedfeatureskizashilive revealLiveRevealsuzukisuzuki kizashiSuzukiKizashiThu, 30 Jul 2009 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki Kizashi shows up a day before official unveiling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/suzuki-kizashi-shows-up-a-day-before-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/suzuki-kizashi-shows-up-a-day-before-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/29/suzuki-kizashi-shows-up-a-day-before-unveiling/#commentsFiled under: ,

Production Suzuki Kizashi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki has a big media event planned tomorrow to unveil its new mid-size sedan, which we're all still calling Kizashi though no moniker has been made official. We'll be at that event tomorrow, but apparently the Kizashi has already begun mingling. Assuming these shots aren't from the future, Suzuki held another event at some point, somewhere that featured the new Kizashi as the guest of honor.

As you'll recall, the production Kizashi's design is based largely on a trio of Kizashi concepts that made the auto show circuit rounds last year. The latest was the Kizashi 3 unveiled at the 2008 New York Auto Show. The production model is mightily toned down compared to the testosterone-infused concept, but still handsome, especially the sporty model in brown. We'll leave any more judgments aside until we meet the production Kizashi in person tomorrow, but you can view some more early images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Production Suzuki Kizashi revealed early

kizashipreview000kizashipreview001kizashipreview002kizashipreview003

[Source: Road Race Motorsports, Motive Mag via Next Autos]

Suzuki Kizashi shows up a day before official unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingkizashisuzukisuzuki kizashiSuzukiKizashiWed, 29 Jul 2009 16:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi caught in Colorado]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/reader-spy-2010-suzuki-kizashi-caught-in-colorado/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/reader-spy-2010-suzuki-kizashi-caught-in-colorado/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/reader-spy-2010-suzuki-kizashi-caught-in-colorado/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Suzuki Kizashi - Click either image for a high-res gallery

Spy shots of the upcoming Suzuki Kizashi are becoming rather common as the mid-size sedan gets ready to launch later this year, but what we've yet to see - what we've needed to see - is a shot of what's inside. Thanks to Autoblog reader Curtis Lewis, we finally have our first glimpse of the Kizashi's interior, and we've got to say, it's looking good.

While the design is hardly revolutionary, the materials appear to take a solid step above and beyond Suzuki's current offerings, with some tasteful wood and aluminum trim. The center stack is rather straightforward, but everything appears more fluid and refined compared to what we've seen in the past. The steering wheel is reasonably sized (not to big and not to small), complete with redundant controls for the stereo and possibly Bluetooth integration, and the seats have a fair amount of bolstering to compliment the leather surfaces.

The exterior hasn't changed much since the last batch of spy shots, and although it isn't nearly as swoopy and aggressive as the Kizashi 3 concept that we saw at the New York Auto Show, we're still encouraged by the sculpted haunches, angular trunk, stretched taillights and integrated exhaust tips. Too bad the front fascia looks like a Neon when coated in camo. Expect the Kizashi to debut in production form this December with a choice of a 2.5-liter inline four driving the front wheels or 3.6-liter V6 sending approximately 300 hp through all four.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi

Reader Spy: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi caught in Colorado originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 Suzuki Kizashi2010SuzukiKizashikizashispy shotsSpyShotssuzukiThu, 04 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Suzuki won't debut Kizashi in New York, still on schedule for December launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/suzuki-wont-debut-kizashi-in-new-york-still-on-schedule-for-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/suzuki-wont-debut-kizashi-in-new-york-still-on-schedule-for-de/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/03/suzuki-wont-debut-kizashi-in-new-york-still-on-schedule-for-de/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Suzuki Kizashi spy shots -Click above for a high-res gallery

An email recently went out from Suzuki to jurors who vote for the North American Car and Truck of the Year informing them that their upcoming midsize sedan would be on sale in the United States before the end of the year. We contacted Suzuki for more information and received confirmation that development of the car is on track and production will not be delayed.

Unfortunately, we'll need to wait a bit longer before seeing the Kizashi sedan in person. Despite previous reports pointing to an April debut at the New York Auto Show, that's not going to happen. Suzuki did confirm, though, that the car will make an appearance on the auto show circuit before hitting U.S. dealers in December, so stay tuned.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi in Germany


[Source: Suzuki]

Suzuki won't debut Kizashi in New York, still on schedule for December launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kizashinew york 2009new york auto showNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowny 2009ny auto showNy2009NyAutoShowsuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki midsize sedanSuzukiKizashiSuzukiMidsizeSedanFri, 03 Apr 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi spied in Germany]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/spy-shots-suzuki-kizashi-spied-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/spy-shots-suzuki-kizashi-spied-in-germany/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/spy-shots-suzuki-kizashi-spied-in-germany/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Suzuki Kizashi

When the Suzuki Kizashi 3 concept bowed in New York, we were smitten by the sedan's aggressive lines and low-slung stance. But after seeing some rudimentary patent drawings of the production model, we were seriously concerned that everything we loved about Suzuki's new sedan would be lost in translation. Finally, some glimmer of hope has arrived.

KGP caught a Kizashi mule in Germany before it set off on its mandatory 'Ring run, and with a modicum of camo and some artfully placed tape, the prototype laid most of our concerns to rest.

Although the exaggerated shape and massive fender flares of the concept has been eschewed for something a bit more sedate, the majority of the lines remain, along with the sculpted headlamps and broad rear shoulders. Unfortunately, things begin to go slightly awry in the rear, where the chunky C-pillar and 1-series look-alike lights join an upkicked trunk and a bulbous bumper. But overall, our gripes are minor, and with power rumored to be provided by either a 300 hp, 3.6-liter DOHC V6 driving all four wheels or a 2.5-liter four-cylinder putting power down to the front rollers, we think this might be the first in a string of new models from Suzuki that could finally bring it up to par with its cross-town competitors in Japan.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi in Germany

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept - Live Reveal

Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi spied in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Suzuki has teased us with three separate Kizashi concept cars and finally told us that a production vehicle based on the last concept would be coming to America in 2010. Work is apparently underway on the new Camcord competitor, and proof of Suzuki's efforts have appeared in a Southern California parking lot. Although the entire car is covered in camo, a few subtle details, including the grille and profile, appear to keep with the original concept, which garnered a substantial amount of acclaim when it was originally unveiled.

As pointed out by Autofiends, the Kizashi sedan looks a bit smaller than the vehicles it will be competing against, particularly when you consider that the Honda Accord has grown so large that it's now classified as a full-size car, akin to the Toyota Avalon and Buick Lucerne. We welcome the idea of a smaller and sportier option, especially one equipped with an offshoot of GM's 3.6-liter V6, which is expected to join Suzuki's Intelligent All-Wheel-Drive when the production Kizashi debuts next year.

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept - Live Reveal


[Source: Autofiends]

Spy Shots: Suzuki Kizashi prowls the strip mall originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kizashikizashi 2kizashi 3kizashi conceptkizashi spy shotskizashi2kizashi3KizashiConceptKizashiSpyShotssuzukisuzuki kizashisuzuki kizashi 2suzuki kizashi 3suzuki kizashi 3 con...suzuki kizashi conceptSuzukiKizashiSuzukiKizashi2SuzukiKizashi3SuzukiKizashi3Con...SuzukiKizashiConceptTue, 22 Jul 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Suzuki Kizashi concepts in the round and on the road]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/video-suzuki-kizashi-concepts-in-the-round-and-on-the-road/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/video-suzuki-kizashi-concepts-in-the-round-and-on-the-road/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/13/video-suzuki-kizashi-concepts-in-the-round-and-on-the-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above to view videos

Suzuki is said to be unveiling the Kizashi 3 at next week's New York Auto Show, so we thought we'd refresh our memories about the Manga-styled Kizashi 1 and 2 concepts we saw at the Frankfurt Motor Show and Tokyo Motor Show. There's still no information about what powertrain (we've heard talk of a V8) or platform any car derived from the Kizashi concepts would ride upon, but we like where Suzuki's going with the idea. We expect that the Kizashi 3 may be nearly production-feasible, from what Suzuki has to say. Does this mean there's a sports sedan in the offing for Suzuki? Possibly. Or not. For a taste of what it might be like to see one of these cars actually out in the wild, we've turned up some videos of the concepts riding around in a digital world, posted after the jump.

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi Concept


Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 2 Concept

Continue reading VIDEO: Suzuki Kizashi concepts in the round and on the road

VIDEO: Suzuki Kizashi concepts in the round and on the road originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 07:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptfrankfurtkizashinew yorknew york 08new york auto showNewYorkNewYork08NewYorkAutoShowshowshow carShowCarsports sedanSportsSedansuzukitokyovideoThu, 13 Mar 2008 07:26:00 EST<![CDATA[New York '08 Preview: Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 planned for debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/new-york-08-preview-suzuki-kisashi-concept-3-planned-for-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/new-york-08-preview-suzuki-kisashi-concept-3-planned-for-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/06/new-york-08-preview-suzuki-kisashi-concept-3-planned-for-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to enlarge

At the Frankfurt Motor Show last year we met the first Suzuki Kizashi Concept, a large sport wagon proof of concept that looked like a Dodge Magnum had crashed into a box of Anime. Next we encountered the Kizashi Concept 2 at the Tokyo Motor Show, which carried forward the first concept's design theme but applied it to a low-slung CUV body. At the New York Auto Show later this month, we'll meet the Concept Kizashi 3, the most production feasible Kizashi concept to date and the last one in the series. Cast in the form a sport sedan, the Concept Kizashi 3 portends a future performance four-door for the Japanese brand, and we're down with that given Suzuki hasn't played in this space with a decent offering, like, ever. We have no other information on Suzuki's big debut for New York, so no word on what powers it, which wheels are driven or what the interior's like, but we'll find out soon enough when Autoblog goes to Gotham.

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading New York '08 Preview: Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 planned for debut

New York '08 Preview: Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 planned for debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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click above image for more high-res shots of the Suzuki Kizashi Concept

Suzuki unveiled a stunner today at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show called the Kizashi, but unfortunately the automaker had no information to offer about the car in the form of a press release. Sans that important artifact, we can at least comment on the Kizashi's styling, which we liken to a Japanese interpretation of the Dodge Magnum. Kind of a slung back wagon, the Kizashi features a plunging grille flanked by headlights that follow it all the way down to the ground. Out back are a nice set of rear haunches in the form of muscular fenders topped by a C-pillar that leans back at an angle.

What's it powered by? Will it be made? Is Suzuki interested in selling a large car? Who knows, but it's probably in the press release, which if we ever receive will pass along to you. At least we have photos, all of which you can view in the gallery below.

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi Concept


Frankfurt 2007: Suzuki Kizashi arrives, but details on it do not originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click image to enlarge.

When we first posted on the Suzuki Kizashi concept set to make its debut next month in Frankfurt, we had no idea what the sedan would look like. Suzuki has now given us a hint in the form of an official sketch, and it's a doozy. The new image is exaggerated in the manner many sketches are, depicting a blazing red machine with a front end that resembles the Maybach Exelero in some respects and a chopped roof so low that it looks like it was made by a hot rodder with a cruel sense of humor. We're sure that in person, the proportions of the car will prove to be far more realistic. Kizashi literally means "prelude" according to Suzuki, a nod to this concept's role as a preview of a forthcoming production car.

[Source: Suzuki]

Frankfurt Preview: Suzuki releases sketch of Kizashi concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 01:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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