Rumormill: Suzuki Kizashi to receive VW hybrid, diesel powertrain?

Back when Volkswagen announced that it was teaming up with Suzuki, the discussion focused mainly on the development of small cars for emerging markets. Now, the rumormill is blazing with speculation that Suzuki is looking to secure a VW powerplant for use in its midsize Kizashi sedan.

Suzuki feels that the Kizashi's only engine, a 2.4-liter DOHC four-cylinder that cranks out 185 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, lacks sufficient power to push the Kizashi to be a top performer in its class and doesn't allow Suzuki's sedan to compete in the fuel efficiency wars in the midsize hybrid segment.

Apparently, this is where VW steps in. According to rumors swirling around, VW could supply Suzuki with a punchy V6 engine, a hybrid powertrain or even a diesel mill for use in the Kizashi. While there's no indication that Suzuki is officially interested in sourcing a couple of powertrains from its new partner, we'd venture to guess that a V6 engine, or even a gas-electric setup, would make the midsize Kizashi more competitive and could potentially lead to additional sales.

Photos copyright ©2011 John Neff / AOL

[Source: Ward's Auto]