Suzuki, known for motorcycles, compact SUV's, and subcompacts, adds a smartly styled mid-sized sedan to their lineup with the 2011 Kizashi. The Kizashi boasts a sporty exterior, a nimble ride, and a spacious interior equipped with a generous array of luxury features.
The Kizashi's black mesh grille, integrated exhaust outlets, and standard multi-link rear suspension and KYB performance shock absorbers all set the tone. Trims for the Kizashi are Base S, SE, the sporty GTS, and the top of the line SLS. Our GTS test model came with fog lights and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Kizashi's single engine offering is a 2.4-liter inline-4 generating a respectable 185 horsepower and 170 pound feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through either a 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. All wheel drive models are equipped with the continuously variable transmission and a deactivation switch that delivers on-demand access to the improved fuel economy of front wheel drive.
Here are the highest and lowest EPA estimates for fuel economy:
The Kizashi's aggressive exterior styling is met by a sharp, luxury-inspired interior. Standard equipment includes front sport bucket seats, 60/40 split-fold rear bench, and a tilt telescoping multifunction steering wheel.
Our test model came equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, push button start, a 425-watt Rockford Fosgate stereo with 10-speakers, and dual zone climate control.
Standard safety features include 4-wheel antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a full array of front and side impact airbags.
Base MSRP for the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi is $18,999. An all wheel drive SLS model starts at $27,149.
The Kizashi is backed by a 7-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With its aggressive design, nimble handling, and a wealth of features, the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi fits the bill for an attractive small sedan, in content, performance and style.