Review of The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

Suzuki has previously offered their larger unspectacular cars in the U.S. but in 2010 that will be changing as their new Kizashi rolls off the line. The new Kizashi goes on sale next month and is pronounced Kee-zah-shee. Those who know say it handles well, has plenty of power and is fun to drive on a road with lots of twists and turns, in other words a long curvy road. It is smooth riding, doesn’t beat up its riders on bad roads and has all wheel drive. It has eight air bags and electronic stability control. Side air bags are standard.

Image via Wikipedia

The Kizashi comes with either a 6 speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic. The interior is classy with a pebble like finish on the dash. The arm rest on the storage bin between the seats is cushioned and the sport seats has good lateral support. The folding rear seat split 40/60 is comfortable and includes a pass through for long items like skis.

The electronic stability control system isn’t overly intrusive. It’s programed not to kick in too soon so it doesn’t interfere with an enjoyable ride. The Kizashi has one engine, a 2.4-cylinder rated at 185 horsepower. It has not been announced if the company will offer a V-6 but one is being developed. Unlike it’s competitors that offer full time all wheel drives, the system on the Kizashi is engaged by pushing a button to the left of the steering wheel. The company said it wants to give owners the advantage of operating in the slightly more fuel efficient two wheel drive mode.

All models come with standard features,including push button starter, dual zone temperature controls and tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and side air bags for the back seats. With the manual, the Kizashi is rated at 21 miles a gallon in town and 31 on the highway. With the CVT, the estimate is 23/31 with front drive and 23/30 with all wheel drive.

The base front drive S with manual transmission starts at $19,734 and the top of the line SLS at $25,134. For all models add $1,100 to $1,500 for the CVT and $1,250 for all wheel drive.

http://athingforcars.com/driving-safety/know-your-car/

http://athingforcars.com/buying-selling/how-to-buy-a-new-car/

http://athingforcars/buying-selling/buying-a-used-car/

http://athingforcars.com/care-repair/how-to-change-a-tire/

http://quazen.com/recreation/autos/be-the-best-driver-on-the-road/