Suzuki today dropped the pricing details on its new 2010 Kizashi sedan, which arrives in dealerships in December 2009.

Pricing starts between $18,999 and $21,749 ($19,734 and $22,484 including destination and handling charges) for the entry level Kizashi S. Standard features on the 2010 Kizashi S sedan include push button keyless start, dual-zone climate control, 9-speaker audio with steering controls, EPS and ABS, projector beam headlamps, power windows, doors and mirrors, ambient lighting and 8 airbags.

The 2010 Kizashi SE model starts at $21,499 and $22,749; it comes with a 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat, 3-position memory driver’s seat, leather wrapped parking break and steering wheel with cruise control options and a CVT transmission.

The sporty 2010 Kizashi GTS model, available with a 6-speed manual or a CVT with paddle shifters starts at $22,499. It adds a 425 watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with 10 speakers, Bluetooth audio and calling capabilities, fog lights and power moon roof. The Kizashi GTS pricing tops out at $24,849.

The range-topping Kizashi SLS model builds on the GTS and adds leather seats, power passenger seat, heated front seats, dimming rear-view mirrors, Homelink Universal garage door opener, heated outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps. Prices range from $24,399 and $26,749.

Click here for more news on the Suzuki Kizashi.

Click through for the press release and the high-res gallery.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

Press Release:

SUZUKI ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR 2010 KIZASHI

With Kizashi, Suzuki delivers sophistication and driving experience of a premium sport sedan for price of a modest midsize car

* Kizashi is the best equipped mid-size sedan starting under $19,000, with volume models averaging between $22,000 and $24,000.
* Kizashi offers the most standard safety features in its price class and already meets the NHTSA’s 2014 safety standards.
* The AWD Kizashi, available in all trim levels with CVT transmission, can be purchased for less than some of the segment’s volume leading FWD sedans.

BREA, Calif. (Nov. 5, 2009) — Tapping in to its heritage of building high performance outboard motors and motorcycles, American Suzuki Motor Corp. today announces pricing for the all-new 2010 Kizashi sedan (pronounced “Kee-Zah-Shee”) which will debut in dealer showrooms in December 2009.

The Kizashi offers a unique blend of dynamic performance attributes, premium design aesthetics and craftsmanship yet to be experienced in this category. Suzuki expands on its best-in-class platform while offering features more appropriate to the near-luxury segment. In short, Kizashi delivers a premium package and experience without the premium price tag.

With the well-equipped entry-level Kizashi S priced between $18,999 and $21,749 (plus $735 for destination and handling), a prospective customer enjoys an energetic platform, comfortable accommodation and expressive design for prices appropriate to a modestly equipped compact. This base price includes many standard features usually found in vehicles costing thousands more or as options in the competitive class. Standard features of the Kizashi S include:

* 8 airbags (front/rear side and curtain)
* Pushbutton keyless start
* Dual-zone climate control
* 9-speaker audio with steering controls
* EPS Stability Control and ABS
* Projector beam headlamps
* Power windows, doors and mirrors
* Ambient and footwell lighting

The FWD Kizashi SE will cost a mere $2,500 more and will allow customers the benefit of the efficient and responsive continuously variable transmission (CVT), P215/55R17 tires on alloy wheels, power driver’s seat with 10-way adjustment (including power lumbar), 3-position memory driver’s seat, and leather wrapped parking break handle and steering wheel with cruise control. The Kizashi SE, with prices ranging from $21,499 to $22,749 (plus $735 for destination and handling), will be Suzuki’s volume model.

The sporty GTS model, available in six-speed manual or performance tuned CVT with steering wheel paddle shifters, starts at just $22,499 (plus $735 for destination and handling) and includes multiple upgrades from the SE model, including 425 watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system with 10 speakers, Bluetooth®1 streaming audio capability (with compatible MP3 and iPod®2 connectivity) and hands-free calling with voice command, P235/45R18 tires, fog lights and power moon roof. GTS pricing will top out at $24,849 (plus $735 for destination and handling).

The luxuriously appointed SLS model builds on the GTS and includes leather seats, power passenger seat, heated front seats, auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink®3 Universal garage door opener, heated outside mirrors, automatic rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps and rear proximity sensors with audible warning and graphic display. Prices for the lavish SLS range from $24,399 to $26,749 (plus $735 for destination and handling).

- By: Omar Rana

The 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show is just days away and Suzuki today announced its lineup that it will show off in Las Vegas next week.

Suzuki’s lineup at SEMA will feature four modified versions of the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan by Road Race Motorsports, Delta Tech, Westside Group and Import Tuner. A Suzuki Equator will also join the lineup – created by ICON Vehicle Dynamics.

Click here for more news on the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi.

You can read more about each Suzuki SEMA car in the press release after the jump.

Suzuki at the 2009 SEMA Show:

Press Release:

2009 SEMA SHOW SERVES AS BACKDROP FOR SUZUKI DREAMSCAPE

* Road Race Motorsports builds on Suzuki’s track-bred tradition.
* Delta Tech embellishes Kizashi’s premium (without the premium) assets.
* Westside Group enhances Kizashi’s European dynamic with of Europe’s dynamic.
* Import Tuner mods are both under the hood and over the top.
* ICON Vehicle Dynamics builds on Suzuki Equator’s award-winning platform.

BREA, Calif. (October 28, 2009) – While the Concept Kizashi series debuted globally over the past two years, (in Frankfurt, Tokyo and New York), U.S. anticipation for the production Kizashi was met by a number of custom builders – and members of Suzuki management – asking the proverbial “what if?” What if you melded Kizashi’s production underpinnings and artfully-crafted sheet metal with modifications fully appropriate to a concept’s debut? With European sport sedans serving as Kizashi’s inspiration, and Suzuki’s design and engineering team constructing a platform fully appropriate to a global marketplace, the all-new Kizashi serves as the perfect platform for those stylistic and performance mods integral to America’s motoring DNA. The challenge went out and four custom shops responded. The results of those combined efforts are on display next week at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.

Road Race Motorsport’s Platinum Edition Kizashi

As one of the first custom builders to recognize the potential of Suzuki’s vehicles, the presence of Road Race at SEMA comes as no surprise. Given the Kizashi platform’s promise – and the fluid, almost organic sheet metal clothing it – Road Race supplies its own very unique take on Kizashi.

SEMA visitors can enjoy Road Race’s Sport Body kit exterior which employs Carbontrix custom bumpers, rear spats and diffuser. Road Race has crafted a custom grill, vented hood and made the Kizashi its own ‘Platinum Edition’ graphics and a blackened roof. These visual modifications are supported by a platform perfectly suited to Las Vegas Motor Speedway or a high-speed drive on I-15 (what happens in Vegas doesn’t have to stay in Vegas…).

Progress Technology provided the sport springs and front and rear sway bars. Road Race installed its own chassis stiffeners, and Rotora brings the custom Kizashi to a stop with 330mm slotted rotors up front, supplemented by Road Race’s own 260mm slotted rotors in the rear. Under the vented hood, the sweetness continues with a proprietary custom intake system, Zeitronix ZT-2 data logging system and Road Race engine management. The modifications are concealed – until ignition – by a painted-to-match engine cover, and announced by Road Race’s own ‘Integrated Sport’ dual exhaust system. The Road Race Kizashi can be seen at the Zeitronix Booth #21212.

Delta Tech Engineering Kizashi

Delta Tech Engineering, a specialist in vehicle lighting, started with a gutted – and lightened – Kizashi body shell. While Delta Tech took care of under the hood, with cold air intake and performance exhausts, RK Sport developed a body kit, Katzkin supplied the custom seating, and Koni enhanced the Kizashi’s already composed ride with its own coilovers and shocks. Lighting, engineered in house by Delta Tech, is LED and HID. Sound equipment upgrades are provided by Kenwood. The Delta Tech Kizashi may be seen at Booth #23526 in the Central Hall.

Westside Auto Group Kizashi Soleil

Integrating vintage European elegance with the high-performance DNA of Suzuki’s Hayabusa, Westside Group’s Kizashi Soleil (French for ‘masculine sun’) incorporates numerous distinct touches, all executed to make an individualistic statement within the unique template supplied by Suzuki’s own execution. Vehicle modifications performed by Westside include custom two-toned paint (Napa Merlot/Bronzed Amber), redesigned front and rear fenders, custom air apertures, fabricated grill, shaved and modified door handles and new front fascia. In back, a redesigned rear deck lid equipped with a GT Super Car spoiler, and a redesigned rear bumper is equipped with custom Yoshimura exhaust. Planting the Soleil to the ground are early-release Bridgestone Potenza mounted on R-Worx 7-spoke wheels. The Westside Group Kizashi will be on display in the show car area adjacent to the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Import Tuner Kizashi

No outlet speaks better to the ‘tuner’ audience than Import Tuner magazine. With its Kizashi the project build team went for the vehicular jugular, with performance enhancements under the hood, appropriate suspension mods connecting those enhancements to the ground, and cosmetic modifications to provide the appropriate visualization for Import Tuner’s own editorial visualization.

With a nod to both the SEMA Show and its own Los Angeles – based roots, the Import Tuner Kizashi provides a tune-up to an already class-leading sport sedan.

ICON Vehicle Dynamics Equator

Using Suzuki’s award-winning Equator platform as its base, ICON Vehicle Dynamics taps into a variety of Southern California-based suppliers to assemble a more aggressive interpretation of Suzuki’s off-road recipe. Under the hood, Doug Thorley long-tube headers and cat-back exhaust amplify the Equator’s class-leading 4.0 liter V6. And for off-road exploration, the Equator’s suspension is enhanced with ICON’s own performance coilovers in front and 2.5-inch piggyback shocks supporting linked to Total Chaos upper control arms.

The enhanced power – and capability – is connected to the less-traveled path with Goodyear Wrangler MT/R tires mounted to Trail Ready bead-lock wheels; the Equator’s bodywork is protected by Bushwacker fender flares. AMP Research bed extender and LightForce lights add to both utility and safety. ICON’s Equator can be seen at SEMA booth #32173.

- By: Kap Shah

Depending on how well the new 2010 Kizashi sells in the U.S., Suzuki will decided whether or not to offer the next-generation Swift subcompact to us on the stateside. Performance of the Kizashi will also help officials determine whether or not to offer a V6 variant of its new mid-size sedan.

Speaking to the media at a recent press conference at the company’s headquarters in Hamamatsu, Japan, Senior Managing Executive Officer, and Executive General Manager, Automobile Engineering Takashi Nakayama said that the Swift could be made to meet U.S. regulations if the Japanese automaker decides to do so.

Before 2009 sales faced a significant decline, a third-generation of the Swift for the U.S. was almost a done deal. However, the company is now reconsidering the model due to the expenses involved with certifying the Swift for the U.S. market.

During the launch of the U.S. launch of the Kizashi, Suzuki showed off a 260-hp V6 prototype - a hybrid model is also in the works.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: WOT

When Suzuki took the wraps off of its 2010 Kizashi earlier this year, it said that the new sedan will be powered by a 185-hp 2.4L DOHC inline 4-cylinder mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It said that a V6 and hybrid variant of the Kizashi sedan are in the works.

Well, at a recent test-drive for the Kizashi sedan, Suzuki let the press get behind a V6 prototype of the car featuring a 3.6L V6 that produced around 260-hp. The V6 engine will only be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. While all-wheel-drive is optional on the Suzuki Kizashi with a 4-cylinder engine (which comes standard with FWD), the V6 model is expected to get AWD as a standard option.

Suzuki hasn’t given out a specific time for when it plans to launch the V6 powered Suzuki Kizashi, but said that it is pretty far along development and that the car is at Portland International Raceway for “chassis verification.”

Sales of the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan are scheduled to begin later this winter.

Click here to read our original post on the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Inside Line

Almost a month ago, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn said that Suzuki Motor Corp. would an interesting partner because of the Japanese automaker’s competency with small cars. According to a report by Automobilwoche, Volkswagen is now expected to take a stake in Suzuki by the end of 2009.

“We expect that there will be a basic agreement this year,” the publication quoted a Volkswagen executive as saying at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. ”For Suzuki and VW this connection would be a win-win situation. Suzuki would have access to a variety of VW’s technology, while Volkswagen would have a solid supporting leg in India and Southeast Asia.”

Volkswagen declined to comment, while Suzuki was unavailable for comment.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Reuters

Back in 2006, Suzuki reached its goal of selling 100,000 units in the United States aided by a trio of Daewoo-built vehicles. While Suzuki maintained that level in 2007, sales started to decline in 2008 as Suzuki failed to fill gaps in its lineup.

As Suzuki began to focus more on the SX4, a replacement for the Daewoo-built Reno and Forenza, Suzuki had forgotten about the mid-sized sedan segment… until now. In comes the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan, a model that will go on sale in the U.S. later this winter with prices starting around $20,000. A hybrid variant, most-likely co-developed with GM, is also planned for 2011.

What else does Suzuki have planned for its U.S. product offering?

The Suzuki Swift, which has been very popular in Japan and Europe, will come to the U.S. in 2011 and will be powered by 123-hp 1.6L engine, reports Automotive News. As For the Grand Vitara SUV, a redesign is due for 2013. Suzuki will also add a 166-hp, 2.4L 4-cylinder base engine and a rear-drive version for the 2010 model year.

The mid-sized XL7 crossover ended production when GM closed its CAMI joint venture with Suzuki. The automakers is now studying plans to replace the XL7 in the 2011 or 2012 model year with a crossover based on a stretched version of the Kizashi platform.

Seems like Suzuki is here to stay.

- By: Kap Shah

This first thing that grabbed our attention when we opened this press release was not the fact that the 2010 SX4 gets more power or better fuel-economy than its predecessor; no, it was the title “Suzuki Adds SX to the City.”

For 2010, Suzuki continues to offer America’s least expensive all-wheel-dive offering with 7 more horsepower and 4 extra pounds of torque. Power comes from a 2.0L 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine making 150-hp with a maximum torque of 140 lb-ft. When mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack returns an EPA estimated 22/30 mpg (city/highway). When mated to a CVT automatic, it returns an estimated 23/30 mpg.

Notable interior enhancements on the 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack include an upgraded navigation system with 3D graphics, lane guidance and Doppler weather maps. The 2010 model also gets folding rear seats and concealed storage behind the seats.

Pricing and availability details will be announced closer to launch.

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack:

Press Release:

SUZUKI ADDS SX TO THE CITY

* New SX4 SportBack adds enhanced level of ‘Sport’ to utility

* Refinements in drivetrain boost performance and efficiency

* America’s #1 Warranty underscores Japanese build quality and refinement

BREA, Calif. – Since its introduction in 2007, Suzuki’s SX4 Crossover has established a following by seamlessly blending the nimble handling of a compact five-door with the ‘adventure sport’ capability of standard all-wheel drive. Remaining, over its three model years, America’s least expensive automotive offering with all-wheel drive, the SX4 continues to capture media attention and praise. KelleyBlueBook.com has recognized the SX4 as one of its “Top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000,” while the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) awarded the SX4 with its “Yankee Value Award” for three consecutive years.

In 2008, Suzuki added to its menu a four-door, sport-oriented sedan, the SX4 Sport. With a lowered ride height, sport-tuned suspension and asphalt-specific rubber, the SX4 Sport continues to attract singles, couples, families and any car-shopper seeking quality, comfort and capability – minus the high cost normally associated with such a combination. The SX4 Sport delivers all the inherent value of the SX4 Crossover, and adds a chassis dynamic often reserved for those compacts with a German – and not Asian – pedigree.

With the 2009 model year boasting the addition of standard navigation – a segment first – Suzuki brings the SX4 Crossover into 2010 in an all-new guise, one combining the practicality of a five-door hatch and the neo-aggressive dynamic of a Eurocentric sport sedan. Sharing its profile – and utility – with the all-wheel-drive SX4 Crossover, the new SX4 SportBack brings to the generous greenhouse and usable two-box profile a handling dynamic fully appropriate to late braking and apex chasing.

The SX4 SportBack, of course, isn’t new territory for the design team at Suzuki. With its latest iteration of the Suzuki Swift – introduced in both Europe and Asia in 2005 – Suzuki has demonstrated its almost innate knowledge of both practical packaging and daring dynamic.

As the winner of numerous media awards – and consumer acclaim – the Swift fully matches the more established ‘hot hatches’ with its vehicular ‘groove,’ while substantially undercutting the segment in affordability. From its inception, the SX4 borrowed both the Swift’s handling DNA – along with select platform bits – to convey the spirit of a world-class entrant. And with the launch of the new SX4 SportBack, the various bits and pieces of earlier models have blossomed – at least dynamically – into a full-fledged cloning.

Beyond the SX4 SportBack’s functional modifications are visual enhancements to its exterior, and numerous refinements inside. This exterior/interior update makes the SX4 SportBack that much better for enjoying the enhanced driving experience. Outside, the SportBack prospects will note the deletion of the roof-mounted rack, along with the addition of a subtle – albeit effective – aero package, along with minor tweaks to both bumper and grille. A modest chin spoiler and side skirts direct air flow beneath the car, while a revised rear spoiler above the backlight better manages air over the car.

Inside, passenger comfort and convenience are addressed by more than a dozen improvements, including power windows and locks, dual power rearview mirrors, tilt steering wheel, trip computer, split folding rear seats and rear passenger floor vents. The SportBack’s interior trim enjoys an all-new instrument cluster, aluminum-look accents, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 and XM Satellite Radio® compatibility, a driver’s information center and armrest for the driver’s seat. Integrated navigation, made standard on the 2009 SX4, continues on the 2010 SX4 SportBack – with notable enhancements: Airline arrival and departures, 3D graphics, lane guidance and Doppler weather maps. In addition, the folding rear seats and concealed storage behind those seats provide a completely flat load surface, which is perfect for the SX4 SportBack’s activity-oriented consumer target.

The good news continues under the hood. Since its introduction, the SX4 has benefited from a full 2.0 liters of displacement. That capacity, a little more than 120 cubic inches, provides a competitive edge when contrasted with the bulk of the SX4’s competitive segment; there, displacements of 1.6-1.8 liters are more often the norm. With this newest iteration, however, Suzuki utilizes an all-new 2.0-liter engine, boasting five percent more horsepower and 4 lb.-ft. of additional torque, while delivering – in the EPA cycle – 30 highway miles per gallon. This, in a larger 2.4-liter displacement, is the same engine architecture scheduled for the soon-to-be-announced Suzuki sport sedan.

As before, the 16-valve valvetrain is controlled by dual overhead cams. From the same company building the world’s fastest production motorcycle, one might expect competitive performance, and this new 2.0 liter delivers: 150 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, in combination with 140 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. Beyond the numbers are a fluid delivery, instant responsiveness and a much smaller carbon footprint.

Connecting the improved powerplant to the SX4 SportBack’s front wheels is the choice of six-speed manual or all-new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). With the addition of an extra cog, the SX4 SportBack driver benefits from six degrees of separation, especially when placing the Suzuki in its competitive segment. Ratios are more closely spaced, allowing the driver to stay in the sweet spot of the powerband throughout the acceleration cycle. And while the closely spaced ratios improve acceleration when merging or passing, the overdrive sixth allows for relaxed cruising at highway speeds, optimizing the driving experience while minimizing the SX4 SportBack’s thirst.

For added urban convenience, the new CVT optimizes – via console-mounted gear selector or paddle shifters – both performance and efficiency, better maintaining the engine’s rpm ’sweet spot’ over a wide range of both in-town and freeway driving. The CVT, having already proven itself in both Asia and Europe, is enjoying an increased awareness and growing acceptance in North America.

The SX4 SportBack’s suspension retains MacPherson struts in the front, with a rear torsion beam in the back. Tuned to sport mode, and following the tradition of the urban-oriented SX4 sold in European markets, the SX4 SportBack benefits from a lower ride height, performance shocks and standard anti-roll bars. In testing by Suzuki’s platform team, steering and yaw performance, skid pad performance, braking and brake force control proved to be superior to the well-regarded Swift. Serving to further enhance the ride-and-handling balance are 17-inch alloy rims sporting 205/50 all-season Dunlops. The sticky, low-profile radials contribute to the SX4 SportBack’s sure braking, as do standard four-wheel, fade-resistant discs.

With more consumers interested in bringing to life the ‘fun’ in ‘functionality’, Suzuki expects the SX4 SportBack to further build on the SX4’s already-expansive appeal. Entering its fourth model year, Suzuki’s volume leader looks to turn up the volume, bringing the hot hatch segment to Suzuki showrooms throughout the country.

Technical Specifications – 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack

Wheelbase: 98.4 inches

Overall Length: 162.8 inches

Overall Width: 69.1 inches

Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine

Horsepower: 150 hp @ 6.200 rpm

Torque: 140 lb.-ft. @ 3,500 rpm

Transmission, Manual: Six-speed manual transmission

Transmission, Automatic: Continuously Variable

Brakes: Front ventilated disc brakes/Rear disc brakes; ABC with electronic brake force distribution

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates: 22/30 manual; 23/30 CVT

- By: Stephen Calogera

According to a report by Manager Magazine, Volkswagen could be interested in partnering up with Suzuki Motor Corp. CEO Martin Winterkorn told the German Magazine that Suzuki would be an interesting partner because of the Japanese automakers competency in small cars.

The magazine said that Volkswagen is interested in taking a 10 percent stake in Suzuki or forming a joint venture between the two automakers. Manager Magazine said that Renault is also interested in Suzuki.

Volkswagen was not available to comment on the report.

Suzuki’s CEO Osamu Suzuki told media in June that he had no contact with Volkswagen.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Retuers

Suzuki, which has been urged by analyst to forget about the North American market, is planning to start introducing gasoline-electric hybrid cars in the region in 2011 to meet growing demand for fuel-efficient cars.

Along with a 4-cylinder and V6 model, Suzuki will add a hybrid system to the Kizashi sedan. According to Japan’s Nikkei newspaper, Suzuki plans to use a hybrid system it co-developed with General Motors Company.

GM, which first invested in Suzuki in 1981, is also looking to develop fuel-cell vehicles with the Japanese automaker.

The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan will go on sale in the U.S. later this winter with prices to start around the high-teens to $20k.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Bloomberg

After the gorgeous concept unveiled at the 2008 New York Auto Show and all the anticipation for the production model, Suzuki finally unveiled the 2010 Kizashi yesterday for the North American market. Right off the bat you notice that the production model looks much different than the concept seen last year in New York.

Nonetheless, this is Suzuki’s first entry into the mid-size segment with hopes to compete against the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Even though analysts have suggested that Suzuki pull out of the North American market, Suzuki has no intentions of giving up on the United States. The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi will go on sale in the U.S. this winter and will be offered with front-wheel or all-wheel-drive. While at launch it will only be offered with a 2.4 DOHC inline 4-cylinder, a V6 and hybrid variant are in the works for the future.

So now that you’ve and learned almost everything (pricing will be announced closer to launch, although we’re pretty sure it’ll be cheaper than its rivals) about the 2010 Kizashi, would you consider buying one over the Accord or the Camry? Vote in the poll and if you have something to say – follow the jump for the comments section.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

- By: Omar Rana

After a little leak yesterday, Suzuki has unveiled the full details and high-res photos on its new 2010 Kizashi sedan, the company’s first entry into the all-wheel-drive sport sedan segment.

Scheduled to go on sale in North American showrooms this winter, the 2010 Kizashi will serve as Suzuki’s flagship vehicle and will be offered with either front-wheel or all-wheel-drive. Power comes from standard 2.4L DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Output and other performance figures will be released closer to launch date. Also in the works is a V6 and a hybrid variant.

Suzuki says that that the 2010 Kizashi sedan features “a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience.” Engineers tested and tuned the Kizashi sedan prototypes on Germany’s Autobahn, Switzerland’s Alpine twisties, cobblestone roads of rural England and the legendary Nürburgring.

Pricing for the 2010 Kizashi sedan will be announced closer to launch date but expect it to come in around the high-teens to $20k.

Make the jump for the high-res image gallery and the press release for more details.

2010 Suzuki Kizashi:

Press Release:

SUZUKI REVEALS NEW 2010 KIZASHI SEDAN

- Kizashi concept series culminates with world introduction of all-new Suzuki sport sedan.
- Chic Kizashi production model to deliver Japanese quality and European flair.
- North American Car of the Year contender to serve as halo vehicle for maturing Suzuki lineup.
- Kizashi’s exhilarating performance and driving experience reflect Suzuki’s exuberant brand spirit, backed by the confidence of America’s #1 Warranty.

BREA, Calif. (July 30, 2009) – American Suzuki Motor Corp. (ASMC) takes a bold step forward today. Known primarily as a maker of small vehicles and high-performance motorcycles, today marks the global debut of the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi (pronounced “Kee-Zah-Shee”), the company’s first entry into the all-wheel-drive sport sedan segment. Benchmarked against some of the leading cars in the world, the all-new 2010 Kizashi becomes an instant car-of-the-year contender in its own right. With the launch of the Kizashi, Suzuki delivers a unique blend of dynamic performance attributes with premium design aesthetics and craftsmanship yet to be experienced in this category. Scheduled to arrive in North American showrooms this winter, the Kizashi will serve as the company’s flagship vehicle, further expanding and strengthening its current product line of high-quality small cars, trucks and SUVs.

“In developing and naming our newest automotive introduction, the Japanese word ‘Kizashi,’ which tells that something great is coming, seemed appropriate for the vehicle,” said Kevin Saito, president, American Suzuki. “Now that the production model Kizashi has arrived, we expect the name and the product itself to clearly demonstrate the bold statement this company knew it would be making with the debut of this vehicle – while also simultaneously suggesting what will emerge in the Suzuki lineup as we look ahead to the future.”

The Kizashi sport sedan, which originates from the Concept Kizashi series introduced over the last two years, follows a similar design theme and appreciation for performance previously illustrated by the three eye-catching and immaculately designed concept vehicles. The production Kizashi redefines the traditional performance sedan and moves the Suzuki brand upscale. Furthermore, its active and energetic identity, a core component of the Suzuki brand DNA, is tempered by the vehicle’s overall mission to provide a strong, refined urban performance.

Powertrain

Built at Suzuki’s brand-new manufacturing facility in Sagara, Japan, the 2010 Kizashi is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine offering a more potent standard engine than many competitive best-sellers. The engine employs both an aluminum block and cylinder heads, providing a lightweight installation; aluminum pistons with low tensile force rings deliver improved power and efficiency. Dropped-forged connecting rods, rotating on a forged steel crankshaft, contribute to the inline four’s durability, and a balancer shaft delivers improved engine balance and reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

The responsive inline four is connected to a six-speed manual transmission, for heightened performance in the low gears, along with relaxed – and economical – cruising capability in the higher gears. Customers may opt for an available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that delivers both the driving experience and fuel efficiency today’s consumers demand, while not compromising the character preferred by driving enthusiasts. That character is enhanced with paddle shifters, optimizing driver control regardless of speed or driving environment. With either transmission choice, the Kizashi is engineered to return competitive fuel economy numbers for fuel-conscious consumers.

In addition to this excellent new powertrain, and to even further enhance the Kizashi’s strong efficiency story, Suzuki is developing an even more fuel efficient hybrid version that will be added to the lineup in the future.

Braking and Handling

In order to successfully enter a field already saturated with countless nondescript transportation appliances, Suzuki breaks away from traditional values normally associated with the mainstream, standing firm on Suzuki’s belief in delivering a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience. That driving experience was validated on Germany’s Autobahn, Switzerland’s Alpine twisties, cobblestone roads of rural England and the legendary Nürburgring.

An exceptionally rigid steel unibody – with reinforced front suspension and multi-link rear suspension constructed with embedded aluminum – allows for crisp, nimble handling with excellent stability, sophisticated ride and reduced chassis vibration. Engineered from conception to be all-wheel-drive capable, the Kizashi offers a newly developed advanced all-wheel-drive system with highly advanced controls that evokes and promotes a natural sense of heartfelt driving enthusiasm and safety. Kizashi’s sophisticated braking system offers standard four-wheel disc brakes and includes suppliers such as Akebono, a world-leader in NVH control and analysis and a leading brake supplier for automotive and high-speed rail applications.

Design

Kizashi’s thoughtfully crafted exterior design is best described as the seamless melding of European style and Japanese craftsmanship. Tailored for the driving enthusiast, Kizashi’s bold and aggressive stance is complemented by available 18-inch alloy wheels; contemporary styling – with its lean proportion and minimal front overhang – injects the sophistication appropriate to a performance-oriented sport sedan. As with the Concept Kizashi series, the front end of the production Kizashi expresses both strength and style, while the vehicle’s impeccably engineered body reflects Kizashi’s underlying strength and distinctive combination of capability and refinement.

At Kizashi’s rear, the architecture accentuates the ‘sport’ aspect of Suzuki’s sport sedan. The visual dynamic is enhanced with the addition of an integrated dual sport exhaust, communicating – both visually and aurally – the Kizashi’s performance-imbued spirit.

Interior

Suzuki has taken advantage of its expertise in the compact car segment to efficiently execute larger – yet still tidy – proportions that afford comfort and practicality without the wasted space. Along with cabin proportions that reward Kizashi drivers and passengers with comfort and roominess, Suzuki pursues a contemporary, upscale interior feel – such as standard sport seats – in line with the vehicle’s on-road performance characteristics. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate Kizashi’s sporty and elegant instrument panel, while consumers seeking a luxury sedan will be pleased with the vehicle’s available leather seating, featuring high-density foam and premium quality materials rivaling upscale competitors.

The available premium leather is supplemented by three-stage heated seats and a three-position memory program. In addition, both cloth and leather seats benefit from Suzuki’s attention to detail: French seams, hard cover rears and low fatigue foam.

For those wanting high-tech beyond the engine compartment, the Kizashi’s interior delivers by the megabyte. Beginning with standard keyless push start system, Kizashi also offers iPod®1 connectivity and optional streaming audio via Bluetooth®2. For your advanced listening pleasure, Rockford Fosgate®3 provides an optional listening experience boosted by 425 watts of power.
Traction and Safety

The all-new Kizashi includes a class-leading list of standard safety equipment, including class-exclusive standard eight airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP®)4, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, projector beam headlamps and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Also included as equipment on the Kizashi is Suzuki’s developed synergetic vehicle dynamic control. This system assists drivers control and a fun-to-drive experience with minimal intrusiveness.

Kizashi is offered with Suzuki’s next generation i-AWD system, a rare option in its class, as this safety and performance enhancing feature is more typically found among luxury sport sedan offerings. Engineered to provide outstanding traction in inclement weather, the sophisticated all-wheel-drive system also delivers enhanced cornering capabilities. Activated when the driver selects the “AWD” switch on the instrument panel, power to the rear wheels starts immediately upon acceleration. Torque split remains dependent on several factors, including wheel slippage and throttle input.

1 iPod is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the United States and other countries.

2 Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.

3 Rockford Fosgate is a registered trademark of Rockford Fosgate.

4 ESP is a registered trademark of Daimler AG.

- By: Omar Rana

Suzuki will be holding the official North American debut of the new Kizashi mid-size sedan tomorrow; however, a certain few who have already seen the new Suzuki sedan couldn’t wait to post pictures until the embargo was lifted tomorrow.

The Kizashi name isn’t official yet, but we’ll get more details on that tomorrow. The sedan will make its auto show debut later this year at the 2009 LA Auto Show in December.

The Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept, which the sedan is based on, carries a 300-hp 3.6L V6 engine.

We’ll bring you more details tomorrow.

Suzuki Kizashi Sedan (Production model leak):

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Road Race (via MotiveMag and NextAutos)

Suzuki, which was recently told by analysts to give up on the American market, is working hard to expand its small fuel-efficient vehicle lineup. According to Japan’s Nikkei newspaper, Suzuki has set aside R&D money to study the possibility of hybrids and electric-vehicles with a focus on larger platforms.

The Kizashi Concept, which made its debut in 2007, was considered to be a possible candidate for a large hybrid vehicle. It has yet to be confirmed whether Suzuki will offer a hybrid variant of its upcoming Kizashi 3 sedan.

Nonetheless, the Japanese automaker is restructuring its R&D division with one unit working on electric-vehicles and the other unit working on hybrids with longtime partner General Motors. A third unit is also working on Suzuki-developed hybrids and conventional gasoline engines.

Just to throw this out there – IHS Global Insight says that Suzuki has just $1.1 billion to spend on R&D (just $1.1 billion? maybe they should apply for a government loan or something).

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Green Car Advisor (via AllCarsElectric)

After 25 years in the American auto market, Suzuki and Mitsubishi may have to withdraw due to plunging sales numbers, reports Bloomberg. Mitsubishi saw a 51 percent drop this year, and has been in an American sales slump since 2003, and Suzuki saw a 60 percent decline in sales over the first two quarters of this year, the worst drop this market has seen.

Japanese business analysts recommend that the two manufacturers withdraw completely from the American market and “stop the bleeding.” as one analyst put it.

The current economic conditions have already forced two of the American automakers into bankruptcy, caused a record loss for Toyota Motor Corp., and forced Isuzu motors out of the market entirely. American analysts who track the auto industry place Suzuki and Mitsubishi towards the very bottom of the market, and say that there is no viable quick fix that will effectuate their continued participation in the American market.

“We’re not talking about a one-time investment, but a consistent, sustained effort,” said Edwards, head of auto research for San Diego-based Strategic Vision Inc. “If they’re looking for a quick fix, continuing in the market will be tough.” said Alexander Edwards, head of Strategic Vision Inc. out of San Diego.

Mitsubishi Motors President Osamu Masuko has indicated that he plans on staying the course and expects the United States to regain its posture as the world’s largest auto-market.

“We will never give up the U.S. market,” Mitsubishi Motors President Osamu Masuko said on July 9 in Tokyo. “The U.S. will return to being the world’s biggest market.”

- By: Stephen Calogera

Source: Bloomberg

In a move similar to Hyundai’s Gas Lock program, Suzuki announced today that it will offer three months of free gasoline on its SX4 compact lineup. Suzuki, which as been hit by an industry-worst 78 percent decline in June sales, is not offering the incentive on the Grand Vitara SUV or any other models.

The promotion for the SX4 is equivalent to three months’ worth of gasoline placed on a debit car. Those that purchase the SX4 sedan will get $270 worth of free gas, while an SX4 crossover buyer gets $290 in free gas.

Suzuki is also offering a $2,000 cash-back on manual-transmission versions of the SX4, reports Automotive News.

Most of Suzuki’s sales problems can be blamed on the company’s thinning product line. The company suspended production of the XL-7 at the CAMI plant that it shares with General Motors during last fall. June XL-7 sales fell to 171 from 1,822.

Suzuki has not said when it will resume production at the CAMI plant but production of the Kizashi 3 sedan concept is scheduled to start in the fourth quarter.

- By: Stephen Calogera

It was reported last week the Volkswagen has been looking to purchase a stake in Suzuki Motor Corp in a move where the two automakers would collaborate on building an ultra-compact car. Suzuki CEO Osamu Suzuki is now denying reports that the German automaker was considering taking a 10 percent stake in his company.

“So far there’s been absolutely no contact (with Volkswagen),” Suzuki said. ”Lately, we’ve been the victim of a lot of rumors,” Japanese newspaper Chunichi Shimbun quoted him saying.

A source told Reuters last week that Volkswagen had been exploring the possibility of purchasing a 10 percent stake in Suzuki in order to produce a vehicle smaller than its upcoming Volkswagen Up!

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters

According to a source familiar with the matter, Volkswagen is considering a cooperation deal with Suzuki Motor to boost the German automaker’s expertise and reach in ultra compact cars. The source said Volkswagen is considering a new model that would fit into its upcoming “New Small Family,” which currently consists of the Volkswagen Up! concept.

“You have see it through an Asian perspective, particularly a Japanese one. There are vehicle sizes and classes that cannot be found here,” the source said. ”You only see them at the Tokyo motor show but it is undoubtedly an interesting segment, just have a quick look at the developing markets like India. It’s correct that there is a gap there that could be closed.”

Volkswagen is apparently looking to take a 10 percent stake in Suzuki that could launch a new model that would fit below the Up! compact family car.

A Suzuki spokesman said he did not hear anything about a potential tie-up, while Volkswagen declined to comment.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Reuters

It was reported earlier this year that the production version of the Suzuki Kizashi 3 sedan was going to debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show. Of course, we were pretty surprised when we didn’t see the production Kizashi 3 in New York.

According to Automotive News, Suzuki’s new sedan will debut later this fall. The production Kizashi 3 will be unveiled at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in November, the same time dealers will get the car.

Suzuki has yet to decide on a name for the front-wheel-drive car, which is based on a General Motors platform. The Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept carries a 300-hp 3.6L V6 engine; however, Suzuki has not decided whether to offer it in the production model.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept: 

- By: The Daily Auto Editor