Model Strengths:

Strong standard feature list; excellent handling; available all-wheel drive; good value

Model Overview

The Suzuki Kizashi comes in four trim levels: S, SE, GTS Sport and SLS Sport. All are fitted with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that features twin balance shafts and variable intake valve timing, producing 185 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. With the exception of the SE, all are available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). An available all-wheel-drive system features a clutch-pack-type center differential that can be run in 2-wheel-drive mode to help save fuel and is only offered with the CVT. Handling is sharp in the Kizashi, with independent suspension on all four corners. The Sport model's ride-height is reduced 10 mm from the other trims and tuned to give precision control while still maintaining a comfortable ride. The standard electronic stability control has been tuned to not be obtrusive during spirited driving. The manual-equipped S has been rated at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, with other trims achieving 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway with the CVT and front-wheel drive and 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway with the CVT and the available all-wheel-drive system. The Kizashi measures out slightly smaller than the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but larger than the Honda Civic. Trunk space measures in at a healthy 13.3 cubic feet and a folding 60/40 rear seat adds extra space for longer items or luggage for longer road trips in the Kizashi's upgraded appointments. The basic S model comes with 16-inch wheels standard, keyless entry, push-button start and dual-zone climate control. When fitted with the CVT, the S is fitted with cruise control and a leather-covered steering wheel. The SE adds 17-inch wheels, cruise control and leather-covered wheel and an 8-way power driver's seat with memory. The GTS Sport gets 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters with the CVT and a 10-speaker Rockford-Fosgate stereo with Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming. Finally, the top-of-the-line SLS Sport comes equipped with rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, leather upholstery with heated front seats, power passenger's seat and auto-dimming rearview mirror. All-wheel-drive adds heated side mirrors to all trim levels. Optional equipment includes Suzuki's i-VSP intelligent vehicle stability program on all-wheel-drive models only and an available rear-view camera and touch-screen GPS on GTS Sport and SLS Sport models. A new SE Leather Packages features a leather interior and adds $2,000 to the base SE price.

Model Changes

For 2012, Suzuki has introduced only minor changes to the Kizashi. In SE trim, a leather seat package is available, as is a Crimson Red Metallic exterior color.

Model Value

The mid-sized 2012 Suzuki Kizashi takes direct aim at the market-dominating Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Jetta and Nissan Altima. It's well-suited for those looking for performance in a family sedan and it's a good direction for Suzuki, featuring both European-inspired handling and design. Suzuki offers a 100,000-mile/7-year powertrain limited warranty. Base prices range from the S front-wheel drive at $18,999 to the truly impressive SLS Sport at only $28,948, with a vast array of luxury features included.