Suzuki Kizashi (2010): first pics of the Japanese Mondeo

By Alex Michaelides

First Official Pictures

31 July 2009 11:48

Take a good look at the new Suzuki Kizashi – the Japanese manufacturer’s latest offering is pitched as an all-wheel drive sports saloon. The Kisashi is Suzuki’s first recent step away from small cars and SUVs and looks like it could pack a punch.

Yes, the styling is rather conservative and, if we’re honest, a tad disappointing compared with some of the Kizashi concepts that have appeared at various motor shows. The front has a hint of Suzuki SX4 about it, while the rear is quite bulbous and not as dramatic as the clean lines of the concept. However, a couple of cool touches, like the twin chrome exhausts and Lexus-esque wraparound rear tail-lights make it look classy and almost as sporty as Suzuki claim. The interior also looks solid and well designed.

Underneath the uninspiring bonnet lies a more inspiring 2.4-litre DOHC four-pot, which is mated to a six-speed manual driving all four wheels. There’s a multilink rear suspension and what Suzuki calls a ‘synergetic vehicle dynamic control‘ system. That’ll be traction control then.

Here’s the snag. At the moment, the Kizashi is for the US only, Suzuki UK saying that its priorities in Europe lie with its smaller cars. Ah well, looks like we’ll just have to stick with the Vauxhall Insignia V6 4x4. Shame.

By Alex Michaelides