2012 Suzuki Kizashi in Sanford, ME - $11,999

American Suzuki Motor Corp. took a bold step forward with its fall introduction of the Kizashi sedan back in 2010. With the introduction of the all-new Kizashi (pronounced "Kee-Zah-Shee"), Suzuki delivers the sophistication and driving experience of premium sport sedans for the price of an ordinary midsize car. The all-new Suzuki sports sedan is an uncommon blend of the emotionally satisfying elements of fine European sedans and the virtues of modern Japanese car ownership.

Inspired by the Concept Kizashi series, the Suzuki sedan follows the type of design theme and appreciation for performance previously illustrated by the three eye-catching and immaculately designed concept vehicles. As the company's flagship vehicle, the Suzuki Kizashi is the company's first entry into the all-wheel-drive sport sedan segment.

Offered in S, SE, Sport GTS and Sport SLS and FWD or AWD configurations, base power for the Kizashi sedan is generated by a J24B 2.4L four-cylinder engine. Torque is communicated to the pavement through a six-speed manual transmission. A performance-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an available option.

Kizashi's next generation i-AWD system is a rare option in its class. Engineered from conception to be all-wheel-drive capable, the Suzuki sedan's newly developed all-wheel-drive system features highly advanced controls that evokes and promotes a natural sense of driving enthusiasm and safety. 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, throttle and steering input.

Offered in combination with Kizashi's i-AWD is an advanced electronic stability control system, adding an additional layer of driver control to preclude the need for electronic intrusion that inhibits the driving experience.

The Suzuki Kizashi rides on an exceptionally rigid steel unibody with reinforced front suspension and multi-link rear suspension components constructed with embedded aluminum. This allows for crisp, nimble handling with excellent stability, along with a sophisticated ride and reduced chassis vibration.

Inside the passenger cabin, Suzuki has taken advantage of its expertise in the compact car segment to efficiently execute larger interior 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 and premium quality materials rivaling upscale competitors. The Kizashi also offers extensive sound insulation to help suppress road, tire and wind noise.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 106.3; overall length: 183.1; width: 71.7; height: 58.3

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 185 hp at 6,500 rpm (manual), 180 hp at 6,000 (automatic) and 170 lbs-ft at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed manual, continuously variable automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: S – 21 city/31 hwy (manual/FWD), 23 city/31 hwy (automatic/FWD), 23 city/30 hwy. (automatic/AWD); SE – 23 city/30 hwy (automatic/ FWD), 22 city/29 hwy (automatic/AWD); Sport GTS – 20 city/29 hwy (manual/FWD), 23 city/30 hwy (automatic/FWD), 22 city/29 (automatic/AWD); Sport SLS – 23 city/30 hwy (automatic/FWD), 22 city/29 hwy (automatic/AWD).

Cargo capacity: 13.3 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, keyless entry/push button start, daytime running lights, traction control, electronic stability program, tire pressure monitors, side-impact door beams, and SmartPass security system. Sport GTS adds Bluetooth hands-free phone system and fog lights. Sport SLS adds automatic headlamps, HomeLink universal garage door opener, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Optional safety features include navigation system, rear vision camera, rear sonar parking assist and first aid kit.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 7-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi sedan starts from $18,999 for the S model upto $27,699 for the Sport SLS AWD sedan. Destination charges add $795.