Join host Jessi Lang as she reviews the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi SLS. Most of you are probably scratching your head going, “Suzuki, what? What is this Kizashi?” and luckily, Jessi is here to help. The Kizashi straddles the line between the compact and mid-sized segments and comes out swinging in a market that is dominated by the big boys like Honda and Toyota.
The ’11 Kizashi is powered by a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 185 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Our tester, paired to the manual transmission, stayed within the fuel economy ranges of 20 city mpg and 29 mpg highway. We could easily check our gas consumption thanks to the digital real-time data display in the gauge cluster. Despite no V6 offering (check out the video for more info), the Kizashi was able to make up for the lack of throaty growl with some of its other features in the trim levels.
The Kizashi is offered in four trim levels: base S, SE, GTS, and SLS (our tester), offering configurations that would fit most drivers needs. On top of the multiple variations, the Kizashi’s refinement and interior quality also helps make up for its shortcomings like tight legroom for the rear passengers.
With the multiple trim level options and features you expect from starter luxury vehicles, the Suzuki Kizashi’s price tag is shockingly low. Our top-tier SLS with leather upholstery, heated front seats, rain sensing wipers, and rear parking sensors started at $24,699 and topped out at $25,304.
I’ve test drove one. I’m a 6’2″ man and I really like having some pep in a car. I actually couldn’t believe how nice the car was. As the driver I felt comfortable in the drivers seat. Didn’t feel like I was cramped at all. The responsiveness of the car was surprising as well. I was able to get up to 70 mph within 8 seconds and could have probably done it faster but I was trying to behave. Overall I found it a great 4 door sedan especially if your looking at it from a family standpoint.