Suzuki Kizashi sedan launched in Japan

The Kizashi marks Suzuki’s first foray into the executive sedan market, and will become the flagship model in the Suzuki range. "Kizashi" means "a sign of great things to come" in Japanese, and Suzuki says that the Kizashi reflects the dynamic, forward-looking approach with which Suzuki takes up new automotive challenges.

The Kizashi is powered by a 2.4 litre engine that produces 180bhp and 230Nm, with a variable intake system and dual mufflers for exhaust efficiency. Four-wheel-drive is also available as an option, with power delivered through the intelligent i-AWD system.

The Kizashi also features a synergetic vehicle dynamics control system that works with the i-AWD system and electric power steering system to suppress body movements and keep the car stable. On the two-wheel-drive version, the synergetic vehicle dynamics control system combines with just the power-steering system

The Kizashi is tuned towards refinement, with much emphasis placed on keeping the car quiet. Sound-absorbing and -insulating measures throughout the body promote quietness while allowing the body to be optimally light, and high-capacity dual exhaust silencers suppress unpleasant low-frequency booming noises from the exhausts.