Suzuki unveils new Kizashi mid-sized sedan

The Kizashi, which is Japanese for 'something great is coming', signals the Japanese carmaker's first foray into the executive sedan sector. Suzuki have been previously known for its small cars like the Swift, and its off-roaders.

Styling highlights include a bold grille design, curvy headlamps and a sporty looking rear end, with a pseudo-spoiler design incorporated into the bootlid. 18 inch alloys and dual exhausts finish off the look.

The Kizashi will be powered by a 2.4 litre DOHC inline four cylinder engine with Variable Valve Timing. Suzuki has not released any performance figures, but revealed that a hybrid version, as well as a V6 engine, can be expected in the near future.

In keeping with its off-roader roots, AWD versions of the Kizashi will be made available, along with the standard FWD versions. The front-drive models will have a choice of either six-speed manual transmissions or an optional CVT unit, while the AWD cars will have the CVT transmission only.

Safety has also not been neglected, with Suzuki offering what it calls the Dynamic Vehicle Stability Control (DVSC). It claims that the DVSC s an improvement on the standard ESP found in most cars due to its greater degree of driver control. The DVSC system is also available on the FWD version of the Kizashi.

Other safety features include no less than eight airbags, electronic stability control, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, projector beam headlights, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Inside, the Kizashi is packed with features, with standard keyless push-button start, iPod connectivity and Bluetooth audio streaming all available. Optional items include premium leather upholstery and three-stage heated memory seats.

The Kizashi is expected to go on sale in Japan and the US by the end of the year, with exports set to begin by 2010.