2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS: The Automaker's First Car with Swag-Appeal

What’s New:
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The well-equipped Kizashi first hit the streets during the 2010 model year. New for 2011 is the addition of the Sport model, which is exclusive to the GTS and SLS trim levels. The Kizashi Sport is tricked-out with a body kit, an integrated trunk spoiler, 18-inch wheels and a 10mm lower ride height, making this the sportiest sedan to ever join the automaker’s line up.

A rear-view camera is also new this model year and it’s available with Kizashis equipped with the optional navigation system.

Must-Have Goodies:

In addition to the exterior tweaks noted in the “What’s New Section,” Suzuki’s cozy Sport was equipped with the following standard features: leather seats, a push-button starter, a power sunroof, heated exterior mirrors, an automatic day/night rearview mirror, dual heated programmable 10-way power adjustable front seats, rear parking sensors, automatic rain sensing wipers and automatic headlamps.

Besides the features mentioned, the Kizashi Sport’s trim also offers a sport-tuned suspension, which added to the overall driving experience of our six-speed manual transmission. (An optional automatic transmission is available in the Kizashi with steering wheel shift paddles.)

What Rocked:

The fit-and-finish of the Kizashi we reviewed rivals any of its competitors. Not only did the doors seal and close like many well-made premium-class imports, but the well-executed layout of the instrument panel emphasized the automaker’s attention to detail. Foremost, the standard heated leather form-fitted front seats easily conformed to our back and legs.

Another plus for this Suzuki is that the well-equipped Sport we reviewed is also one of the few vehicles in the midsize segment to offer an all-wheel drive configuration, making it easier to navigate extreme winter driving conditions.

What We Disliked:

Just like the Kizashi we reviewed in 2010, this 2011 Suzuki did not offer automatic rolling door locks, which is standard on most vehicles today. When the vehicle is placed in drive or park, the door locks should automatically lock and unlock. We’re just not use to manually locking and unlocking the doors, using the power door lock switch. That’s just so 1990s.

Furthermore, the rear-seat room isn’t adequate for adults with long leg. And the Kizashi lacks standard daytime running lights.

Any Juice:

The zippy Kizashi Sport produced 185 horses with its 2.4-liter DOHC, 16-valve engine. We can only imagine the vehicle if it had a turbo.

The Verdict:

While the Kizashi is classified as a midsize vehicle, it’s much smaller than may of its competitors. The sporty Kizashi we reviewed actually straddles the line between the compact and midsize segments, as it relates to size.

Overall this is the first Suzuki we’ve been in which we can honestly say offers swag appeal. Not only is the vehicle fun-to-drive, especially when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, but its also outfitted with a number of luxury amenities not found on many premium priced vehicles.

For a price point of $25,304, before negotiations or manufacturer rebates, we found our Suzuki Kizashi Sport to be an excellent value, although it lacked a rear view camera. Just like with Kia and Hyundai, the Kizashi offers a lot of bang for the buck. Moreover, the Kizashi offers a fully transferable 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty unlike some of its competitors. If we were in the market for a sporty, well-equipped new midsize vehicle, this vehicle would be at the top of our list. (We must note the Kizashi is available in a number of trim packages thus the base line price is approximately $19,000.)

Competition: Buick Regal, Chevy Malibu, Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry