2012 Suzuki Kizashi Sport GTS AWD Review By Dan Poler

By Dan Poler
Colorado Bureau
The Auto Channel

One translation of the Japanese word Kizashi means “something great is coming” – an interesting choice of name for Suzuki’s compact/midsize “’tweener” vehicle first released for the 2010 model year. Perhaps Suzuki intended this to put its competitors on notice, or to tell consumers of things to come, but either way the name is fitting – Suzuki does have something great here.

The 2012 model we tested came in the Sport GTS AWD configuration. In addition to standard equipment (more on that in a moment), the Sport GTS AWD adds selectable 2WD/AWD, paddle shifters on the steering wheel, 18-inch wheels, a sportier exterior appearance, fog lights, sunroof, a sport suspension with a lowered ride height, and a Rockford Fosgate Stereo capable of Bluetooth calling and streaming.

All of these features come in addition to a staggering list of standard equipment available on any Kizashi – including luxury features such as keyless ignition and entry, power everything, dual-zone automatic climate control, a height-adjustable driver seat and a tilting / telescoping steering wheel. For a car with a base price a buck under nineteen thousand, this list is impressive.

All of these features are moved around by a 2.4L four-cylinder engine producing 180 HP and 170 Lb-Ft of torque mated to a continuously-variable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. The CVT setup is one of the most pleasant we’ve driven – the Kizashi is perhaps just a touch sluggish off the line, but lots of power is available between 40 and 70 MPH, making for a great highway driving experience. We averaged a respectable 28 MPG in mixed city and highway driving.

The sport-tuned suspension definitely transmits quite a bit of the road surface to the occupants, but not unpleasantly so. The Dunlop sport tires are aggressive and hold the road in the corners very well with only a minimum of body roll. The all-wheel drive setup works well and does a great job holding the road and putting power down to the wheels.

Inside, the Kizashi’s passenger cabin is a pleasant place to spend time; the forward portion of the cabin feels cavernous, as if transplanted from a much larger car. Controls are well-lit and logically laid out with tactile markers to find the right button without having to look. The Rockford Fosgate sound system works well and is easy to use. There are tasteful accents of chrome throughout the cabin. Seats are among the most comfortable we’ve ever found for a car in this class. The back seat is a little cramped, but two adults will be comfortable for short trips around town.

Exterior styling of the Kizashi is clearly German-influenced, with a hint of VW in the front end and evidence of Mercedes in the back. The Sport GTS trim adds aggressive styling and a lowered right height making for an attractive package. Our test model sported premium Platinum Silver Metallic paint, which looks beautiful and has a deep metallic sparkle to it, rivaling cars far more expensive.

The Kizashi is a safe choice as well, sporting four-wheel disc brakes and front and rear side and head airbags. Suzuki offers a great warranty, with 3/36 for comprehensive coverage and roadside assistance, and 7/100 powertrain coverage.

Suzuki has indeed lived up to their chosen name, bringing something great to the public. The Kizashi is wonderfully comfortable for commuting and highway cruising, and more than happy to be opened up and pushed through the corners for a bit of fun. At $26,404 in the configuration we tested, it’s also a great value, and is absolutely worth a look and a test drive. The challenge may be in finding one, as Suzuki’s dealer network is nowhere nearly as extensive as its rivals, but the Kizashi is worth a trip out of the way.

Specifications

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Sport GTS AWD

Base Price: $18,999
Price as Tested: $26,404
Engine Type: DOHC 16-Valve I-4
Engine Size: 2.4L
Horsepower: 180
Torque (lb-ft): 170
Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters
Wheelbase / Length (in): 106.3 / 183.1
Curb Weight: 3,241 Lbs
Pounds per HP: 18
Fuel Capacity (gal): 16.6
Fuel Requirement: Regular unleaded
Tires: Dunlop SP Sport; P235/45R18
Brakes, front/rear: Ventilated Disc / Solid Disc
Suspension, front/rear: MacPherson Strut / Multilink
Ground clearance (in): 5.3
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
EPA Fuel Economy : MPG city / highway / observed: 22 / 29 / 28
Base Trim Price: $25,749

Options and Charges
Option: Premium Floor & Cargo Mats - $210
Option: Premium Metallic Paint - $130
Option: Bluetooth Hands Free Calling w/ Wireless Audio Streaming - $250
Option: Trunk Sub-Floor Organizer w/First-Aid Kit - $65
Destination and Handling: $0
Price as tested: $26,404