Suzuki Kizashi Sport AWD road test
by Stephen Walker
7th April, 2014
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One of the nicest mid-sized cars on the market is the Suzuki Kizashi
Sport AWD. This slightly upmarket version of the quite pleasing Kizashi front-wheel drive sedan has been with us for a
few years now. However, it has lost none of its gloss. It is still an exceptionally good car to live with as I recently
reconfirmed.
Test Car particulars
Our drive car is the all-wheel drive Suzuki Kizashi Sport AWD in which I covered 300 kilometres around Melbourne.
Prices*
Kizashi Sport AWD is currently priced from $39,990** (drive-away**).
Metallic paint is optional at $475*.
On the road with the Kizashi Sport AWD
Comfortable seating with an exceptionally nice display of driving manners when all-wheel drive is selected is an
immediate impression gained when you under way in the Sport AWD. It is nearly as good in front-wheel drive too. But, to
be frank, it is the AWD that really impresses me with the Kizashi. It feels so good that you wonder why some other cars
in the price range aren't so pleasing to drive.
Whilst the Kizashi is priced amid a wide variety of cars - some smaller, some larger, some more modern, some not so -
it isn't difficult to appreciate the Kizashi because it is holding its age quite well. What makes the Kizashi Sport stand
out is its all-wheel drive - as mentioned already! You cannot devalue its effect on the Kizashi.
Keyless entry/start, power operated front seats, satellite navigation, user friendly cruise control and leather trim
are appreciated features on the Sport AWD too.
Specifications
The 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol-fuelled engine drives either the front wheels or all-four. Power is 131kW at
6,500rpm and maximum torque is 230Nm at 4,000rpm.
The automatic transmission is really a Continuously Variable Transmission - same thing to many drivers because it is
operated without a clutch pedal.
Braking is by disc brakes at each wheel.
The suspension is by Macpherson struts at the front with a multi-link system at the rear.
Five 18" alloy wheels are standard.
Electronic power steering is standard. Turning circle is 11.0 metres (quite a good figure).
Fuel
The factory indicate the fuel consumption rating is 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle.
The fuel tank capacity is 63 litres.
Safety
Seven airbags, electronic stability programme (ESP), anti-lock brake system (ABS), electronic brake force
distribution (EBD), brake assist system (BAS) and more.
ANCAP rate the Kizashi Sport AWD with five stars for crash worthiness.
Importantly, a reversing camera is fitted to assist in reversing manoeuvres. Front and rear sensors are fitted,
too.
Connectivity/Infotainment
Standard: MP3 capable, CD player, AM/FM tuner, USB and Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel audio
controls.
Dimensions (Kizashi Sport AWD)
Length: 4,650 mm
Width: 1,820 mm
Height: 1,470 mm
Wheelbase: 2,700 mm
Kerb weight: 2,030 kg (approx).
Towing
A braked trailer weighing up 1,700 kg is OK for the Kizashi Sport AWD with suitable towing equipment. An unbraked
trailer needs to be limited to 720kg.
Maximum tow ball download is 75kg.
After Sales
There is a three-year/100,000km warranty which is transferable to any subsequent owners within the warranty period
(conditions apply).
There is an opportunity to extend the warranty to five years/140,000kms if a Suzuki dealer is chosen to service the
car within the required conditions.
Capped price servicing is available for up to five years (conditions apply).
Conclusion
If ever a nice car was kept a secret from the market it is the highly satisfying Suzuki Kizashi Sport AWD. When you
see one in front of you at the traffic lights you can be sure that a satisfied motorist is behind the wheel.
It isn't possible to hide my delight with the Kizashi Sport AWD, it is a top car!
NOTE:
* Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery
fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs).
** Drive-away pricing may vary from driver to driver, location to location and dealer to dealer.
Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the
specifications.
E&OE
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