Suzuki Brings Kizashi to UK for 2012

The Suzuki Kizashi has been liked among reviewers in the US, but that has not translated to a sales success. Suzuki says that it has sold just 23,000 Kizashis worldwide to date. Now it has announced that it will bring the Kizashi to the UK on a limited basis. Suzuki will import 500 Kizashis into the UK for 2012 to test the region's feelings on the model. 

The Kizashi is a midsize saloon car that holds five people. It is 4.65m long and 1.82m wide. It is powered by a 2.4l four-cylinder engine producing 178PS and 230Nm of torque with a CVT transmission. The Kizashi features switchable 2/4-wheel drive that allows drivers to decide when they need extra traction. The Kizashi achieves 34mpg and produces 191g/km of CO2. 

There will also be a sport model offered that adds a more aggressive front fascia with chrome accents, sill extension, 18in wheels and a sport steering wheel. It also comes with seven airbags, eight speaker CD/MP3 player, dual zone climate control, keyless entry and folding mirrors. 

The all-wheel drive system is operated by a switch on the dashboard. In two-wheel drive mode some power is still transmitted to the rear wheels, but the majority of the power goes to the front wheels. Four-wheel drive mode keeps power 50:50 between the front and rear. 

The Kizashi will go on sale in the UK in January for £21,995.