Posted on Thursday 6 March 2008
Suzuki has released an official teaser for its new Kizashi 3 concept sedan, which will be unveiled in a couple of weeks at the New York Auto Show. The Kizashi concept vehicles represent Suzuki’s first attempt at developing a model that could be sold in the middle class segment and the popularity of the original Kizashi and Kizashi 2 concepts displayed last year quickly prompted officials to green light production plans.
The first two concepts were powered by efficient four-cylinder turbodiesel and petrol V6 engines but the third variant is expected to sport an all-new V8 powerplant. The styling of the Kizashi 3 will be the closest of the three concepts to the final production model, which is shaping up to be a new midsized sports sedan.
Hyundai has proven that a budget carmaker can develop and market a V8 saloon and now it seems Suzuki is set to do the same. Unlike Hyundai’s RWD Genesis, the Suzuki is expected to feature an AWD powertrain and could also offer a hybrid option.
I really like this sketch. Its the design direction VW should be moving in - actually this looks a lot like a VW.
if suzuki can make this car, and offer it in the price range of the fusion and malibu, with a range of power plants, I4-V8, AWD, and hybrid options, then lets just say ford would HAVE to bring the next gen mondeo over here… or else u might as well just get out of the segment.
even if suzuki did produce this car, the final product (like all of it’s concept cars) would look nothing like this.
If Hector were to weigh in, I’m sure he would point out that Suzuki should stick to motorbikes. I’m more of the opinion that they need to make a nice little competitor to the Lotus (lightweight, high-revving engine) first. Although the development costs would be similar, I think it makes sense to play to your strengths. Besides, can you really see someone trading in their BMW (or even their Genesis) for a Suzuki?
Roy, I’d say the Suzuki sports car needs to stand closer to an MX-5 rather than an Elise (ie half the price).
Jack, that’s obvious. Because those prototypes are insanely narrow and low in the rear seats. And dubbers are too expensive and impractical (think about spare tyres).
What are you talking about jack? All of Suzuki’s latest concepts turned out extremely close to the production model. for example, the concept x, x2, and s look exactly like the current xl7, grand vitara, and swift.