Suzuki kizashi modifying at concept car robo

Now in its second model year as Suzuki's most expensive vehicle, the Kizashi is a value-priced sedan trying to find a niche in the crowded mid-sized segment. Its name in Japanese means "something great is coming."

What's great about the Kizashi is that Suzuki is offering the vehicle in the near-luxury category with a top-of-the-line price ($25,000) that's still about $5,000 less than the average price of a new car in the United States.

Suzuki attracted a buzz when the car debuted a year as a cheap (but not cheaply built) alternative to an Audi 4. With a few exterior changes and amended sport packages, the second edition remains the same good value as the 2010 version.

The Kizashi may not be the great car Suzuki seeks, but it shouldn't be overlooked. In fact, it's arguably the best deal in its segment.

For the second straight year, I test drove the top-of-the-line SLS model for a week. It includes a surprisingly long list of standard features: leather seats, power passenger seat, heated front seats, auto dimming rear view mirror with Homelink® Universal garage door opener, heated outside mirrors, automatic rain sensing wipers, automatic headlamps and rear proximity sensors with audible warning and graphic display.

Just like the debut edition, passersby momentarily think it's an Audi until they see the insignia Suzuki "S." And then they try to pronounce the car's name. Even with the phonetic spelling (Kee-Zah-Shee) available, the name isn't easy to pronounce and it likely won't be easy to remember.

The 185-horsepower, six-speed manual is a blast to drive, particularly considering its short shift box and nimble maneuvering. Driving the Kizashi doesn't lose any of its appeal on the open road.

Some reviewers have given the Kizashi low marks for acceleration. I've driven slower sedans. But the new, lower ride and smooth shifting may give the feeling the car's accelerating faster than it is.

soource aticle: suzukiauto