Before the Sydney announcement, here is a quick history of the Kizashi model, it is an interesting one
Suzuki’s Concept Kizashi first appeared at the Frankfurt Motorshow in 2007
It was followed up later that year at the Tokyo Motor Show by the announcement of the Concept Kizashi 2
The Final Concept Kizashi 3 was announced at the New York
International Auto Show in March 2008
The final production version went on sale in Australia in May this year in two specification, XL and XLS
More images and the full press release after the jump
Both models feature the 2.4-litre DOHC in-line four cylinder engine, the
The standard transmission in Kizashi is a six-speed manual, also available is a new CVT optional automatic transmission, available on both XL and XLS versions of Kizashi.
The CVT controls are similar to a conventional automatic, with an accelerator and brake pedal and a P-R-N-D-style shift pattern, both XL and XLS models feature a traditional stick shift lever, allowing owners to shift ratios manually. The XLS version also feature rally inspired steering wheel mounted paddles.
Then in August, Suzuki announced the long awaited Sport AWD model, which is based on the top of the range XLS model.
The Kizashi Sport AWD sits 10mm lower than its front-wheel drive siblings, giving it a more aggressive look from all angles. It also features new 10 spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, a new sports mesh lower grille, new sports front bumper, sports side skirts, and chromed body side garnishes and fog lamp bezels.
Unfortunately it did not come with the rumored V6 engine but with the standard with 2.4L engine featured in the rest of the range and it is also only available with the CVT transmission.
Now to the latest version of the Kizashi announced at the Sydney Motorshow this week.
The Suzuki Kizashi Turbo is a concept at this stage but hopefully it may make it to production in the not to distance future. The Kizashi Turbo increase in power by 40% over the the naturaly asperated models
The 179kw engine increase’s torque from 230nm to 330 nm and will be coupled to a five speed manual gear box.
It will be interesting to see what the feedback from the public attending the Suzuki stand is, hopefully it will be enough to get Suzuki to put the Turbo into production
Suzuki has unveiled a high performance concept version of its stunning new Kizashi sedan.
Suzuki Australian General Manager Tony Devers today pulled back the covers on the high powered Concept Kizashi Turbo at the Australian International Motor Show.
Concept Kizashi Turbo boasts a force-fed power boost, lifting peak power from 131 to 179 kW, and torque from 230 Newton-metres to 330.
“Customers have been asking about a turbocharged version of this car since the original Concept Kizashi was unveiled at Frankfurt more than three years ago,” said Devers.
“The race-bred Kizashi chassis was always designed to handle more power and we are excited about the potential for a high performance version.
“We worked closely with our good friends from Road Race Motorsports in the US to produce a concept car with the potential to attack the medium car performance market.
Boasting a new high performance engine and stunning new lines, it gives me great pleasure to unveil the Concept Kizashi Turbo.
With its upgraded engine, Concept Kizashi Turbo is nearly 40 per cent more powerful than its naturally aspirated sibling.
Kizashi’s high handling levels are assisted in the Turbo Concept by a lower ride height, uprated brakes and a front strut brace for increased rigidity.
The performance potential is clear from the aggressive lines, accentuated by a new rear deck spoiler and 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 40-series low profile sports rubber.
Devers said Suzuki would use the 2010 Australian International Motor Show to gauge customer reaction to a high performance Kizashi.
“We will closely monitor customer feedback on the concept car and welcome input at facebook.com/suzukiaustralia”
Concept Kizashi Turbo specifications
Engine Turbocharged and intercooled JB24 2.4 litre in-line four
Boost 7psi
Power 179 kW at 4800 rpm
Torque 330 Nm at 4400 rpm
Transmission Six-speed manual
Wheels 19 inch Enkei RPF1 alloys
Tyres 245/40 x 19 inch Pirelli P-Zero