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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Suzuki Kizashi

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Suzuki Kizashi

Overview

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2012 Suzuki Kizashi Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.4

The 2012 Kizashi is arguably the most important car in Suzuki's meager and aging automotive lineup, which includes three of its own models and a Nissan-supplied pickup. The Kizashi sedan was introduced as a 2010 model and represents the newest vehicle for the Japanese automaker. Its name translates loosely to "something great is coming," and was meant to rejuvenate Suzuki's U.S. auto division. While the success of the car's long-term mission is still to be determined, in the here and now the Kizashi represents one of the few bright spots for the automaker. Available in front or all-wheel drive, the 5-passenger Kizashi has a budget-friendly price and offers solid handling, power and fuel economy in a package that looks good on the inside and great on the outside.

You'll Like This Car If...

Standing out from the crowd is a strong suit for the Kizashi, which, in addition to being relatively new, doesn't sell in the big numbers of most of its competitors. All-wheel drive is a smart option for those who travel in inclement weather and, because the Kizashi was targeted at premium, slightly larger cars, such as the Acura TSX, instead of compacts such as the Toyota Corolla, this underdog was built to do more for less.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Regardless of how good a car or its warranty may be, without a strong dealer network behind it the customer can end up losing out when it comes to service and repairs. Suzuki franchise dealers have been dwindling for years now, and its vehicle lineup in general continues to fly under the radar. Also, the Kizashi may require some explaining from its owner, not the least of which is how to pronounce its name: "kee-zah-shee."

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

6.4
Driving Dynamics

6.2
Comfort & Convenience

6.4
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.0
Value

6.4
Safety

N/A

How It Ranks

#25

out of 25

MPG

#2

out of 25

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.6 out of 10

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consumer ratings

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Low/wide front photo

What's New for 2012

The 2012 Kizashi carries over mostly unchanged from 2011, in which the Sport version, that included lighter alloy wheels and aerodynamic modifications, became available with the GTS and SLS upper trim levels. The base S continues as is, while leather seating is now an option for the mid-level SE version.

Driving the Kizashi

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions On the road, the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi feels solid and relatively comfortable. Despite what those big tailpipes might suggest, the Kizashi is not fast, but posts decent 0-60-mph times around...

the 8-second range, depending upon the transmission. Speaking of which, in the Kizashi we actually prefer the CVT automatic (with available paddle shifters) over the 6-speed manual. For models equipped with Suzuki's "intelligent all-wheel-drive" (i-AWD), a driver can easily switch between front-drive and an AWD mode that can split the torque 50/50 between the front and rear wheels for superior traction. In everyday driving, the Kizashi provides commendable driving dynamics while also offering pleasant around-town comfort.

Favorite Features

SIZE AND CARGO CAPACITY
At 183.1 inches in length, the 2012 Kizashi is larger than most compact sedans but smaller than those in the midsize category. This in-between sizing pays off with increased rear-seat legroom and generous cargo capacity in an easy-to-park package.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Rare among cars of this price and size, this option adds an extra measure of driving confidence by giving the Kizashi additional grip on any road surface. For those living where it snows, it's another reason to put the Kizashi on your consideration list.

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Details

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

While the interior is more conservative than the exterior might suggest, the Kizashi's cabin is inviting and laid out well. Front seats are supportive and comfortable, and rear legroom is roomy but still not greater than the space found in the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic sedans. Among the highlights is the tactile feel of the Suzuki's controls, such as the steering-wheel-mounted audio functions. The trunk is spacious for this class, and the rear seats split and fold for added capacity.

Exterior

One of the best aspects of the 2012 Kizashi is the aggressive look that sets it apart from popular compacts such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and even the relatively fresh Kia Forte. A forward stance, large honeycombed grille, short rear end and a pair of large trapezoidal tailpipes give the Kizashi a sporty appearance. Sport GTS and Sport SLS versions have a slightly lower ground clearance and an even sleeker profile. Move up from the 16-inch steel wheels on the base version to the 18-inch alloys, and you'll be rewarded with a truly premium look.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Except for the glaring omission of a radio as standard, even the basest of 2012 Suzuki Kizashi models comes comfortably equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, rear-seat vents, keyless entry with push-button start, tilt/telescoping steering wheel and eight air bags, all at a price under $20,000. Laudably, all Kizashi models use a timing chain instead of a belt to drive the camshafts in the engine, meaning less worry and maintenance down the road.

Optional Equipment

All-wheel drive can be added to any trim level of the Kizashi, meaning you can get an AWD automatic S model for just over $23,000. Other ways to spruce up the sedan include a 10-speaker, 425-watt Rockford Fosgate AM/FM/CD audio system with subwoofer, navigation unit, Bluetooth streaming audio, leather seating, redwood dash trim and rear sonar-based parking assist. Skiers will appreciate not only the rear-seat pass-through, but the optional ski bag to keep the interior clean and dry.

Under the Hood

All Kizashi models are powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that runs on regular unleaded gasoline. Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual or CVT automatic. Perhaps disappointing some enthusiasts, the 6-speed is available only with front drive. The engine provides enough thrust to confidently get the Kizashi up to speed and for passing purposes, but it's not exactly a tarmac burner.

2.4-liter in-line 4 cylinder
185 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm (manual transmission)
180 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm (with CVT automatic transmission)
170 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy:
Kizashi S: 21/31 (manual, FWD), 23/31 mpg (CVT, FWD), 23/30 mpg (CVT, AWD)
Kizashi SE: 23/30 mpg (CVT, FWD), 22/29 mpg (CVT, AWD)
Kizashi Sport GTS: 20/29 mpg (manual, FWD), 23/30 mpg (CVT, FWD), 22/29 mpg (CVT, AWD)
Kizashi Sport SLS: 23/30 mpg (CVT, FWD), 22/29 mpg (CVT, AWD)

Pricing Notes

A base 2012 Suzuki Kizashi can be had for under $20,000, including destination. But, in reality – and if you want a radio – expect to pay a few to several thousand more once you add an automatic transmission, power driver's seat and other features. A fully-loaded Sport SLS Kizashi with navigation can reach about $31,000. At these prices, the Kizashi costs more than the Subaru Impreza, which has all-wheel drive standard, and the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Chevrolet Cruze, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Mazda3. But the Kizashi is more powerful and slightly larger than those compacts. Be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying for the 2012 Kizashi. In terms of resale value, Suzuki vehicles tend to not do well, and the Kizashi is no exception.

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2012 Suzuki Kizashi Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.6

Out of 10

Based on 44 Ratings for the 2010 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.5/10

Quality

9.6/10
Reliability

9.6/10

Performance

9.6/10
Comfort

9.6/10

Styling

9.7/10

Best value and look for price

By Edd (VA) on Sunday, July 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Although Suzuki America filed for bankruptcy,I would buy this car again.Dealer in my city is signed on for warranty work.Choice between this,Sonata,Optima,Accord,.Camry,Altima,or any other comparable car was a no brainer."

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Pleasantly surprised. Better than you'd think.

By Dave (IL) on Thursday, May 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Value AWD luxury for cheap!"

Cons: "more ponies would be nice..."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I've owned many high end cars... This feels and drives like an entry AUDI, SAAB or BMW! For the price of this thing nothing even comes close. For the price I actually paid (way below sticker) it's a G-D steal! I have a fully loaded 13 SLS. It fully rivals the last SAAB I had, only the AWD makes this one better. If this holds up and isn't problematic this will be the best purchase I have ever made. What a fantastic underrated car. Get one, you won't be disappointed. Oh, right... you can't get one anymore. I'm glad I got one of the last ones. Couldn't care less about the implied poor resale since Suzuki pulled out of the US... I'm not selling it :) Drive it... I don't know what it really is, but I can't believe it is really a Suzuki! A friend from Europe says this is a direct competitor to the entry luxury brands and costs way more there..."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Best Vehicle I have ever owned!

By Susie2012 (OK) on Saturday, April 27, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 65,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Great, easy to drive, and stylish."

Cons: "Dealerships hard to find, and back leg room"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had my car for a year now, and I love it. It is easy to drive, comfortable for long drives, and I have not seen one person in town with a car like mine. The only thing that I would recommend is more leg room in the back and closer to a dealership for the Key Fob to be replaced. Another great feature is the sound that comes from the speakers, hands free blue tooth, and a memory setting for the driver's seat."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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Outstanding Value For the Money

By Semper Fi (SC) on Monday, April 08, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Value for the money and a mean looking stance"

Cons: "Minor glitches regarding placement of controls"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"The Kisashi Sport GTS handles like a German engineered car. The details mirror that of pricier cars, and the handling is quick and nimble. Fuel consumption is respectable within the neighborhood of 29 mpg's H/W, and 25 city. Output horsepower is rated at 185; not quite that most powerful of engines albeit, but you'd never know it, by the way it pulls away when you put the pedal to the metal. It comfortably seats five, and allows plenty of leg room provided you're not 6 foot or taller. Fully equipped it will run you approx. $25K. The NAV system leaves a lot to be desired, so I don't recommend it. Better off with your own suction style windshield mounted GPS. Yes, there are a few minor quirks, but nothing worth a wasteful complaint on. Overall the car aims to please, and will not disappoint."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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KIZASHI -- strange name, great vehicle

By brotherburce (CA) on Wednesday, April 03, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Stylish quality inside and out; comfort and mpg"

Cons: "defunct after March 31, 2013."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Suzuki failed to catch on in the US because it chose to have a scarcity mentality in two areas: advertizing and dealership network. I suppose the company thought it could give the money back on the sticker, but nobody knew who Suzuki was. My mechanic put me on to Suzuki in 2002, and I've owned nothing else since. The Kizashi is the King of the Hill. It has beautiful paint (I have the pearl white metallic--gorgeous) & unique styling outside and space & taste inside.I've actually had people follow me to a parking spot to find out what the car was...more than once. In the first 6 weeks of ownership, I've averaged 35.7 mpg --considerably better than the estimates. I have the 6-speed and drive conservatively, but still!! The sound system is terrific, lines of vision all around are good, The color scheme is interesting, and the features are ridiculous for a car of this price range. Even the interior lighting speaks of luxury. I'm sad to see Suzuki leave. Their autos are solid performers and elite in what they offer according to price. I'm not at all afraid to buy. The brand is very durable."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Great car...Great ride...Dark Horse Kizashi SLS

By MMC (CA) on Friday, March 15, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 49,888

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great interior-exterior, solid mechanically"

Cons: "Lacks leg room in the back"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Almost 50K miles of commuting and I have only seen one other car like mine on the road in Southern California. This car would have done great if Suzuki did some advertising. Most people have never heard of my car. Runs great, quality of interior is great...drives like a european car. I have previously owned Mercedes, Volkswagen and this car drives just as nice. Handles well, good feel on the road and is mechanically sound. Awesome job Suzuki!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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See all 44 reviews