What was I expecting when the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi arrived for my two-week-long test drive? Well, not much, I'm embarrassed to say. I lecture my kids all the time on the importance of staying open-minded and forming your own opinions, so I'm ashamed to admit that I was harboring a lackluster view about Suzuki as a brand in general. With the introduction of the Kizashi, my hope is that my mind won't be the only one changed about the brand.
The Kizashi is a surprise indeed and has the ability to fill a niche of affordable-without-feeling-cheap smaller midsize sedans. The base Kizashi starts at $18,999. My test car, the SE trim level, cost $21,780.
This might be the only car I've driven with a continuously variable automatic transmission that didn't drive me crazy. It had plenty of zippy power, and the CVT didn't rev up too much and cause obnoxious interior noise. As a matter of fact, an average driver getting into this car wouldn't even notice anything different about the transmission, and I consider that to be a success of great measure. Add to that optional all-wheel drive and you've got yourself a great car for small families.
“PASS AIR BAG OFF” Indicator
“PASS AIR BAG OFF” Indicator
The “PASS AIR BAG OFF” indicator is
located on the center of the instrument
panel. When the ignition switch is turned to
the “ON” position, this indicato ...
Accessory Socket (if equipped)
Accessory Socket (if equipped)
This socket can be used to provide 12 volt/
120 watt power for electrical accessories.
CAUTION:
Use of inappropriate electrical accessories
can cause damage to yo ...
2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara review
Snow buried it in the driveway, but the Suzuki Grand Vitara shook off the
thick white blanket and securely pulled onto the road.
Whether snowy or clear, Grand Vitara was in command.
For 2009, Gr ...