2010 Suzuki Kizashi vs. Its Competition
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With dimensions that are closer to mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry in looking at its cabin but closer to compacts like the Corolla when considering overall dimensions, the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi lands in an underrepresented part of the U.S.
sedan market.
But it doesn't take on those bread-and-butter family sedans like Accord, Camry, and Malibu.
Instead—even though Suzuki succeeds in making the Kizashi a lower-budget alternative to the likes of the Audi A4 or Acura TL (both about the same size as the Suzuki)—its main rivals are the sportier mid-size sedan models, along with a few of the most attractive, spacious compacts.
The Kizashi has a little more style and personality than the Ford Fusion, although the Fusion handles surprisingly well; it also feels more nimble than the Mazda6 and feels considerably firmer and sportier than the new Subaru Legacy, which has standard all-wheel drive.
Both the Legacy and Altima have cheaper-feeling interior appointments and less-supportive seats but share the choice of manual transmission or CVT.
Finally, for those considering the base Kizashi S model, the stylish new Kia Forte is one of many compacts that starts at a considerably lower price—with an interior that might feel almost as spacious—but it doesn't have the refinement and sophisticated driving feel offered by the Kizashi.
 2010 Suzuki KizashiBrowse Used Listings |  2010 Kia ForteBrowse Used Listings |  2009 Ford FusionBrowse Used Listings |  2009 Mazda MAZDA6Browse Used Listings |  2009 Subaru LegacyBrowse Used Listings |  2008 Nissan AltimaBrowse Used Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | |||||
| Meta Rating | |||||
If you can get past the Suzuki badge itself, you'll be pleasantly surprised. The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is sophisticated, well designed, and a lot more fun to drive than most other four-cylinder mid-size sedans. | The 2010 Kia Forte is a strong contender in every way—a surprisingly good-looking, enjoyable-to-drive car that will hold the budget down. | The 2009 Ford Fusion is a great choice for those who place their priorities on style and handling, but if interior space matters to you, look elsewhere. | The 2009 Mazda6 could easily steal sales from the traditional class leaders if non-gearheads discover it. | The 2009 Subaru Legacy appeals to rugged, sporty, and practical types, but not those who expect top refinement. | The 2008 Nissan Altima is a little sportier, though not less sensible. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $18,999 | $13,695 | $19,035 | $18,550 | $20,795 | $18,620 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 20 MPG City / 31 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas Flat 4-Cyl | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Compact | Midsize | Mid-Size Sedan | Midsize | Compact | Midsize |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4dr Sedan Man FWD S | 4dr Sedan Man LX | 4dr Sedan I4 S FWD | 4dr Sedan Man i SV | 4dr H4 Man | 4dr Sedan I4 Man 2.5 |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| 4 Door Sedan | 4dr Sdn | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | |||||
| Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD |
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