FEATURES | 9 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
The radio and climate controls...use black-and-white LCDs that look as if they had come from competing ’80s-era clock radios.
Car and Driver
the 425-watt Rockford Fosgate stereo kicks and thumps with the best of 'em – no distortion to be had
Autoblog
The screen readout and navigation of music players connected to the USB port is not as clear or intuitive as we would like.
Consumer Guide
the real story here is how much car you get if you're willing to forgo stuff like power seats and backup sensors
Popular Mechanics
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi continues to put its best foot forward in terms of features for the money. The base price on a Kizashi S, including destination, is less than $20k, and even a loaded Kizashi SLS Sport still totals well under $30k.
Suzuki typically offers few if any options on its U.S. vehicles, instead including a strong list of standard features, and the Kizashi takes that to a new level with all Kizashi's including keyless entry and dual-zone climate control. The Kizashi remains offered in S, SE, GTS Sport, and SLS Sport models. The S includes a surprisingly high level of standard equipment like push-button start, sport seats, dual-zone climate control, and steering-wheel audio controls. Next up is the SE, which adds a power memory driver seat, cruise control, 17-inch alloys, and upgraded trim. A 425-watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, fog lamps, a moonroof, and 18-inch wheels are all part of the GTS, while the top-of-the-line SLS includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, rain-sensor wipers, rear parking sensors, heated mirrors, an auto-dimming mirror, and a garage-door opener.
Both the GTS Sport and SLS Sport step up to a lowered suspension that rides 10 mm lower (but not really any harsher) than the base setup; a bolder, lightweight wheel design; a trunk spoiler; body sill extensions; a more aggressive front fascia; and a bolder, 'aero' look. Sport models also get snug, leather-trimmed sport seats with contrast stitching (a different design with more side bolstering), plus a number of other extras.
A navigation system is available as a relatively low-cost option and includes a rear camera system, real-time traffic, and iPod controls.
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Conclusion
The Kizashi's price is always a little lower than you might think, given the long features list.