V6 Coming for the Suzuki Kizashi

Suzuki first revealed the Kizashi mid-size sedan at the end of July this year. Spyshots came out quite a bit earlier than that, and some speculation swirled that the car could possibly have been cancelled after a delay in introduction. Thankfully that proved not to be the case!

Suzuki recently held a media event for the Kizashi, and the reviews from the press are starting to trickle in. Unsurprisingly, they are quite good. From the first time the car was revealed, I was impressed with what it had to offer.

The Kizashi's styling doesn't break any new ground (it looks a like the Jetta in the front) but it is good looking, and most importantly seems to offer a good performance value. The specifications list on the standard car is excellent: 2.4L I-4 making around 180-200 horsepower (estimated), 6 speed manual and a pricetag below $20K.

Suzuki is positioning it as a bargain alternative to cars like the Audi A4 and Acura TSX. A V-6 model is in the works now, although the introduction date is unknown. The journalists attending the event got to drive the basically completed V6 mule,  which utilizes GM's 3.6 liter V-6. It definitely isn't just speculation, Suzuki is putting the finishing touches on it now. I can't wait to see a full-blown performance variant - Suzuki has got to make one.