Suzuki Kizashi Apex Concept Presented in New York

Most of you know Suzuki as a motorcycle manufacturer, rather than car maker. The Japanese, however, are used to construct both types of vehicles, even if, as far as the car manufacturing business goes, Suzuki has some hard work to do before getting the same exposure as, say, rival Toyota.

When it launched the Kizashi sedan a while back, Suzuki hit the jackpot. Undoubtedly, the model arrived as the best looking Suzuki model in years, offering enough performance and a nice enough look to insure the success of the new nameplate.

This week, at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), Suzuki decided to blend the two sides of its business, presenting the Kizashi Apex concept, “the link between Suzuki's automotive division and its championship-winning motorcycles.”

Powered by 2.4l DOHC engine, the car is capable of extraordinary power: 275-300 hp at 5,800-6,200 rpm. The output is made possible with the use of a Garrett/Honeywell 2871 R ball bearing turbocharger and controlled via a six-speed manual transmission.

On the outside, the model clearly stands out thanks to the livery that has been designed to match the GSX-R Superbike's race design theme. Black 19-inch alloys shoed in Yokohama S.Drive 245/35-R19 tires and LED foglights complete the menacing look of the model.

"Our turbo-equipped concept leverages the already-exceptional Kizashi platform and infuses it with a substantial boost," said Steve Younan, director of automotive marketing and product planning, American Suzuki Motor Corporation. "The Kizashi Apex Concept will further elevate our flagship sedan in the U.S. among enthusiasts who crave added power and performance."