Suzuki Kizashi Loses Ground in China

Suzuki Kizashi, often considered a key product for the Japanese manufacturer in several markets, isn't experiencing prosperous times in China despite the fact that the parent company has already started a discount program. Kizashi sales barely achieved 15,000 vehicles, Jinghua Times reports, despite the fact that the price can be reduced from $28,877 to $22,791 thanks to incentives offered by Suzuki.

The Kizashi sedan however performs much better in the rest of the markets it is available in, including the United States where it arrived in late 2009. Pricing for the American Kizashi starts below $20,000, while a more equipped version with features from as dual climate control to push-button start, a USB port, 17-inch alloy wheels and eight airbags costs between $22,000 and $24,000.

In the US, the vehicle is offered with a 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine developed by Suzuki in the company's new manufacturing facility in Sagara, Japan. The engine develops a maximum output of 185 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm when equipped with a manual transmission. If the powertrain is mated to a CVT, the maximum output drops to 180 horsepower at 6,000 rpm.

Of course, trim levels are different as compared to the Chinese configuration, with the base version to be offered with standard push button start, sport front seats, steering wheel audio controls, automatic dual-zone climate control with passenger rear vents, stability control, 8 airbags and integrated-chromed dual exhaust tips.