An advanced new four-wheel-drive version of the world class Suzuki Kizashi medium size saloon has arrived in New Zealand.
The Kizashi Sport AWD adds a fresh dimension to Suzuki’s range of global cars, with a comprehensive specification that enhances the brand’s image.
This latest addition to the Suzuki lineup follows the launching of the all-new two-wheel-drive Kizashi sedan six months ago.
Building on a solid four-wheel-drive history spanning more than four decades, the Kizashi Sport reaffirms the all-wheel-drive expertise of one of Japan’s most dynamic motor manufacturers.
Suzuki was a pioneer in reliable and affordable all wheel drive vehicles like the Samurai, Jimny and Grand Vitara and has advanced its engineering in the development of the Kizashi AWD.
A new four-wheel-drive system has been developed from scratch and incorporated into the bespoke Kizashi Sport which becomes the flagship model for the brand.
The highly specified model is easily distinguished by new ten-spoke 18-inch diameter aluminum alloy wheels, a sports mesh grille, new sports front bumper, and the addition of sports side skirts, a rear sports spoiler, chromed bodyside garnishes and fog lamp bezels.
While the McPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension is carried through from the front-drive versions, the Kizashi Sport sits 10 mm lower. The rear suspension, comprising an upper arm, lower arm and control rod and trailing arm, has won praise for its ability from independent critics.
Central to the Sport’s character is a four-wheel-drive system developed from scratch, and incorporating Suzuki’s patented AWD system, known as i-AWD.
Kizashi uses an active system which anticipates a potential loss of traction and provides the appropriate tools to correct it.
“The all-wheel-drive arrangement has a ‘sixth sense’ which enhances the car’s driving dynamics and inspires greater driver confidence,” said Tom Peck, General Manager of Marketing for Suzuki New Zealand.
Depending on road conditions, the vehicle’s dynamic conditions and drive input, the AWD system adjusts the proportion of engine torque sent to the rear wheels.
For example, when taking off from rest, the system detect the extra throttle input and automatically sends drive to the rear wheels, thus ensuring notably smooth acceleration.
A maximum 50:50 front to rear torque split is available, giving optimum four-wheel-drive performance with highly efficient fuel economy and low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.
Synergetic Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC) was developed for the Kizashi Sport. This continually monitors variables, such as vehicle speed, steering wheel angle and yaw rate.
If any wheel slippage is detected, SVDC affects control over the i-AWD system before intervention by the Electronic Stability System (ESP).
In an oversteering situation when an excessive amount of steering may be required, SVDC provides an extra level of driver control for improved safety.
It enables additional assistance to the driver input through the electric power steering system to help get the car back into a neutral driving position.
SVDC determines the optimum use of engine torque, a boon for enthusiastic drivers. In front wheel drive mode the Kizashi was always designed to be a keen driver’s car and Suzuki engineers have further improved the feel of the vehicle in the Sport AWD.
The intelligent AWD controller constantly monitors driver input and vehicle dynamics to deliver the most efficient division of power. An electronically controlled wet type multi-plate clutch coupling modulates the degree of magnetic clutch action to provide optimum traction.
The coupling is regulated with an electrical current alternating between two and four-wheel-drive modes, based on data supplied by the array of sensors, including wheel, steering wheel, yaw and lateral “G”.
In a first for Suzuki, the transfer case incorporates a force fed internal lubrication system to improve durability. In the unlikely event of a problem, a default mode reverts the car to front-wheel-drive.
The 2.4-litre J24B double overhead camshaft, four cylinder engine used in other Kizashi models powers the Sport. Originally fitted to the current Grand Vitara, the motor was upgraded for Kizashi with a maximised intake valve lift and improved shaping of the exhaust ports.
This variable valve technology engine produces 131 kW of power at 6,500 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Combined with the standard fit continuously variable automatic transmission, the power unit averages 8.4 litres/100 km in the Australian ADR fuel economy cycle and emits 198 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
The torque converter axial dimension reduces fuel consumption by around 20 per cent compared to a conventional automatic transmission torque converter.
Steering wheel paddle controls allow the driver to make manual shifts if desired, and by pressing a dashboard mounted switch the four-wheel-drive system can also be engaged manually.
The lock-up clutch is initiated at around 10 km/h to reduce both power loss and fuel consumption.
Safety is paramount, with standard items on the Kizashi Sport including six airbags, ESP and traction control, ABS braking with electronic brake force distribution and dusk-sensing HID headlamps.
A safety zone between the bonnet and engine allows the bonnet to deform and absorb impact if a pedestrian comes into contact with the car. This works in combination with the low front bumper design, deformable garnishes and windscreen wipers to maximise pedestrian safety in the event of an accident.
The superbly equipped Sport comes with rain sensing wipers, an automatic dimming rear view mirror and keyless entry and start system.
Dual zone climate control air conditioning, a 425 watt Rockford Fosgate sound system, electric sunroof, heated electric front seats and leather upholstery are also standard.
“The Kizashi Sport AWD majors in performance, dynamics and value for money while building on the already outstanding abilities of the two-wheel-drive version,” said Tom Peck.
The Japanese built sedan is a world class sports model and a bench-mark in its class that has confirmed Suzuki’s arrival as a major player in the global market.
The recommended on-road price for the new model is $48500
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admin@suzuki.co.nz
