A petrol-electric concept version of the Suzuki Kizashi sedan reveals brisk performance can run hand in glove with environmentally friendly running costs.
Unveiled at the recent New York motor show, the EcoCharge hybrid was one of two special Kizashi models shown for the first time.
The other car was the Apex concept, a high performance model that hints at Suzuki’s remarkable success in international motorcycle racing.
Both factory concepts are based on the extravert four-door production Kizashi which made its New Zealand debut last year into the medium car class.
The eye-catching EcoCharge is powered by a bespoke version of the 1,998 cm3 double overhead camshaft four-cylinder engine.
It uses an adaption of the variable valve J20B power unit seen in the Suzuki SX4 as its basis, working in tandem with an advanced electric propulsion system. This consists of a liquid-cooled 15-kW motor/generator tied to a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery.
The power unit produces 106 kW at 6,500 rpm, compared with 112 kW for a production SX4 and 131 kW for the production 2.4-litre Kizashi model. Maximum torque of 173 Nm is realised at 4,500 revs.
Fuel economy is optimised, with an electric power boost during acceleration. A 25 per cent reduction in fuel consumption allows the EcoCharge to average 5.9 litres/100 km (47.9 miles per gallon)
Yet Suzuki engineers say there is no loss in driveability, and the car retains the same dynamic handling and characteristics that have made the production Kizashi a standout performer in its class.
To help maximise efficiency, the EcoCharge concept also utilizes numerous fuel-conserving technologies, including regenerative braking, automatic engine shut-off when the car comes to a stop, fuel cut-off during deceleration and low-rolling resistance tyres.
A six-speed automatic electric drive system provides smooth operation and a seamless flow of power
Steve Younan, director of automotive marketing and product planning for American Suzuki Motor Corporation, said Suzuki was continuing to study the virtues of the petrol-electric technology found in the Kizashi EcoCharge concept.
“Our basic concept was to attain substantial gains in fuel economy without the traditional sacrifices in driveability required with today’s mid-size hybrid sedans,” he said.
The EcoCharge Kizashi shown in New York is finished in a unique luminescent white satin paint finish with a subtle blue undercoat, a special headlight treatment and LED foglights, while the lightweight aluminium alloy wheels have a futuristic look.
Advanced seat materials in the car require 84 per cent less energy to produce, and create 80 per cent fewer emissions than virgin material production.
“The EcoCharge underpins Suzuki’s efforts in socially-conscious motoring, and is an innovative and economical answer at a time of rising fuel costs,” said Tom Peck, General Manager of Marketing for Suzuki New Zealand Ltd.
Meanwhile, the stunning blue and white Apex concept Kizashi adds an extra element of performance, with a power increase of more than 60 per cent over the production version of Suzuki’s largest passenger car model.
Adaption of a Garrett turbocharger with a maximum pressure boost of 8.5 p.s.i. and other modifications, including a dual-flow exhaust, boost output of the 2,393 cm3, J24B engine from 131 kW at 6,500 rpm to a range from 210 kW to 220 kW at 5,800-6,200 rpm.
The air to liquid intercooler provides a more effective charge of air cooling in a smaller package. A small heat exchanger and circulation pump are designed for minimal intrusion to vehicle cooling.
The intercooler’s primary advantage comes from the reduction in the overall length of ducting which results in less turbo lag for a faster throttle response.
Like the flagship Kizashi Sport sold in New Zealand, the Apex concept has an advanced intelligent four wheel drive system. But, unlike the Sport with its continuously variable automatic transmission, the concept high performer is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Drawing inspiration from the brand’s championship-winning GSX-R superbikes, the Apex appears in the same racing livery as the Suzuki two-wheelers. It has 19-inch diameter lightweight burnt asphalt finish alloy wheels shod with Yokohama 245/35 tyres incorporating special compounds for maximum traction in both wet and drive conditions.
The black leather trim boasts laser blue Alcantara accents in the sports seats and steering wheel.
