The global introduction of Concept Kizashi 3 coincides with Suzuki’s announcement that it will produce a sport sedan based on the concept design. 

The Concept Kizashi series was developed by Suzuki’s Advanced Design Group to reflect a dynamic athlete in motion, taking design cues from a strong, honed physique while displaying the performance, strength and style befitting a flagship vehicle. 

The design theme began with Concept Kizashi, which made its debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, and the Concept Kizashi 2, unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, which further revealed Suzuki’s new design language.    

“Kizashi means ‘prelude’ in Japanese, and that’s exactly what this design represents for Suzuki from both a business and a product standpoint,” said Mark Harano, president, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. 

“Concept Kizashi 3 illustrates our brand character and personifies our heritage, design strength and engineering prowess.  With customers in 192 countries and regions, Suzuki is truly a global brand, and the coming model carries on our mission to build the image of our automotive products in North America and eventually match our bikes’ reputation.”

The vehicle is powered by a 3.6-liter DOHC V6 engine with plated cylinders – a weight-and space-saving technology that evolved from the lessons learned by Suzuki’s motorcycle and WRC development teams. 

The closest-to-production variation of the Concept Kizashi series, Concept Kizashi 3 embodies Suzuki’s interpretation of the sport sedan segment in the North American market.  

As with Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2, the front end of the Concept Kizashi 3 expresses strength and style, with sharply fashioned headlights that emphasize the sensation of forward motion.  

Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 at the 2008 New York Auto Show

The body’s monochrome finish, Kizashi Silver, gives the vehicle a sense of composure and depth of character, with metallic paint sparkling to emphasize the dynamism of the body’s cross-section.  

With the production derivative of the Kizashi series to serve as the company’s flagship vehicle, Suzuki is going to extend its current product line of small cars, trucks and SUVs.

The future production model will be built at Suzuki’s brand-new Sagara plant in Japan, currently under construction, and provide an accessible alternative to the near-luxury segment.  While a firm timetable has not been announced, Suzuki will deliver the Kizashi-influenced sport sedan to North American dealers by 2010.

About the Concept Kizashi Series

The Concept Kizashi series was developed to create a substantial presence that moves the Suzuki brand upscale.  The overall design theme "suggests physical strength from intense daily training, with the strong will, commitment and presence of a champion."

Each of the Concept Kizashi vehicles strikes a balance between driver comfort and sportiness, with roomy cabins melded to lean, dynamic exteriors.  The hood and body style of all three Concept Kizashis hint at engine power and wind-splitting aerodynamics, while the long wheelbase, aggressive wheel/tire combinations and short overhangs communicate a performance-oriented, energetic image. 

A powerful-looking body profile is incorporated throughout the series to convey underlying strength, with large wheels and a wide tread expressing a capacity for superior performance.  

Beyond its exterior architecture, the Concept Kizashi series constitutes a four-wheeled continuation of Suzuki’s exciting, performance-oriented motorcycle heritage.

Concept Kizashi

Concept Kizashi made its world debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, demonstrating Suzuki’s progress toward the development of a vehicle that combines sportiness, style and substance. 

As the first concept in the Kizashi series, the vehicle’s dynamic exterior was specifically developed to push the envelope and establish the overall design theme of the series. 

Reflecting the spirit of a highway athlete, the exaggerated dimensions of Concept Kizashi and its strong fascia communicate a dignified character and the overall presence of a dynamic flagship vehicle. 

Concept Kizashi 2

Debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the Concept Kizashi 2 crossover sport wagon aims at drivers with dynamic lifestyles and can accommodate a wide range of activities.  Continuing the series’ athletic theme, Concept Kizashi 2 reflects the body of a triathlete, with the five-door vehicle’s all-road capability enhanced by its raised height and all-wheel-drive configuration.

In addition to the sport crossover’s versatility, its 3.6 liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission promise a rewarding and engaging driving experience for daily drivers and enthusiasts alike.

Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 - Technical Specifications

(Source: Suzuki)