2008 New York Auto Show: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept Preview

• Suzuki’s third Kizashi concept is a stunner, and foretells good sport sedan things from the automaker in 2010.
• There are never enough attractive, sporty sedans available for sale, especially with great warranties. Here’s hoping that the Kizashi 3 becomes one.

Suzuki’s latest concept for their upcoming sport sedan strongly delivers on the automaker’s promise to take the next step, at least when it comes to styling. Whether or not the automaker can deliver on the goods remains to be seen, but – wow – what a stunner. Due to be sold as a 2010 model, the concept that debuted at the New York Auto Show was the third and final installment of Suzuki’s Kizashi series, and almost looks drivable now: save for a few of the obvious concept traits seen above.

As of now, little is known about the sedan’s features, except that the vehicle will offer all-wheel-drive and a V-6 that punches out 300 or more horsepower. Reports also indicate that Suzuki plans to build a crossover and wagon (see Kizashi 1 and 2) from the model’s base, though neither of the first two concepts were as close as Kizashi 3 to actual production.

Powered by a 3.6-liter V-6 engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, the Kizashi 3’s for-sale version is tabbed to do about 300 horsepower. All that power goes to all four wheels courtesy of Suzuki's all-wheel-drive system. As for wheels, the Kizashi 3 debuted with 21-inchers, all four of which as pushed out to the corners of the car. The company is mum on the details, but it's likely you'll see a smaller or more efficient engine when the car debuts as a 2010 model.

Simply put, it's a stunner. And here's hoping that the "Kizashi Silver" paint job seen in New York is more than just a show paint job, and that they may actually make a for-sale color that looks like the one on stage. It's not just the paint that makes the style special, however. Note the graceful lines and strong front end design. The headlights look fully integrated, without too much trickery or design gimmick. The grille is aggressive and strong, yet fits with the sloping style of the car. Above the beltline, designers fashioned a graceful, roofline with what looks to be a long front windshield.

Suzuki might have a winner on its hands, and it'll need it, because the Kizashi 3 will have more rivals than a dog has fleas. From A to Z and around the globe, there's a sporty sedan that will line up against Suzuki’s model. New or recently redesigned competitors include the Honda Accord, Hyundai Genesis, Nissan Altima, Pontiac G8 and more.

By Brian Chee Photo credit: Oliver Bentley