Suzuki
America reveals two new Kizashi concepts
Suzuki America has revealed two innovative
and eye-catching new concepts ahead of the New York International
Auto Show – an environmentally-friendly Kizashi EcoCharge
Concept and a high-performance Kizashi Apex Concept.
Kizashi EcoCharge Concept
The Kizashi EcoCharge Concept points to the
company’s efforts in eco-conscious motoring with a 2.0-litre
four cylinder petrol engine working in tandem with an advanced
electric propulsion system combining a liquid-cooled 15kW motor
with a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery.
Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the hybrid sees
a 25 per cent improvement on real-world fuel economy over its
petrol Kizashi sibling.
“The basis for the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept was to attain
substantial gains in fuel economy without the traditional sacrifices
in drivability. While delivering a substantial fuel-economy
gain, the electric charge to the powertrain system has still
retained the dynamic handling advantages that make the Kizashi
a standout category performer,” said Steve Youman, director
of automotive marketing and product planning for American Suzuki
Motor Corporation.
In addition to the hybrid system, Suzuki has employed numerous
other fuel-conserving technologies including regenerative braking,
an engine stop-start system, fuel cut-off during deceleration
and low-rolling resistance tyres.
From the outside, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept distances itself
from its production sibling with specialised headlight treatment,
LED fog light illumination across the front fascia, new-look
lightweight alloy wheels and a unique luminescent white satin
paint finish with subtle blue undertones.
Kizashi
EcoCharge Specifications
Type: J20B DOHC I-4
Displacement (cu in / cc): 1,998
Valvetrain: Intake-VVT
Power 106 kW @ 6500 rpm
Torque 173 Nm @ 4500 rpm
Fuel economy target (Hwy): 25 percent improvement over production
Kizashi
Transmission type: 6-speed automatic
Electric Drive System type: Belt-driven, liquid-cooled induction
motor/generator unit and lithium-ion battery system; air-cooled
power electronics and battery pack
Maximum electric generating power: 15 kW @ 1,570-3,180 rpm
Maximum electric motor power(electric assist): 11.2kW @ 1000-2200
rpm
Lithium-ion battery: 115V, 0.5-kWh, 15 kW peak power
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Kizashi Apex
Concept
The Kizashi Apex Concept meanwhile is a salute
to Suzuki’s legendary motorcycling heritage boasting
a Garrett turbocharger, an air-to-liquid intercooler, electronic
boost control and a specific engine control unit calibration
for enhanced driving dynamics.
Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the force-fed system
boosts peak output into the 210-220 kW range with maximum
boost of 8.5 psi.
“Our turbo-equipped concept leverages the exceptional
Kizashi platform and infuses it with a substantial boost.
The Kizashi Apex Concept will further elevate our flagship
sedan amongst enthusiasts who crave added power and performance,” said
Younan.
Key to the Apex Concept’s performance is its air-to-liquid
intercooler which is designed for more effective charge air
cooling in a smaller package. The unit’s relatively
small heat exchanger and circulation pump are designed for
minimal intrusions 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.
The body’s striking livery is based on Suzuki’s
motorcycle racing design theme and hints at the vehicles
bloodline to the legendary Suzuki GSX-R Superbike.
For a more dramatic front-end the lower fascia features customised
LED-based fog lights while Yokohama S.Drive 245/35-R19 tyres
offer advanced nanotechnology micro-fibre compounds to maximum
traction in wet and dry conditions.
HID headlamps and special light-weight 19 inch alloy wheels
with a ‘burnt asphalt’ finish complete the high-level
performance package.
Inside, the cabin receives an eye-catching treatment in black
leather with laser blue Alcantara® accents on the sports
seats and steering wheel.


Kizashi
Apex Specifications
Type: 2.4-litre inline four, intercooled and turbocharged
Projected Peak Power: 210-220 kW @ 5800-6200 rpm
Mass Air Flow at Peak Power: 27.6 lb/min (0.209
kg/sec)
Maximum Pressure Boost Level: 8.5 psi (1.5 bar absolute)
Fuel Flow at Peak Power: 123 lbs/hr (312 cc/min/injector – 4
injectors)
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