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

Click here for more details of Suzuki Kizashi

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)

Suzuki's Total Effective Control Technology concept (TECT) has been implemented on the All New Swift with higher strength steel used throughout the vehicle for greater safety.

The new Suzuki Swift comes in 3 models, GA, GL and GLX as well as the iconic Swift Sport.

The Swift GA features a zippy 70kW, 1.4-litre, 4 cylinder VVT engine and boasts a fuel consumption of only 5.5 litres per 100kms.

Interior refinements include a CD player with USB connectivity and a 4 speaker sound system. You can simply plug in you iPod® and play.

The Swift GL delivers more style, with body coloured door handles and mirrors with integrated indicators. The Swift GL also provides the luxury of a leather steering wheel with audio controls for easy control of stereo functions.

The Swift GLX features a keyless push start system allowing the driver to start and stop the engine by pushing a button on the instrument panel as well as the safety of hands free communication with the convenience of steering wheel controls.

The GLX also has an air conditioner that automatically controls the air temperate, fan speed, and vents to keep the cabin at the user's desired temperature.

Click here for more details of Suzuki Swift