Suzuki set tongues wagging at the New York International Auto Show by unveiling two Kizashi concept models – one powered by a fuel-sipping hybrid drivetrain and the other enjoying a raucous, high peformance turbocharged engine.
The Suzuki EcoCharge concept sees its 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine mated with a 15kW, liquid-cooled electric motor, powered by a 115-volt lithium-ion battery. Driving through a six-speed manual transmission, Suzuki says the hybrid Kizashi improves the current model’s 7.9l/100kms fuel consumption by as much as 25 per cent.
As well as the hybrid drivetrain, the Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge concept employs regenerative braking, low-resistance tyres and auto start/stop to boost its reduced fuel consumption.
At the other end of the scale, Suzuki’s Kizashi Apex concept generates 220kW of power thanks to a Garret turbocharger with air-to-liquid intercooler and a re-tune of the electronic engine management system in the 2.0-litre engine.
Combined with interior and exterior enhancements – including a paint scheme borrowed from Suzuki’s GSX-R racing superbike – the Kizashi Apex gives the good-looking Kizashi the performance edge its excellent chassis has long needed.
We’re sure Suzuki Australia boss Tony Devers would love to see the Kizashi Apex go into series production.
