The Suzuki Kizashi is an all-new entry for 2010: a small-to-midsize sedan that provides some luxury and sporty features as standard equipment. Kizashi is the Japanese word for ?portent? or ?omen,? usually in a hopeful sense,and Suzuki hopes to establish the Kizashi as its flagship model. Interestingly,the Kizashi is one of few models in its class to offer all-wheel drive (AWD) for all trim levels.

The entry-level 2010 Suzuki Kizashi S features 16-inch wheels,dual-zone climate control,keyless entry and ignition,power accessories,and a 9-speaker sound system. The Kizashi SE trim features 17-inch alloy wheels and cruise control,and adds leather to the steering wheel and power to the driver?s seat. The Kizashi GTS employs 18-inch wheels and adds a sunroof,fog lights,and an upgraded sound system. The top trim,Kizashi SLS,steps up to leather upholstery and heated front seats,plus automatic headlights and rear parking sensors. The Kizashi?s trunk provides 13.3 cubic feet of cargo space,according to Suzuki.

The 2010 Suzuki Kizashi?s standard power plant is a 185-horsepower,2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive (FWD) and a 6-speed manual transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional,and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard with that option. The CVT is also standard on the FWD Kizashi SE. The base trim delivers 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway,according to the EPA. Kizashi models with CVT and AWD deliver 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Standard safety features on the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi include anti-lock disc brakes,stability control,traction control,front and rear side air bags,and side curtain air bags. In government crash tests,the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Kizashi 5 out of 5 stars in front- and side-impact tests,and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

Starting MSRPs for the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi ranged from $18,999 to $26,899.