The old adage states that two heads are better than one – and that’s what Suzuki and General Motors are determined to prove with their next generation hybrid system.
The two motoring companies have joined forces with the intention of introducing the mid-size Kizashi saloon car to the North American market in 2011. The vehicle will use small but high capacity lithium-ion batteries and should get 20 per cent better mileage than comparable petrol powered cars.
So what can we expect from the Kizashi?
It will be an all-wheel drive sport saloon car – the first mid-size saloon from Suzuki and one that is seen as vital to increasing its share in the North American market. The conventional version is equipped with a 2.4 litre DOHC inline four-cylinder engine that employs both an aluminium block and cylinder heads and provides a lightweight installation.
The inline four is connected to a six-speed manual transmission that provides heightened performance in the lower gears as well as a relaxed and economical cruising capability in the higher gears. Consumers can also choose a continuously variable transmission. According to Suzuki, the fuel economy will be competitive with either choice.
Indeed GM and Suzuki have been working together for several years and have continued with their combined efforts despite the US manufacturer filing for bankruptcy in June. Suzuki also plans to introduce a smaller hybrid equivalent with a 1.3 litre petrol engine in the Japanese market.
