RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA - Suzuki made its global debut of the all-new 2010 Kizashi mid-sized sedan July 30 in Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif., marking the automaker's first entry into the all-wheel-drive sports sedan segment.

"In developing and naming our newest automotive introduction, the Japanese word 'Kizashi,' defined as 'something great is coming,' seemed appropriate for the vehicle," said Kevin Saito, president, American Suzuki. "Now that the production model has arrived, we expect the name and product itself to clearly demonstrate the bold statement this company knew it would be making with the debut of this vehicle."

Does the world need a new mid-size sedan? According to Suzuki, the industry is missing a world-class sports sedan that the average consumer can afford. A premium vehicle without the premium price tag. This is where the Kizashi comes in.

Built at Suzuki's brand-new manufacturing facility in Sagara, Japan, the 2010 Kizashi is equipped with a standard 2.4L DOHC I-4 engine, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. An optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) will be available.

The vehicle's braking system offers standard four-wheel disk brakes and includes suppliers such as Akebono, a leader in noise, vibration, harshness (NVH) control and analysis and supplier of brakes for the Japanese Bullet trains.

In regards to safety, the all-new Kazashi includes eight standard airbags, electronic stability program (ESP), an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, projector beam headlights, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

2010 Suzuki Kizashi U.S. Specs

Body Type: Sedan

Engine: J24B

Drive System: 2WD / AWD

Transmission: 6MT or CVT / CVT

Dimensions

Overall Length (in.): 173.1

Overall Width (in.): 71.7

Overall Height (in.): 58.3

Wheel Base (in.): 106.3

Kizashi is scheduled to arrive in show rooms this winter and will serve as the company's flagship vehicle.