Suzuki’s new Kizashi sedan is perhaps the company’s most important new model in years. While the SX4 hatchback and sedan helped transition the company away from large SUVs, the midsize Kizashi is aimed at the heart of the American car market. A well-equipped Kizashi with a manual transmission starts at $18,999; the entry-level S model with a continuously variable automatic transmission costs $20,499. The price does not include a $735 destination charge. The car goes on sale in December.

Unlike most of the competitors in the class, you can get all-wheel drive on every trim level, starting at $21,749. All-wheel-drive models only come equipped with the CVT.

While the Kizashi is relatively well-equipped to start — push-button start, nine-speaker stereo system with steering-wheel controls and USB, dual-zone climate control and ambient lighting — and it doesn’t undercut the class in terms of price. The new 2010 Subaru Legacy starts at $19,995 with standard all-wheel drive, and the 2010 Hyundai Sonata starts at $18,700.

If Suzuki wants to steal sales from the segment’s big boys like the slightly more expensive Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Ford Fusion — or even the value leaders — on a nameplate no one has previously heard of, it’s going to have to sell consumers on the features.

Full pricing and trim-level breakdown are below, and check out our earlier coverage of the Kizashi for more photos.

Kizashi S

Standard electronic stability control and ABS, 16-inch wheels, nine-speaker stereo with USB, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, auto up/down front windows, tilt/telescoping steering wheel

Kizashi SE

Adds CVT standard, 17-inch wheels, power driver’s seat, cruise control, leather-wrapped steering wheelKizashi GTS
Adds 18-inch wheels, steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles on CVT model, Rockford Fosgate stereo, Bluetooth with streaming audio, fog lights, power moonroof

Kizashi STS

Adds leather seats, heated front seats, power passenger seat, heated side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors

2010|Suzuki|Kizashi