Auto News 5

We're nine months into our Suzuki Kizashi's yearlong test, but it took only a few hundred miles to figure out which automakers Suzuki is trying to emulate, with driving dynamics inspired by Mazda, an interior worthy of a Volkswagen, and Hyundai-like value (dual-zone climate control, passive entry, and keyless ignition are standard equipment). "With Mazda looking to move upmarket and Volkswagen now building watered-down cars for American buyers, there seems to be a niche that Suzuki can fill for buyers who want something outside of the mainstream," notes associate editor Eric Tingwall.