Two new Suzuki Kizashi Concepts - one frugal, one powerful

             

Suzuki is having a bet each way in the performance vs fuel efficiency stakes with the unveiling of two new additions to its long-running line of Kizashi concepts at the New York International Auto Show. While the Kizashi EcoCharge hybrid concept combines a 2.0-liter petrol engine,15kW motor and a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery to optimize fuel efficiency, it's show floor stablemate the Kizashi Apex Concept is geared toward performance.

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Kizashi EcoCharge Concept

The EcoCharge Concept's hybrid system is made up of a 2.0-liter, four cylinder petrol engine, a liquid-cooled 15kW motor and a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery. Throw in regenerative braking, engine stop-start system, fuel cut-off during deceleration, a six-speed automatic transmission, lightweight alloy wheels and low-rolling resistance tires and Suzuki says the Concept will better the petrol only production version by 25 percent in terms of fuel economy.

"The basis for the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept was to attain substantial gains in fuel economy without the traditional sacrifices in drivability. While delivering a substantial fuel-economy gain, the electric charge to the powertrain system has still retained the dynamic handling advantages that make the Kizashi a standout category performer," said Steve Youman, director of automotive marketing and product planning for American Suzuki Motor Corporation.

Kizashi Apex Concept

On the other end of the scale, the Kizashi Apex Concept meanwhile is aimed squarely at performance. Splicing some of its DNA from the company's GSX-R Superbike, the Apex Concept packs a Garrett turbocharger, six-speed manual transmission and electronic boost control to achieve a claimed peak output into the 210-220 kW range (just under 300 horses) with maximum boost of 8.5 psi.

The air-to-liquid intercooler design has also been scaled down to reduce turbo lag and improve throttle response.

On the outside the Apex gets a makeover based on the Suzuki's motorcycle racing colors, LED-based fog lights and 19 inch alloy wheels while the interior gets the black leather treatment.