Page 1 of 1 Suzuki America has revealed two innovative and eye-catching new concepts ahead of the New York International Auto Show - an environmentally-friendly Kizashi EcoCharge Concept and a high-performance Kizashi Apex Concept.
The Kizashi EcoCharge Concept points to the company's efforts in eco-conscious motoring with a 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine working in tandem with an advanced electric propulsion system combining a liquid-cooled 15kW motor with a 115-volt air-cooled lithium-ion battery.
Matched to a six-speed automatic transmission, the hybrid sees a 25 per cent improvement on real-world fuel economy over its petrol Kizashi sibling.
"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.
In addition to the hybrid system, Suzuki has employed numerous other fuel-conserving technologies including regenerative braking, an engine stop-start system, fuel cut-off during deceleration and low-rolling resistance tyres.
From the outside, the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept distances itself from its production sibling with specialised headlight treatment, LED fog light illumination across the front fascia, new-look lightweight alloy wheels and a unique luminescent white satin paint finish with subtle blue undertones. Page 1 of 1