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Suzuki sharpens the 2011 Kizashi Sport SLS

While the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS is nimble for its class, it still has a hard time living up to the promise of its aggressive looks and "Sport" designation.

Antuan Goodwin Reviews Editor / Cars
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Expertise Reviewing cars and car technology since 2008 focusing on electrification, driver assistance and infotainment Credentials
  • North American Car, Truck and SUV of the Year (NACTOY) Awards Juror
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Antuan Goodwin
Josh Miller/CNET

Most of the Kizashi Sport's upgrades over the S come in the form of body work, chrome bright work, and the 18-inch wheels.
Most of the Kizashi Sport's upgrades over the S come in the form of body work, chrome brightwork, and the 18-inch wheels. Josh Miller/CNET

The last time we went behind the wheel of a Suzuki, we called the 2010 Kizashi S a sheep in wolf's clothing. It was a well manufactured sedan with acceptable levels of power and nimble-enough handling, but the Kizashi simply didn't live up to the sporty promise of its aggressively styled sheet metal. This second time around, we took the wheel of Suzuki's midsized sedan with a Sport badge affixed to its rear decklid.

Taking a look at the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS' specs, we see that (as expected) not much has changed in just a single model year. The 425-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system still rivals the 185-horsepower engine as the most powerful force affixed to the Kizashi's chassis. Suzuki justifies its new Sport designation with body styling that's even more aggressive than the last outing, larger 18-inch wheels, and a suspension that's been sport tuned and lowered by 10mm. But, are mere suspension tweaks enough to make a wolf out of this sheep?

Check out the full review of the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS for more details, photos, and video.