Ki-what? Come on, Suzuki

Check out this press release about a new sedan from Suzuki. I like Suzuki - it's a company that makes underrated cars. But maybe one of the reasons the company gets overlooked by U.S. buyers is that it thinks it can name its cars Kizashi. Come on, now - do you really think American consumers are going to buy something called Kizashi (unless it comes as a side with your sushi order)?

 Sort of reminds me of some ghetto mama who names her kid Laquandarionus then doesn't understand why the kid doesn't get a fair shake in life.

Not to say that every kid needs to be named John or Mary. Nor to say that every car needs to be called Malibu or Fusion.

But I am saying think about what kind of image you are conveying before you name something, parents and car companies.

• Kizashi is the best equipped mid-size sedan starting under $19,000, with volume models averaging between $22,000 and $24,000.　　

 

• Kizashi offers the most standard safety features in its price class and already meets the NHTSA’s 2014 safety standards.

 

• The AWD Kizashi, available in all trim levels with CVT transmission, can be purchased for less than some of the segment’s volume leading FWD sedans.

 

 

BREA, Calif. (Nov. 5, 2009) – Tapping in to its heritage of building high performance outboard motors and motorcycles, American Suzuki Motor Corp. today announces pricing for the all-new 2010 Kizashi sedan (pronounced “Kee-Zah-Shee”) which will debut in dealer showrooms in December 2009.

 

The Kizashi offers a unique blend of dynamic performance attributes, premium design aesthetics and craftsmanship yet to be experienced in this category. Suzuki expands on its best-in-class platform while offering features more appropriate to the near-luxury segment. In short, Kizashi delivers a premium package and experience without the premium price tag.

 

With the well-equipped entry-level Kizashi S priced between $18,999 and $21,749 (plus $735 for destination and handling), a prospective customer enjoys an energetic platform, comfortable accommodation and expressive design for prices appropriate to a modestly equipped compact. This base price includes many standard features usually found in vehicles costing thousands more or as options in the competitive class. Standard features of the Kizashi S include:

• 8 airbags (front/rear side and curtain)
• Pushbutton keyless start
• Dual-zone climate control
• 9-speaker audio with steering controls
• EPS Stability Control and ABS
• Projector beam headlamps
• Power windows, doors and mirrors
• Ambient and footwell lighting