2012 Suzuki Kizashi Review
Price Estimate: $3,560 - $5,558
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- European-style interior
- inspired handling
- responsive continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- available all-wheel drive
- great value.
Cons
- Less rear legroom than rivals
- no V6 or turbo engine option
- limited dealer network.
What’s new
2012 Suzuki Kizashi buyers can now get leather upholstery on the midrange SE trim level.
Edmunds says
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is one of the best among midsize sedans, but a limited dealer network has kept it out of the spotlight.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
10 listings
- 105,052 miles
- 23 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 77 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in York, PA
2012 SUZUKI KIZASHI S - AWD - 2.4L I4 - 105K MILES - RUNS GREAT!! This is a NICE condition and PA safety & emission inspected 2012 SUZUKI KIZASHI S AW...
- Features and Specs:
- 25 Combined MPG (23 City/30 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- JS2RF9A11C6100830
- Stock:
- 100830
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 09-23-2025
- 153,500 miles
- 23 City / 30 Hwy MPG
- 112 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Altoona, PA
Rates and terms based on credit
- Features and Specs:
- 25 Combined MPG (23 City/30 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- JS2RF9A13C6100652
- Stock:
- 5273A
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 11-12-2025
Vehicle overview
Success is measured in a variety of ways. For automobiles, success is generally determined by sales numbers, but in the case of the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi this metric proves elusive. While the Kizashi is one of the better choices among midsize sedans, Suzuki's limited dealer network makes it more of a sleeper success in the segment.
It's likely that if Suzuki's presence and marketing budget were as large as its competition, shoppers would take notice of the 2012 Kizashi. With distinct European styling and a refined interior that exceeds expectations, it's a shame more people either don't know about it or don't have convenient access to one. Furthermore, the Kizashi provides as much comfort as it does excitement behind the wheel.
Comparing the Kizashi to more readily available midsize sedans reveals that it's slightly down on rear legroom, but by no means cramped. And while the Suzuki's 2.4-liter engine provides ample motivation, there's no turbo or V6 option. Nor is there a hybrid alternative.
But even with these minor drawbacks, the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is still worthy of consideration among tough competition. We rank the Hyundai Sonata and related Kia Optima on top of the family sedan segment, with the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry remaining great choices as well. But if you happen to have a Suzuki dealer nearby, we highly recommend checking out the 2012 Kizashi, as it's really a success waiting to be noticed.
Performance & mpg
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the S, Sport GTS and Sport SLS with front-wheel drive, while a CVT is optional on those trims and standard on the SE and AWD models. Models with the six-speed manual transmission produce 185 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, while CVT-equipped variants are detuned slightly to produce 180 hp. Front-wheel drive is standard on all trims, with AWD optional.
In performance testing, a Kizashi SLS with the six-speed manual and front-wheel drive went from zero to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds -- slightly above average performance for a four-cylinder midsize sedan. With the CVT, that drops to a class-average 9.1 seconds.
Estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 25 mpg in combined driving on the S model with the manual transmission, while the CVT model is rated at 23/31/26 mpg. Other trims produce mileage results within 1 or 2 mpg, with even the AWD Kizashi returning 22/29/25 mpg.
Safety
Standard safety features on all 2012 Suzuki Kizashis include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front and rear side airbags and side curtain airbags. In Edmunds brake testing, the Kizashi GTS with 18-inch wheels came to a stop in an excellent 114 feet.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Kizashi its top score of "Good" for frontal-offset and side-impact protection and its second-best score of "Acceptable" in roof strength tests.
Driving
For drivers looking for a little more excitement out of a family sedan, the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi should prove satisfying. With plenty of grip and adequately weighted steering, the Kizashi can easily take on curvy roads. The suspension tuning is a little firm, but it's not significant enough to sour the overall experience. We expect the Sport models, with a 10mm lower ride height, will be slightly stiffer still. On the highway, the Kizashi is quiet and gives drivers a long fuel range between fill-ups.
Output from the four-cylinder is adequate. The six-speed manual transmission's shifter can seem slightly vague for first-time drivers, but it becomes more intuitive with use. Unlike some other CVTs, the Kizashi's does an admirable job of keeping power on tap without much hesitation or the typical engine drone. The paddle shifters are an added plus for more sporting drivers who demand more control.
Interior
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi's interior is notable for its use of upscale materials and pleasing design. Not only is it uncharacteristically sophisticated for a Suzuki, but for midsize sedans in general. Passenger comfort is bolstered by ample headroom and well-shaped seats, although those riding in the backseat may find it lacking in legroom compared to most other midsize sedans.
Our complaints are few, with some noting that the oversized font on the radio display can only show a few characters at a time. Also, the trunk is on the small side, accommodating only 13.3 cubic feet of cargo.
2012 Suzuki Kizashi models
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is a midsize sedan available in S, SE, Sport GTS and Sport SLS trim levels.
The Kizashi S comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, keyless ignition/entry, full power accessories, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. When equipped with the CVT, the S gains cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a seven-speaker stereo with USB port/iPod interface. The SE includes all of the above, plus 17-inch alloy wheels, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and an eight-way power driver seat with memory settings and power lumbar adjustment. Leather upholstery is available as an option on the SE trim.
The Sport GTS adds 18-inch wheels, sporty exterior treatments (front fascia, side sills and a rear spoiler), foglights, a sunroof, a sport-tuned suspension with a lower ride height, a 10-speaker Rockford Fosgate stereo and Bluetooth phone connectivity/audio streaming. Sport GTS models with AWD also receive steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles (optional on front-wheel-drive models).
The top-shelf Kizashi Sport SLS adds automatic headlamps, automatic wipers, heated sideview mirrors, rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Optional on the SLS is a navigation system with a rearview camera.

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2015 Honda Pilot Earns Four-Star Safety Rating From Federal Government

2010-'13 Suzuki Kizashi Recalled for Fire Risk Linked to Spiders
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
Owners genuinely appreciate the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi for its impressive handling and European-inspired driving dynamics. Time and again, drivers highlight how the Kizashi's precise steering and confident grip make navigating twisty roads a delight, often comparing it favorably to more established luxury brands like Audi and BMW. The interior design and build quality receive praise as well, with many finding it unexpectedly premium and sophisticated, particularly for a brand often perceived as budget-friendly. Comfort features like heated front seats and dual-zone climate control enhance daily driving experiences and long commutes alike. Another common sentiment is the standout exclusivity in aesthetics; Kizashi owners enjoy turning heads with this stylish sedan that doesn’t blend into the background. Even more appealing is the value-for-money proposition this car offers, providing a high level of features and performance without the hefty price tag typical of its rivals.
Common Issues
Drivers of the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi frequently cite issues with the vehicle's continuously variable transmission (CVT) as a significant pain point. Many have experienced transmission failures, leading to costly repairs or rendering the car inoperable. The push-to-start system is another source of frustration, occasionally leaving drivers stranded due to malfunctioning error codes. While the Kizashi's exterior and interior design are generally admired, some owners report that the paint quality is subpar, leading to chips and rust over time. Additionally, the dashboard controls for the infotainment and warning systems are criticized for lack of intuitive use, particularly the tire pressure monitoring system that fails to identify which tire is low. Winter conditions also reveal functional weaknesses in the windshield wipers and washers, which are noted to freeze or malfunction, compromising visibility.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi manages to carve a niche for itself with its reputation for delivering a satisfying daily driving experience. Despite occasional complaints about specific mechanical issues, many drivers feel a sense of pride in owning a sedan that stands out in terms of style and performance. The Kizashi’s capability in snowy conditions is particularly applauded, with the optional all-wheel-drive system proving its worth in tricky weather. Interior comforts, such as the heated seats and upscale materials, enhance the everyday commute and have received positive feedback from drivers navigating both city streets and long highway trips. While some models have experienced issues with the CVT, owners who maintain their vehicles report enduring satisfaction and reliability. With admiration for its responsive handling and sleek design.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$187/mo for Kizashi S
Kizashi S
vs
$203/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
5 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 19V343000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- C5
- Manufactured from:
- 2009-10-13 to 2012-10-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 21052
- Defect Description:
- Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling 2010-2013 Kizashi vehicles. The front passenger seat Occupant Classification System (OCS) may misclassify an adult occupant as child and deactivate the front air bag.
- Defect Consequence:
- The deactivated front air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Suzuki will notify owners, and service providers will replace the front passenger seat cushion, which includes a new OCS mat assembly, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed on October 29, 2021. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall is C5.
- Recall Number:
- 19V187000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 4011, 4012
- Manufactured from:
- 2005-05-24 to 2006-05-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 31302
- Defect Description:
- Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Kizashi and 2006-2013 Grand Vitara vehicles. The front passenger leather seat may shrink due to high humidity and high temperature. As a result, the occupant classification system (OCS) sensor mat may not accurately detect if an adult or child is occupying the seat.
- Defect Consequence:
- In the event of a crash necessitating airbag deployment, an incorrect classification may result in the passenger frontal air bag deploying even if there is a child in the front passenger seat, increasing their risk of injury.
- Corrective Action:
- Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat bottom cushion, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed on May 3, 2019. All second letters notifying owners of the remedy were mailed by April 10, 2020. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's numbers for this recall are 4011 and 4012.
- Recall Number:
- 18V769000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- CY
- Manufactured from:
- 2009-10-13 to 2012-10-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 21063
- Defect Description:
- Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Suzuki Kizashi vehicles. Dust can enter the vent line that provides fresh air to the carbon canister, restricting its air flow and possibly creating excessive negative pressure in the fuel tank which may result in the fuel tank cracking.
- Defect Consequence:
- A cracked tank may leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Suzuki has sent owners an initial notification to inform them of the recall. When parts are available, a second notice will be mailed and dealers will install a cover over the opening near the suction pipe inlet, and relocate the suction filter. The fuel cap and fuel tank will also be replaced with improved parts. The recall began August 12, 2019. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934.
- Recall Number:
- 14V811000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- VL
- Manufactured from:
- 2011-06-01 to 2012-05-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 60823
- Defect Description:
- Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 SX4 vehicles manufactured July 16, 2009, to November 1, 2012, and 2010-2013 Kizashi vehicles manufactured October 13, 2009, to October 31, 2012. The shift selector can be moved out of the "Park" position without depressing the brake pedal.
- Defect Consequence:
- If the shift selector is moved out of the "Park" position while the brake pedal is not depressed, the vehicle may unexpectedly roll, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Suzuki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shift selector assembly and inspect, and if necessary, replace the shift knob, free of charge. The recall began January 16, 2015. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-714-996-7040. Suzuki's number for this recall is VL.
- Recall Number:
- 14V464000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- VG
- Manufactured from:
- 2011-06-01 to 2012-06-30
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 19249
- Defect Description:
- Suzuki Motor Of America, Inc. (Suzuki) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kizashi vehicles manufactured October 2009 through July 2012. In the affected vehicles, spiders may weave a web in the evaporative canister vent hose, blocking it and causing the fuel tank to have an excessive amount of negative pressure.
- Defect Consequence:
- Negative pressure could cause the fuel tank to crack resulting in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Corrective Action:
- Suzuki is in the process of notifying owners, and dealers will replace the evaporative canister vent line on the affected vehicles with a vent line that has a filter on the end. If the canister vent line is found to be obstructed by a spider web, the fuel tank will also be replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 12, 2014. Owners may contact Suzuki customer service at 1-800-934-0934. Suzuki's number for this recall is VG.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 7 years / 100,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 5 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
Suzuki Kizashi Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(82%)
4(15%)
3(0%)
2(0%)
1(3%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
173 000 km review (best car ever owned)
5 out of 5 starsbigjohn23, 01/16/2015
2012 Suzuki Kizashi Sport SLS 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl CVT)
The Suzuki Kizashi is a very good looking car inside and out. I then started to look at the specs and wow...it had a lot of features (especially for the price and the iAWD system). Not even a single problem so far. The only complaints is the wipers are not the best and the gas mileage could be better, but I mean it is a heavy car that does not get stuck in any snow/ice. It has a … wonderful Rockford Fosgate audio system and you can put it front-wheel drive or intelligent all-wheel drive whenever you want with a push of a button. I had 2 Audi A4 Quattro in the past and the Kizashi handles even better. It is basically an A4 (same features, same look), but a lot cheaper and more RELIABLE. You won't regret it!
Update (July 2016/62 000 km) : Still the best car I ever owned....incredible in the snow! Very reliable, comfortable, etc. The audio system is awesome. I did not change anything besides the original tires, the rear rotors and all the breaks.
Update (June 2018/100 000 km) : No issue to report. Thinking about my next car (4-5 years from now probably), but I still love my Kizashi!
Update (December 2018/110 000 km) : Replaced shocks at 105 000 km. Still an awesome car.
Update (December 2019/130 000 km) : Still love my Kizashi! Replaced rear bushings since last update.
Update (July 2020/135 000 km) : Still running strong. Had to replace original battery and original windshield washer pump (rust) recently
Update July 2021 (150 000 km). Nothing to report except one spot of rust on one fender and one on hood and replaced spark plugs. Still love the car!
Update January 2022 (160 000 km). Had to replace front rotors and brake pads since last update. Front passenger seat heating not working anymore (ripped leather)
Update January 2023 (173 000 km) : Had to replace rear breaks and rotors since last update. Had 2 rust spots repaired as well.
Kizashi vs Jetta
4.75 out of 5 starssabkosalam, 06/04/2011
2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport GTS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6M)
I have an 06 jetta and just got my Kizashi. Its only natural for me to compare the two.
I have fallen in love with the Kizashi so I only want to mention the things I didn't like or am not used to.
Car is extremely beautiful but too low, I'd be scared to drive on serious bumps/snow. Doors don't lock automatically when you start driving. All four windows are not on one touch auto like … jetta (I am spoiled by this jetta feature). Center armrest doesn't extend forward like jetta. Floor Mats are too black, can see dirt. Harsh ride in the GTS sport trim that we got. Has bump steer because of strong suspension. Front passenger seat can't be moved up and down like the Jetta.
Best bang for your buck!
5 out of 5 starsmtloveskg, 06/13/2011
2011 Suzuki Kizashi SE 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl CVT)
I tested a Sonata, Camry, Accord and Optima. After uears of buying just Honda and Kia I decided to take a chance on one of Japans top selling manufacturers. It paid off! I LOVE this car! Fun ride, great comfort for someone like me (6'4). Very peppy engine. Sweet in and out!
2011 GTS impulse buy / AWD w. navigation
4.75 out of 5 starsKizDan, 11/29/2010
2011 Suzuki Kizashi S 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6M)
We took our 2008 SX4 to the local dealership (Ellis Suzuki) for the 15,000 mile checkup. While we were waiting we saw the silver GTS and fell in love. Took it for a drive and came home with it. I hate impulse buys, but I've not had any regrets with this purchase. I always wanted navigation, and this GTS had it installed. Stereo is wonderful, although I was surprised it only held one … cd. Used the IPOD connection, and it sounded wonderful. Bluetooth worked with Iphone just great. I could go on and on. Oh, I could have gotten a 2010 for a lot less, but I really liked the changes in body styling on the 2011.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi, so we've included reviews for other years of the Kizashi since its last redesign.
2012 Kizashi Features & Specs
S
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $18,999 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 25 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $187/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 13.3 cu.ft. |
front wheel drive | |
| Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Kizashi include:
- Back-up camera
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover10.9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestAcceptable
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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