Suzuki EcoCharge & Apex Kizashi Concepts : First Look

Jay Williams - 21/April/2011

Shizuoka, Japan - Suzuki has revealed two 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 has the eco-conscious in mind, featuring 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.

Director of automotive marketing and product planning for American Suzuki Motor Corporation, Steve Youman said, "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."

In addition to the hybrid system, Suzuki has also used 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 can be identifyed by its specialised headlight treatment, LED fog light illumination across the front fascia, new-look lightweight alloy wheels and a unique luminescent white satin paint.

And, for the performance side of things, the Kizashi Apex Concept salutes Suzuki’s legendary motorcycling heritage boasting a Garrett turbocharger, an air-to-liquid intercooler, electronic boost control and a sports engine control unit (ECU).

Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the turbocharged engine boosts peak output into the 210-220kW range with a maximum boost of 8.5psi.

"Our turbo-equipped concept leverages the exceptional Kizashi platform and infuses it with a substantial boost. The Kizashi Apex Concept will further elevate our flagship sedan amongst enthusiasts who crave added power and performance," said Younan.

Key to the Apex Concept’s performance is its air-to-liquid intercooler which is designed for more effective charge air cooling in a smaller package. The unit’s relatively small heat exchanger and circulation pump are designed for minimal intrusions to vehicle cooling. The intercooler’s primary advantage comes from the reduction in the overall length of ducting which results in less turbo lag for a faster throttle response.

The Apex Concept’s body decals are based on Suzuki’s motorcycle racing design theme and hints at the vehicles bloodline to the legendary Suzuki GSX-R Superbike.

For a more dramatic front-end the lower fascia features customised LED fog lights while Yokohama S.Drive 245/35-R19 tyres offer advanced nanotechnology micro-fibre compounds for maximum traction in wet and dry conditions.

HID headlamps and special light-weight 19-inch alloy wheels with a 'burnt asphalt' finish complete the high-level performance package.

Inside, the cabin receives black leather with laser blue Alcantara accents on the sports seats and steering wheel.

Both concepts will make their debut at New York International Auto Show tomorrow.

Kizashi EcoCharge Concept
Engine Type: J20B DOHC I-4
Displacement (cu in / cc): 1,998
Valvetrain: Intake-VVT
Power: 106kW at 6500rpm
Torque: 173Nm at 4500rpm
Fuel economy target (Hwy): 25 percent improvement over production Kizashi
Transmission type: 6-speed automatic
Electric Drive System type: Belt-driven, liquid-cooled induction motor/generator unit and lithium-ion battery system; air-cooled power electronics and battery pack
Maximum electric generating power: 15kW at 1,570-3,180rpm
Maximum electric motor power(electric assist): 11.2kW at 1000-2200rpm
Lithium-ion battery: 115V, 0.5-kWh, 15kW peak power

Kizashi Apex Concept
Engine: 2.4-litre inline four, intercooled and turbocharged
Projected Peak Power: 210-220kW at 5800-6200rpm
Mass Air Flow at Peak Power: 27.6 lb/min (0.209 kg/sec)
Maximum Pressure Boost Level: 8.5 psi (1.5 bar absolute)
Fuel Flow at Peak Power: 123 lbs/hr (312 cc/min/injector - 4 injectors)

Related Links:
- Suzuki Swift (2011)
- Suzuki Kizashi (2010)
- Suzuki SX4 (2010)
- Suzuki Alto (2009)
- Suzuki Grand Vitara (2009)
- Suzuki Splash (2008)
- Suzuki SX4 (Road Test)
- Suzuki Grand Vitara Diesel DDiS (2008)
- Suzuki Makai Concept (2007)
- Suzuki Kizashi, SX4 WRC (2007)