The new Suzuki Kizashi has won positive early reviews from the automotive press with its upscale interior and sporty tuning for stoplight-to-stoplight performance – but many have said that the car won’t make sense for many buyers unless Suzuki can keep it affordable. 

Suzuki is listening.

Motor Trend reports, “Suzuki has just announced pricing for its all-new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi, with the base price of the sport-themed sedan coming in at $19,734 [including a $735 destination charge] for the entry-level Kizashi S, which can be optioned up to $22,480. For that change, you get more than a fair amount of standard equipment, all part of Suzuki's strategy to deliver ‘premium packaging without the premium price tag.’”

Edmunds Inside Line notes, “In comparison, the base 2010 Toyota Camry with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission starts at $20,145, and “The base 2010 Honda Accord LX with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission starts at $21,765.”  The Kizashi’s base model offers standard equipment, such as a nine-speaker stereo system with steering-wheel mounted controls and dual-zone climate control, which the entry-level Camry and Accord models don’t.

The midsize Kizashi, Kicking Tires writes, “is aimed at the heart of the American car market.”  When it first goes on sale next month, it will be offered with only a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 185 horsepower, but a six-cylinder is expected to arrive by next spring.  Buyers will be able to choose between a Continuously Variable Transmission and a six-speed manual.  All-wheel-drive is available on every trim level – something only the Subaru Legacy offers for a similar price. 

Even more well-equipped models will be less-expensive than most other affordable midsize cars.  Autoblog notes, “Move up to the SE model that ranges in price from $21,499 to $22,749 and enjoy 17-inch alloys, a power driver's seat, leather steering wheel and cruise control. The next model is our personal favorite, the GTS. The sportiest of Kizashi models comes with a six-speed manual or a performance-tuned CVT (get the manual) for $22,499 to $24,849.”  The most expensive Kizashi, fully outfitted with heated leather seats and every available option, will top out at $26,749.  Comparably-equipped Toyota Camry and Honda Accord models can cost over $30,000.

Inside Line calls the numbers, “A smart pricing strategy for Suzuki, especially if it wants to make inroads in this super-competitive segment.”  They make a strong value argument for the car – but only time, and sales figures, will tell whether Americans are willing to buy a midsize car with a premium image from a company known mostly for motorcycles and economy hatchbacks.

If you're in the market for a new car, check out the U.S. News rankings of this year's best cars as well as this month's best car deals.