No. The Suzuki Kizashi lineup included both a CVT automatic and a six-speed manual transmission, depending on trim, model year, and market.
The Kizashi was produced from 2009 to 2013, and within that span Suzuki offered two primary transmission choices to accommodate different driving preferences and regional requirements.
Transmission options in the Kizashi lineup
The Kizashi was built with two main transmissions. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) was the common automatic option, designed to optimize fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. A traditional six-speed manual was also available on select trims and in some markets, giving drivers a more engaged driving experience.
- CVT automatic: Found on most models; delivers smooth operation and tends to maximize fuel economy. Many CVT-equipped Kizashi variants also offered a manual shift mode for simulated gears.
- Six-speed manual: Offered on certain trims and model years; provides direct gear engagement and a sportier driving feel. Availability varied by region and year.
In practice, buyers could encounter either transmission depending on where the car was sold and which trim they chose; not every Kizashi came with a manual option.
Regional availability and model-year nuance
Availability of the manual vs CVT varied by market and year. In North America, the CVT was the more common automatic configuration, while a six-speed manual appeared on select trims during certain model years. In Europe and other regions, CVT was often the default, with the manual option being less widespread or offered only on limited models.
United States and Canada
In the U.S. and Canada, most Kizashi models shipped with CVT as the standard automatic option. A six-speed manual transmission was available on certain trims and model years, offering enthusiasts a more involved driving experience when/where it was offered.
Europe, Asia, and other markets
Europe and many other markets tended to emphasize the CVT as the primary automatic choice. The manual transmission was less commonly offered outside North America, and its availability depended on the year and local dealer specifications.
Conclusion
The Suzuki Kizashi is not exclusively CVT-equipped. While the CVT was the prevalent automatic configuration across many markets, Suzuki did offer a six-speed manual on select trims and in certain regions during the model’s run from 2009 through 2013. If you are evaluating a used Kizashi, verify the specific vehicle’s transmission on the listing or by checking the VIN to confirm which option you are getting.
Summary
Bottom line: The Suzuki Kizashi offered two main transmission options—CVT automatic and a six-speed manual—with availability that varied by year and market. Always check the exact configuration of the vehicle you are considering, since not all Kizashi models use the same transmission.