Suzuki draws up family star

	The bold styling is a statement of Suzuki’s intention to move upmarket

This is the face of Suzuki’s stunning new family car – the Kizashi. And judging by the official sketch, it looks set to be a winner.

Scheduled to be unveiled at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the large concept hints strongly at the company’s new Ford Mondeo rival, which is due in 2009. The production model is tipped to feature the prominent grille of the Kizashi, together with the distinctive LED headlights. The low roof won’t make production, but the BMW-style kink in the C-pillar should remain.

The name Kizashi means ‘prelude’ in Japanese, and the bold styling is a statement of Suzuki’s intention to move upmarket as part of its ‘third phase’ world strategy.

Although parent company GM has reduced its stake in Suzuki, it is expected to continue to assist with engine technology. This means a wide range of petrols and diesels, and possibly a hybrid, will be available.

At present, Suzuki’s only large family car is a rebadged version of the Chevrolet Lacetti, although this is not available in the UK.