After just a year on the market, the Suzuki Kizashi is getting a minor facelift.

The Kizashi has earned praise from a great many automotive journalists as a stylish, well-built sedan that falls in-between compact and a mid-size.

Now Suzuki, trying to boost sales for 2011, has designated its top two trim levels as Sport models, the GTS Sport and the SLS Sport.

In addition to some suspension tuning and other performance goodies, the Kizashi Sport gets a few visual upgrades such as 18-inch wheels, a new front fascia, new rocker panels and a new rear spoiler. The Sport is an example of how to build an affordable sedan with an upscale, sporting appearance.

Now we hope Suzuki can garner more sales for a very good car.

MotorwayAmerica.com photos by Jim Meachen