Ever since the first Jimny made its global debut in April 1970, it has been a masterpiece of Suzuki's 4WD technology. It is the one and only authentic off-roader that is small and lightweight, but still retains its core off-road performance desired by professionals. Two decades have passed since the third-generation model made its debut in 1998 and the Jimny has now evolved to its fourth generation in almost 50 years of history.
Practical exterior
The beauty of simplicity and off-road functionality are both realised with its robust exterior. Its strong square body expresses its off-road ability and robustness as well as assisting with the driver's situational awareness. The more upright A-pillars and flat clamshell bonnet enhance visibility from the windscreen, while the dipped driver and passenger window lines provide good visibility from the side windows. The front grille is simple and black, highlighting the round signature headlamps, with 15-inch dark-metallic alloy wheels fitted on the SZ5 model accentuating the strong exterior even more.
Standard Equipment
The new Jimny offers a much higher level of equipment than the previous model and SZ4 offers selectable 4WD with low ratio transfer, Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS), Air Conditioning, CD Tuner, Bluetooth connectivity, Cruise Control and front foglamps. Moving up to SZ5 adds 15-inch alloy wheels, LED Headlights, Climate Control, Navigation with Smartphone link, rear privacy glass, heated front seats and body coloured door handles.
Other functions included as standard equipment for both grades include Lane Departure Warning* and weaving alert function* which help the driver stay alert, and high beam assist* supports relaxing and courteous night driving by automatically switching the high and low beams at speeds of 25mph and above.
*Each function operates at different vehicle speeds and under certain conditions.
1.5-litre engine
The former 1.3-litre engine is replaced by a 1.5-litre unit in the new Jimny. It delivers higher torque than its predecessor with ample torque available at low revolutions which enhances driving performance especially while driving off-road where a low engine speed is often needed. Despite the increased displacement, it has smaller overall dimensions than the engine it replaces, with 15 per cent reduced weight, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency.
Uncompromising performance
Authentic off-roaders must be tough enough to handle the harshest conditions. From its ladder frame structure to its new 1.5-litre engine, the new Jimny is built for rough-road adventures. But on-road ability was not compromised, with the higher torsional rigidity of the ladder frame providing a more comfortable ride on the road, and newly equipped steering damper on the front suspension minimising steering wheel vibration and kickback. Whether navigating the urban jungle or exploring off the beaten track, the Jimny is sure to satisfy adventurous minds.
Off-road capability
The Jimny incorporates the four essentials for serious off-roading - a ladder frame, three excellent clearance angles, 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil spring and part-time 4WD with low range transfer gear. Designed for professionals, it features ALLGRIP PRO*.
The new Jimny is one of the few authentic off-roaders equipped with a rigid axle for both front and rear. The front axle housing is now constructed of more robust high tensile steel and the rear axle housing is larger diameter with 30 per cent higher flexural strength for greater durability.
*ALLGRIP PRO is Suzuki's 4WD system designed for high off-road ability.
Jimny features a part-time 4WD system with low range transfer gear, which can be easily switched from 2H (2WD-high gear), 4H (4WD-high gear) and 4L (4WD-low gear) modes by a manually operated shift lever directly connected to the transfer gear. Compared to the 4H mode, the 4L mode can transfer more torque to the wheels when in lower gears offering better traction on steep slopes and rough terrain.
When two wheels diagonal from each other lose traction, the Jimny's new design brake LSD traction control automatically brakes the slipping wheels to redistribute torque to the other side and allow the vehicle to gain traction.