The Suzuki Jimny is one of the most beloved marques in the world of 4x4s. While it may not have the global recall value of brands such as the Jeep Wrangler or the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Jimny still holds a special place in the hearts of off-roading enthusiasts all over the globe, especially those that want a value-for-money SUV with true-blue off-road credibility. So, what makes the Suzuki Jimny such a popular vehicle?
Design that transcends generations
Ever since the first Jimny appeared in the 1970s, it boasted a boxy, no-nonsense design – a feature that is still present on the latest, fourth-generation model. While there are plentiful crossovers/SUVs in the market that have a more aerodynamic and urbane exterior styling, the Jimny proudly retains its simplistic silhouette. This has earned it praises from all sections of the crowd, regardless of someone’s age or bank balance.
A mini G-Wagon from Japan
While Suzuki and Mercedes-Benz are brands that don’t share the same space, their respective SUV candidates Jimny and G-Wagon – look almost like siblings. Of course, here we are mostly talking about the styling of these two cars. Both are boxy and based on traditional body-on-frame construction, with the new Jimny also featuring circular headlights, a flat-ish windscreen, square windows, flared fenders, exposed rain gutters, rectangular taillights, and a side-mounted rear door with an attached spare wheel.
Of course, the Suzuki Jimny also gets a proper four-wheel-drive (4WD) system along with a low-speed transfer case. Other similarities between the Jimny and the G-Class include short overhangs, high ground clearance, and a solid rear axle. That said, the Jimny soldiers on with a solid front axle as well, something the more expensive Mercedes has done away with.
A proven off-roader
All generations of the Suzuki Jimny have been famous for their admirable performance once paved tarmac ends. Oftentimes compared to the incredibly agile and rugged mountain goats that traverse some of the most treacherous terrains on the planet, the Jimny’s ability to cross almost any patch of terrafirma without being bogged down has been one of its strongest suits.
Backing up its capable chassis and impressive body angles over terrain, the new Jimny also gets nannies such as Hill Hold Control, Hill Descent Control, and an intelligent Traction Control that automatically applies brakes on the slipping wheel for improved traction. Combine these with the Jimny’s lightweight and compact body, what you get is a 4x4 that will go almost everywhere a G-Wagon can go – that’s quite the feat!
The Suzuki Jimny is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine. The four-cylinder engine remains fairly inaudible at low to medium speeds whilst also being smooth and reasonably tractable. The K15B unit develops around 102 hp and 130 Nm of torque, driving all four wheels (in 4WD mode) via either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed torque-converter automatic. While none of these specs make for a rapid mode of transport, they provide reliable progress through almost any type of terrain.
Not too expensive to buy or own
The Suzuki Jimny’s price in the UAE starts from around AED 73,000 for the entry-level GL variant with the manual gearbox, making it quite a bit more affordable than most other purpose-built off-roaders in the country. Moreover, owing to the relatively small size of its engine, the Jimny is far from a fuel guzzler. Driven calmly with a light right foot, the new Suzuki Jimny can return up to 6.8 L/100 km or 14.7 km/l.
Conclusion
While it’s far from the largest, most powerful, or the most advanced SUV in the world, the Suzuki Jimny is one of the most capable off-roaders money can buy. Also, the new model has just enough modern technology & comfort features to make it useable day-to-day. If you actually love 4x4s and don’t mind the petite optics, the Suzuki Jimny is still a solid choice!
