Suzuki Jimny: Small but Mighty 4×4 SUV NZ Review
I’ve been excited to share my thoughts on the Suzuki Jimny. This compact SUV has been making waves in New Zealand. As a car lover, I couldn’t wait to drive it.
The Suzuki SUV shows that size doesn’t matter. Its boxy design and off-road skills make it stand out. It’s powered by a 1.5L engine, making 75kW and 130Nm of torque.
Driving the Jimny, I was impressed by its fuel efficiency. It got 13.9 km/L, or about 7.2L/100km. This is great for a car that handles both city and rough terrain well. The 5-speed manual transmission makes driving fun, with options for different terrains.
In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Suzuki Jimny special. From its history to its performance, I’ll share all you need to know. So, let’s dive into the world of the Suzuki Jimny together.
Heritage and Evolution of the Jimny Legacy
The Suzuki Jimny’s story started in 1970. This small 4×4 has made a big impact on cars. It even came before the famous Mercedes G-Class by almost a decade.
I’ve seen the Jimny grow from a simple off-roader to a worldwide favorite.
From 1970 to Present Day
The Jimny first had a 360cc engine and weighed just 600 kg. Over the years, it got bigger and better. The SJ410 in 1981 had a 1000cc engine, and the SJ413 had a 1.3-liter engine.
Now, the Jimny has a strong 1.5L engine. It gives lots of torque over a wide RPM range.
The Iconic Design Philosophy
Suzuki kept the Jimny’s boxy look while making it look modern. The 2018 model honors its past. It’s amazing how the Jimny looks like luxury off-roaders but stays true to itself.
Global Impact and Recognition
The Jimny has influenced more than just its own family. The Samurai and Vitara show its DNA. The Vitara added coil springs for a smoother ride.
The SX4 brought electronic 4WD control. The latest allgrip system offers different driving modes. These updates have made the Jimny a respected off-roader.
| Year | Model | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| 1970 | First Jimny | 360cc twin-cylinder engine |
| 1981 | SJ410 | 1000cc four-cylinder engine |
| 1996 | Vitara | Turbo-diesel engine introduction |
| 2018 | Current Jimny | 1.5L engine with enhanced torque |
Exterior Design and Styling Analysis
The Suzuki Jimny’s design is a perfect mix of old-school charm and modern toughness. Its boxy shape nods to classic off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler but has a unique Suzuki flair. Despite its small size, it looks big and bold, standing out in cities and countryside.
Suzuki’s designers aimed to make a car that grabs attention. The round headlights add a playful touch, matching well with the big wheel arches. This mix gives the Jimny a fun yet rugged look, ideal for an off-road vehicle with a playful vibe.
In the eye-catching Sizzling Red color, the Jimny turns heads everywhere. This vibrant color highlights the car’s smooth lines and tough off-road features, pleasing both fans and passersby. The color is part of a six-color palette for the SZ5 trim, letting buyers customize their Jimny.
The Jimny’s design isn’t just about looks; it’s also about capability. With 210mm ground clearance and great approach and departure angles (37° and 49° for the three-door model), it shows Suzuki’s dedication to making a true off-road vehicle that’s both stylish and strong.
Performance and Powertrain Specifications
The Suzuki Jimny has a powerful engine for its size. It reminds us of classic 4x4s like the chevy tracker and geo tracker, but with today’s tech.
1.5L Engine Capabilities
The Jimny’s engine is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder. It makes 75 kW at 6,000 rpm and 130 Nm at 4,000 rpm. This engine gives smooth speed for city streets and off-road fun.
Transmission Options and Performance
There are two transmission choices: a 5-speed manual or a 4-stage automatic. The manual feels like driving an older off-roader, like the geo tracker. The Jimny’s specs are impressive:
- Gross vehicle weight: 1435 kg (3-door) / 1545 kg (5-door)
- Towing capacity (braked): 1300 kg
- Ground clearance: 210 mm
Fuel Efficiency Ratings
The Jimny is great on fuel, even for a 4×4. Fuel use changes a bit between models:
| Model | Transmission | Fuel Consumption | CO2 Emissions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jimny / Jimny Lite | Manual | 6.4 L / 100 km | 146 g/km |
| Jimny XL | Automatic | 6.9 L / 100 km | 148 g/km |
These numbers show the Jimny is a smart pick for daily driving and weekend trips. It’s as efficient as its predecessors, like the chevy tracker.
Off-Road Capabilities and Features
The Suzuki Jimny is a powerful off-road vehicle, despite its small size. It has impressive features that make it stand out among 4x4s. It comes with a 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low selector for different terrains.
Its lightweight design is a big plus. Weighing just 1185kg, it easily handles tough obstacles. The Jimny’s short wheelbase and great angles (37 and 49 degrees) help it climb steep hills and rough terrain.
The Jimny’s strong ladder frame and three-link suspension give it great traction. It may not have all the fancy tech of bigger SUVs. But its simplicity is what makes it so effective off-road.
In tests, the Jimny showed it can be very fuel-efficient, averaging 7.5 L/100 km. Its 40L fuel tank is perfect for off-road trips. For longer journeys, you can get an 80L long-range fuel tank.
- Approach angle: 37 degrees
- Departure angle: 49 degrees
- Breakover angle: 28 degrees
- Ground clearance: 211mm
The Jimny’s small size lets it fit into tight spots where big vehicles can’t. Its 1.5-liter engine has enough power for most off-road tasks.
Suzuki Jimny Interior Comfort and Technology
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact SUV that combines functionality with modern tech. Its interior design focuses on being practical, fitting its rugged nature.
Cabin Layout and Materials
The Jimny’s interior is simple and straightforward. The seats are soft, covered in durable fabric. The rest of the cabin is made of hard plastics with a rubberized feel. This makes it easy to clean after off-road trips.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Jimny’s tech has been greatly improved. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the centerpiece. It has clear graphics and easy controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay is available for easy smartphone connection. Bluetooth supports hands-free calls and music.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Infotainment Screen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Smartphone Integration | Wireless Apple CarPlay |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB |
| Audio System | Display audio with voice activation |
Storage Solutions and Practicality
The Suzuki Jimny uses its space wisely. It has many small storage spots throughout. With the rear seats up, space is limited. But, folding them down opens up a useful area, showing the Jimny’s practical side.
The Jimny’s interior may not be luxurious, but it’s functional and ready for adventure. It shows Suzuki’s dedication to making a practical, no-nonsense compact SUV.
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact off-road vehicle known for its safety. It has a mix of active and passive safety features. These are designed to keep occupants safe in different driving situations.
The Jimny has Electronic Stability Control to help keep the vehicle stable. It also has Driver Attention Detection to warn you if you’re getting tired. Plus, it has Vulnerable Road User Auto Emergency Braking to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
The Jimny also has front airbags for the driver and passenger, and side curtain airbags for everyone. It has Auto Emergency Braking for city driving, making it safer in urban areas.
Even though it doesn’t have Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Warning, the Jimny makes up for it. It has a strong HEARTECT platform. This platform uses special steel to spread out the force of impacts during crashes.
Suzuki offers a 5-year Real Value Warranty package with the Jimny. This includes mechanical breakdown coverage and roadside assistance. Suzuki’s long-term support shows their confidence in the Jimny’s safety and durability.
| Safety Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes |
| Driver Attention Detection | Yes |
| Auto Emergency Braking – City | Yes |
| Side Curtain Airbags | Yes |
| Lane Keep Assist | No |
Three-Door vs Five-Door Comparison
The Suzuki Jimny is now available in both three-door and five-door versions. This change gives Kiwi drivers more options for an off-road vehicle. Let’s explore the main differences between these two models.
Space and Practicality Differences
The five-door Jimny is 340mm longer than the three-door, making it 3,820mm long. This extra length increases the interior space. The five-door has 211 liters of luggage space when the rear seats are up, which is twice as much as the three-door’s 85 liters.
When you fold the rear seats, the five-door offers 332 liters of cargo room. This is a lot more than the three-door’s 85 liters.
Performance Variations
Both Jimny versions have the same 1.5-liter engine. They produce 75kW of power and 130Nm of torque. The five-door is 105kg heavier, which slightly affects its performance.
Despite the weight difference, the five-door Jimny is just as good off-road. It has a 36-degree approach angle. But, its rampover angle is 24 degrees, down from the three-door’s 28 degrees.
| Feature | Three-Door Jimny | Five-Door Jimny |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 2,250 mm | 2,590 mm |
| Luggage Space (seats up) | 85 liters | 211 liters |
| Curb Weight | 1,095 kg | 1,200 kg |
| Rampover Angle | 28 degrees | 24 degrees |
Price Point Comparison
The five-door Jimny costs $5,000 more than the three-door. In New Zealand, the five-door manual starts at $40,990. The automatic version is $44,990. This price difference reflects the extra space and practicality of the five-door model.
Choosing between the three-door and five-door Suzuki Jimny depends on your needs. The three-door is great for tight off-road spots. The five-door offers more space and everyday practicality. Both models keep the Jimny’s iconic design and capability, ensuring its legacy in New Zealand.
Real-World Performance Testing
I tested the Suzuki Jimny in different real-world situations to see how it performs. On the highway, it’s clear it’s not built for long trips. At 100km/h, the engine hums at 3100rpm in fifth gear. You can hear the wind and road noise because of its boxy shape.
The Jimny’s high center of gravity and short wheelbase make it wobble at high speeds. This reminds me of other off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler.
But off-road, the Jimny is a star. I took it on tough trails with steep hills and loose ground. Its light weight, great approach angles, and low-range gearing let it conquer obstacles that bigger vehicles can’t.
In the city, the Jimny’s small size and tight turns make it great for navigating tight spaces. But, the firm suspension means you’ll feel every bump.
I tracked its mileage from 0 to 6121 km in several tests. The Jimny’s off-road skills are amazing, given its affordable price. It may not be the best on the highway, but it excels off-road and in the city. This makes it a unique and capable compact SUV.
FAQ
What is the fuel efficiency of the Suzuki Jimny?
The Suzuki Jimny gets about 7.2L/100km, matching Suzuki’s claims. This is great for a 4×4, perfect for city driving and weekend trips.
How does the Suzuki Jimny perform off-road?
The Jimny is great off-road, despite its small size. It has a simple 4×4 system for different terrains. Its light weight and short wheelbase help it tackle tough spots.
What are the main differences between the three-door and five-door Jimny?
The five-door Jimny has a longer wheelbase for more space and easier access. It also has more room in the back. But, the three-door is better off-road because of its shorter wheelbase.
How does the Jimny perform on highways?
The Jimny isn’t the best for long drives on highways. It takes time to hit 100km/h and gets noisy at speed. Its design also makes it hard to steer straight.
What safety features does the Suzuki Jimny offer?
The Jimny has stability control, traction control, and rear sensors. It also has airbags and a rigid frame for safety. But, its size and high center of gravity require caution.
How does the Jimny’s interior compare to other SUVs?
The Jimny’s interior is practical, not fancy. It has durable materials and clever storage. It also has a big touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay, fitting its adventurous vibe.
What is the Jimny’s engine capacity and power output?
The Jimny has a 1.5L engine that makes 75kW and 130Nm. These specs are good for its size and off-road needs.
How does the Jimny compare to other compact SUVs like the Vitara or Chevy Tracker?
The Jimny is unique among compact SUVs for its off-road skills and design. While others may be more comfortable on roads, the Jimny is a standout off-road and has a special appeal.
