THE new Suzuki Jimny has only been on the market for a couple of months, but it has already been named the latest recipient of the global Good Design Awards and there is a growing waiting list for this hardy 4×4.
The all-new Suzuki Jimny was launched at the end of last year – 20 years after this fun 4×4 vehicle had last been updated.
The all-new Suzuki Jimny features a new, more powerful and frugal 1.5 litre engine. It is available in two specification levels (GA and GLX) and two transmissions – five-speed manual or four speed automatic.
Standard in all the models in the range is the ALLGRIP PRO mechanical shifting 4×2, 4×4 and 4×4 low range transfer case and the rigid ladder frame chassis for off-roading.
Exterior design
The retro-modern design of the all-new Suzuki Jimny has many elements that pay homage to its predecessors. Every detail is aimed at making the journey easier for those who like to drive and be in the outdoors in all weather conditions.
For instance, the upright design of the roof pillars enables the roof to carry more weight, which is ideal for a roof rack, rooftop tent and for rollover safety in an accident.
The Jimny also features an all-round drip rail, which has been designed to allow for easy clamping of roof racks, while also keeping passengers dry from water on the roof as they enter or exit the vehicle.
Its angled front and rear bumpers not only keep them out of the way of rocks and shrubs, but also increase the approach and departure angles.
Interior design
The retro-modern design is carried on into the interior with a funky looking dashboard housing the touchscreen – giving this rugged looking vehicle a high tech feel inside.
It has an easy to operate touch screen with steering-wheel controls for the audio system and other modern conveniences.
- red touch screen with Android Auto, Apple Carplay and MirrorLink integration. The system has a USB connector, SD-card slot and Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
In between the two front seats is the separate gear lever to select 4×2, or 4×4 high, or 4×4 low range.
All versions of the Jimny have air conditioning, power steering and the complete ALLGRIP PRO 4×4 system with brake LSD, ESP, hill hold control and hill descent control.
The GLX models’ additional features include climate control, electric windows and mirrors, Auto LED projector headlamps, remote central locking and cruise control.
The front seats have been redesigned to fold completely flat with the rear bench to allow someone to sleep inside the cabin. The flat-folding passenger seat and foldable rear bench allow for a completely flat loading surface for long equipment.
Engine
For the all-new Jimny, Suzuki’s engineers have replaced the 1.3 litre engine with a new 1.5 litre K15B petrol engine. It has a higher compression ratio (10.0:1) and greater thermal efficiency to deliver more power, while using less fuel. It is rated at 75kW at 6 000rpm and 130Nm at 4 000rpm.
Fuel consumption on a combined cycle has been stated as 6.3 litres for
the manual models and 6.8 litres for the automatic model.
Safety
All Jimny models are fitted with ABS brakes with emergency brake assistance (BAS) and Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) to prevent wheel slip on all wheels.
All Jimny models also have ISOFIX child seat anchors, a high mounted brake light and an emergency pedal release system.
Price and warranty
The GLX model is standard with a four-year/ 60 000km service plan and the GA model with a two-year/30 000km service plan. All models are sold with a five-year/200 000km mechanical warranty.
GA MT R264 900,
GLX MT R299 900
GLX Auto R319 900
