It seems like an eternity since those photos of the new Suzuki Jimny were released. It’s taken until now for the Japanese brand the officially release their on-location shots and a smattering of details too.
What we know
We’ve been told it’ll be built on a ladder frame chassis, similar to nearly every SUV on the market, it will feature a three-link rigid axle suspension system and also incorporate a part time four-wheel drive system. In a slightly obscure turn of events, they’ve ditched the 1.3 inline four previously used, in favour of a naturally aspirated 1.5 producing 101bhp! These aren’t dramatic figures, but the car will be light and you have to remember this isn’t a car intended for the Nürburgring…
Off roading
If you’re planning on purchasing one of these little Jimny’s, we sincerely hope you’ll take it off road! The four-wheel drive system has a low range transfer gear and brake-based traction control used to distribute torque on a slippery surface. The new five-speed gear box has been tweaked to suit the new engine better and the shift lever itself has been altered to cut down on vibrations.
Practicality
As it’s clear to see, the Jimny isn’t the biggest car on the market. 85 litres are all you have to play with in the boot; fold the rear seats down and you’re greeted by 377 litres. Not too dissimilar to a C-segment hatchback. The most appealing factor for this car is the price tag, coming in at just £15,000! To get a new car as well equipped and as practical as this for this price is exceptional. Despite its small engine a curb weight of just 1090KG means it should feel reasonably nippy around town and enable it to skip over ruts and rocks on your upward climb!
