It is no secret that Suzuki is working on a new long wheelbase version of the popular Jimny off-road SUV. The new Jimny LWB will come with 5 doors, and will be launched in multiple markets. The SUV was scheduled to make global debut in October 2021 at the Tokyo Motor Show. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the auto show has been cancelled.
The new Suzuki Jimny LWB global debut will now take place in the first half of 2022. The LWB version is scheduled to be launched in the Indian market by July 2022; however, launch could be further delayed due to COVID-19 pandemic. The new model will debut alongside the facelifted 3-door Jimny. For people not in the know, Maruti Suzuki is currently producing and exporting the Jimny off-roader to select international markets. It is expected that Maruti Suzuki will build the Jimny 5-door alongside the standard version.
The new 5-door Suzuki Jimny LWB will be based on the Sierra, and will ride on 300mm longer wheelbase. The length of the SUV will be increased by 300mm, and with increased wheelbase, the SUV will offer more space inside the cabin. Leaked documents reveal that the new Jimny LWB will measure 3,850mm in length, 1,645mm in width and 1,730mm in height. The SUV will have a wheelbase of 2,550mm, while the ground clearance stands at 210mm. It will have a kerb weight of 1190kg, which is 100kgs higher than the 3-door Sierra.
Suzuki is also considering adding a more powerful turbocharged petrol engine to 5-door Jimny. It is speculated to receive a 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which powers the international-spec Swift Sport. The engine could also receive a mild-hybrid system. In the current form, the 1.4L engine produces 127bhp and 235Nm of torque. The India-spec model is most likely to retain the 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine with mild hybrid system. This engine produces 100bhp of power and 130Nm of torque. Transmission options will include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic.
The 5-door Jimny will come with some design changes, which will be in-line with the 3-door Jimny facelift. It is likely to get a refreshed grille with a single horizontal slat replacing the current five slot vertical setup, and an elongated side profile. The 5-door Jimny will come with more modern features like an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, and new seats. The biggest change will be made in the second row, where it will have forward facing seats.
