Suzuki Jimny’s story began in 1970 and with its rugged styling, unmatched off-road capabilities and adventurous spirit it has inspired generations worldwide. After decades of evolution, the off-roader is now ready to hit Indian shores in its 5-door avatar. Let’s take a look at some of interesting facts about the Suzuki Jimny SUV.
Legacy of 50 Years
The Suzuki Jimny is the descendant of cars called the Light Jeep 10 (LJ10), powered by 359cc, two-stroke, air-cooled inline twin engine. It was initially produced under HMC (Hope Motor Company), which was taken over by Suzuki in 1960. The first-generation Jimny (LJ80) was introduced with an 800cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder inline engine in 1970. For people not in the know, the Maruti Gypsy initially derived some of its design bits from the Suzuki Jimny besides sharing the wheelbase. However, the resemblance faded away with the generation changes.
Kei Class Car
The carmaker makes a Kei car version of the Jimny for the Japanese market. Just so you know, Kei cars are popular for their compact size and affordable pricing. The Jimny JB64 is the Kei’s version of the off-road SUV featuring smaller wheels and missing out on the pronounced bumpers and fender flares.
Unique Colours
The Suzuki Jimny is being offered in unique choices of colours such as Kinetic Yellow and Jungle Green. While the former withstands in extreme weather conditions, the latter helps it to merge in the surroundings.
Off-road Capabilities
The Suzuki Jimny is a serious off-road machine with robust ladder frame, 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil spring, ample approach, breakover and departure angles, and 4WD with a low-range transfer gear. The SUV’s fourth-generation model with 660cc twin turbo engine (available only in Japan) is powerful enough to compete against the likes of Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
What’s special about the 5-Door Maruti Jimny?
India is the 1st market
As mentioned above, the Jimny off-road SUV is now ready to go on sale on coming 7th June in India. It’s the 5-door version that will target a wider customer base. Interestingly, India will be the first market to receive the 5-door Maruti Jimny. It will also be sold in Latin America, South Africa and select Middle Eastern markets.
No 2WD Base Variant
Unlike its rival Mahindra Thar that was initially offered with the more affordable 2WD variant, the 5-door Maruti Jimny will maintain its 4X4 legacy. The carmaker will not bring in its lower-priced 2WD variant.
Old K15B petrol engine
Maruti Suzuki’s new Jimny SUV comes with the older K15B petrol engine, which is quite economical for the carmaker due to its high levels of localisation. The naturally aspirated K15B gasoline motor pushes out a peak power of 105bhp and 134.2Nm of torque. Transmission options includes a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic.
