Maruti Suzuki Jimny

Quick review

Boxy, slab-sided and squared out

Classic off-roader proportions, compact footprint
Cutesy and cheerful styling, not imposing like Thar
Round headlamps, 5-slot grille are classic Jimny details

Cube-like cabin

Faux bolts, dashboard grab handle add rugged appeal
Quality of plastics isn’t great, but not a deal breaker
Twin-pod instrument cluster with orange highlights looks cool

Adequate for 4 only

Seat comfort is good, but has limited adjustability
Narrow cabin allows for limited shoulder room
In-cabin storage is limited, boot is decently sized
Has great all-around visibility

Top-spec Alpha is well-loaded

9-inch touchscreen is slick and responsive to use
Off-road specific features such as inclinometer, tiltmeter, compass, 360-deg camera are missed

Old at heart

Uses older K15B engine instead of newer K15C
1.5 NA petrol produces 105hp, 134Nm
Is responsive at low rpms, refined in city limits
Top-end performance is poor, build-of-speed is gradual

Rides well for an off-roader

5MT gearbox is clunky, clutch is heavy
4AT is smoother and more convenient
AT gets gearbox gets 'L' and '2' modes for maximum pulling power in off-road situations

Rides well for an off-roader

Suspension feels comfortable, planted
Underpinnings feel robust and solid
Highway manners are good, body roll is acceptable
Steering is slow & heavy, braking is good

Offroad hardware

Ladder-frame chassis, Suzuki AllGrip Pro AWD system
2WD-high, 4WD-high and 4WD-low modes
Solid front and rear axles, electronic braking differential


It is a mountain goat

Off-road is Jimny’s natural habitat
Compact dimensions, lightweight makes it nimble
Can tread over any onbstacle without batting an eyelid
Has enough electronics to assist you

Verdict

What we like:
Exceptional off-road ability
Oozing with character
Compact size

What we don’t like
Weak engine
Space isn’t generous
Not an ideal urban car  

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