In the dynamic world of automobiles, Maruti Suzuki has introduced the eagerly awaited Maruti Suzuki Jimny, a compact SUV that is set to revolutionize the Indian automotive market. With its rugged aesthetics, impressive off-road capabilities, and advanced features, the Jimny is poised to redefine the compact SUV segment in India. When comparing the Jimny to its rival, the Mahindra Thar, both vehicles shine in their own right. The Thar, with its iconic and robust design, offers remarkable off-road prowess and a genuine sense of adventure. It’s a vehicle deeply rooted in India’s off-road culture and heritage. With Jimny’s arrival, things are bound to get interesting.
The unveil
The fourth generation of Maruti Suzuki Jimny made its global debut in 2019 and became an instant hit. With the car finally rolling out, Indian consumers can finally experience its charm up close. Jimny’s arrival has generated a buzz among car enthusiasts, and it’s easy to see why. In India, a lengthier iteration of the Jimny was specifically engineered to create additional interior room for accommodating four adults comfortably. To enhance its market appeal, an extra pair of doors was incorporated into the design. This Indian variant is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, offering both manual and automatic transmission options, coupled with a 4x4 system. The vehicle comes with a decent set of features and is available for purchase at Maruti’s Nexa dealerships.
Rugged design
The Jimny boasts a timeless off-road look with its sturdy, boxy, and squared-off design, all neatly packaged into a compact frame. Its overall length, including the spare tire at the back, stretches to 3,985mm. Notably, this five-door variant differs from the international three-door model due to its extended wheelbase, adding 340mm for improved rear passenger comfort and the introduction of rear doors. Measuring a svelte 1,645mm in width, the Jimny is slimmer than your typical hatchback, and its modest height of 1,720mm ensures it doesn’t dominate the road. Its muscular stance, bold front grille, circular headlamps, and wide wheel arches give it an adventurous and robust appearance. It’s a head-turner on city streets and a conqueror of challenging terrains.
Oomph factor
Despite its compact size, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny delivers remarkable performance. Its powerful 1.5L K Series engine churns out 103 bhp and 134 Nm of torque, ample for both urban commutes and off-road adventures. The transmission offerings for the vehicle include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 4-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter. These transmissions transfer power to all four wheels through Suzuki’s advanced AllGrip Pro hardware, offering the flexibility to switch between different driving modes: ‘4WD-high’, ‘4WD-low’, and ‘2WD-high’.
It’s worth noting that the 5-speed manual transmission doesn’t exhibit the typical smoothness associated with Suzuki gearboxes. Engaging gears requires a firm and forceful hand, and even the clutch pedal feels notably heavier than expected.
What truly distinguishes the Jimny is its off-road prowess. With a 4x4 drivetrain and 210 mm ground clearance, it’s capable of tackling even the most demanding terrains. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails, muddy paths, or sand dunes, the Jimny is designed to conquer them all. It’s a dream come true for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Features
Inside Jimny’s cabin, you’ll find a perfect blend of comfort and modern technology. The touchscreen infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keeps you connected, while features like climate control ensure a pleasant driving experience. Additionally, advanced safety features like a limited-slip differential, six airbags, ABS with EBD, and ESP with hill hold assist provide peace of mind on every journey. The Jimny’s interior is designed to be both practical and comfortable, making it suitable for daily commutes and long road trips.
In the premium Alpha trim, you’ll find a range of impressive features. These include automatic LED headlights with headlamp cleaning, convenient keyless entry and ignition, and a spacious 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless connectivity for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The package also boasts cruise control, a climate control system for added comfort, tinted windows for privacy, a rear wiper and headlight washer for practicality, electrically foldable exterior mirrors, and a handy reversing camera for parking ease.
Running costs
The Jimny’s lightweight construction plays a pivotal role in its commendable fuel economy. In our test drive, we were able to manage a city mileage of 13 kilometres/litre while it easily went up to 16 kilometres/litre on the highway. With a relatively low curb weight, thanks to its compact dimensions and a body-on-frame design, the vehicle requires less energy to propel itself forward. This means the engine doesn’t have to work as hard, thereby conserving fuel.
Additionally, the lightweight chassis enhances the Jimny’s agility, making it easier to navigate through urban traffic without sacrificing efficiency. Its efficient engine and lightweight construction contribute to impressive fuel economy figures. Not only does this benefit your wallet, but it also aligns with eco-conscious choices for a greener planet.
Price & verdict
From ₹12.74 lakh - ₹15.05 lakh (ex-showroom), the Jimny feels overpriced. Whether you’re a city dweller seeking a stylish and practical ride or an adventure enthusiast craving off-road excitement, the Jimny caters to a wide range of needs. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that excels in both urban and off-road settings, while turning heads with its striking design, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny should be at the top of your list. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s an invitation to embark on unforgettable journeys, explore the unbeaten paths, and make a statement everywhere you go. Prepare to join the ranks of those who have embraced this exceptional addition to the Maruti Suzuki family and have experienced the joy of driving a true legend.
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