Micro machine
The Suzuki Jimny that can tackle anything, including the recession
The Jimny is a whole-lot-of-car, especially considering how small both the engine and the actual dimensions are. It’s nimble in town, and even better off-road. If you need a more affordable run-around with some personality, look no further than the Jimny.
Tech spec
Engine: 1328cc (4 cylinders, fuel-injected)
Power: 14.1 seconds
Cost: R179 900
Fuel: 7.2/100km
Info: www.suzuki.co.za
The ride
The Suzuki Samurai (SJ410) was the original compact four-by-four, a scrappy little fighter that grew a huge fan base around the world. The new incarnation of the Samurai spirit is a punchy 1.3-litre Jimny with even better off-road ability and a better-specced interior. The engine has VVT (variable valve timing) and produces 63 kW at 6 000 r/min and peak torque peak of 110 N.m at 4 100 r/min. With the VVT and the fact that the Jimny only weighs 1 070 kg, the Jimny has a relatively good power-to-weight ratio of 58,8 kW/ton. Combine that with the its dimensions (3 645mm in length, 1 600mm in width and 1 705mm in height), and you get end up with silky maneuverability and urban mobility.
When it comes to the driving, the suspension is very stiff due to rigid axles and long-travel shock absorbers. You will feel every stone and bump out on the road. Off-road, it’s not as noticeable, but there’s serious amounts of body roll due to the shape of the car. It has a five-speed manual gearbox and push-button four-wheel drive (with low-range) capability. The Jimny also has power steering and ABS-equipped front brake disks. Best of all, Suzuki claims the Jimny has a 9,8-metre turning circle - meaning you can literally drive rings around the competition, especially when parking.
Where the Jimny really shines is off-road. With a decent 190 mm-ground clearance, 37 degree approach angle and departure angle of 46 degrees, this little machine was built for overcoming obstacles. The tiny proportions of the Jimny was a huge advantage on the rough stuff, as it meant less turning and reversing was needed. In terms of safety, front SRS airbags, side impact protection beams and progressive front and rear crumple zones are fitted.
The finishes
The Jimny predecessor, the Samurai, had a very average interior, relying on plastic fuss to make up for some bad design choices. The Jimny makes up for the sins of the father by providing a funky, retro exterior, and a well-appointed interior. On the outside, the large front bumper holds fog lamps and makes for a dominant first impression. It may look boxy from the front, but once you give it a proper look-over, you realize that the car has refined looks and sensible design. Combine the large bumper and the signature five-slot grille with the extended wheel arches, it tells you that the Jimny is not only for shopping trips, but that it can handle it’s own out in the wild. The rear spare-wheel on the tailgate and the roof rails all contribute to a sporty image - and provide some great practicality.
When it comes to the interior, the Jimny is basic but well-thought out. It has a new dashboard and much-improved steering wheel as well as a reclining rear bench seat that can be folded flat to increase the luggage compartment’s capacity (which is understandably tiny). It comes standard with electric windows, central locking, electrically-adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, two front and two rear cupholders (like any other self-respecting SUV) and height adjustment for the driver’s seat.
Will I want one?
If you need an off-road car with some practicality, you can’t fault the Jimny. Incredibly affordable, and fun to drive, this car outshines SUVs that are much bigger and much pricier.
We love... The off-road ability. The price.
We hate... The sometimes painfully stiff on-road drive.
Hot on wheels rating… 9 / 10
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