Suzuki Jimny launched – Revival of a Legend
Launched in 1968, the humble and diminutive Suzuki Jimny mini 4×4 ranks among the most iconic off-roaders of all time. It has been absent from our market for sometime now, but the Jimny has finally returned to our shores in the form of its third-generation model, offered in its familiar 1.3-litre engine capacity.
Retaining the familiar look last seen in the classic Jimny SJ413, the latest one evolves the design in subtle increments despite being an all-new model mechanically. In a market populated by SUVs that increasingly abandon their off-road dwellings, the Jimny stays true to the rugged formula that made it a much-loved cult hero in the first place.
Built for unforgiving terrain, the Jimny is underpinned by a rigid three-section ladder frame and comes with front and rear solid axles. The suspension is a three-link set up with separate springs and shocks, which Suzuki claims to offer smoother response. Brakes follow a regular disc/drum set up pumped by an eight-inch servo with load-sensing proportioning valve to regulate brake force on the rear drums.
Powering the Jimny is the humble 1.3-litre M13A petrol engine pushing out 84hp @ 6,000rpm and 110Nm @ 4,500rpm. Offered with a choice of 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions, the Jimny runs a part-time shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system. Dubbed Drive Action 4×4 by Suzuki, the system is able to facilitate transitions between 2WD and 4WD modes at speeds of up to 100kph.
Utterly fuss-free like its predecessor, the modern day Jimny is nevertheless well-stocked for safety, with dual airbags, ABS, EBD, and Brake Assist being standard items. Other equipment include steering-mounted controls, 15″ alloy wheels, reverse sensors, and alarm. Seats are fabric.
“It is compact and lightweight, lending to its agility, and is hard-wired to take on a multitude of terrains. Durable and versatile with compact dimensions, excellent safety and genuine off-road capabilities have made the Jimny a cult classic. We believe the new Jimny will see a revival and attract many new customers to Suzuki,” said Mr. Keiichi Suzuki, Managing Director of Suzuki Malaysia Automobile Sdn Bhd.
Available in only one trim level, JLX, the Jimny is being offered at RM87,305.50 for manual transmission and RM92,435.50 for Automatic transmission (on-the-road price with insurance).
Pictures: Official Suzuki release.
