Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door review:2024 brand new off road Car

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door review:2024 brand new off road Car

What is the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and why is it generating such excitement? Well, it’s a standout in Maruti’s lineup, not your typical hatchback or SUV. This robust 4×4 SUV is tailored for off-road adventures, boasting a body-on-frame architecture. Its compact three-door variant has won hearts worldwide for its bold design and impressive off-road capabilities.

This global admiration, combined with the Mahindra Thar’s local triumph, has encouraged Maruti, a major automaker, to bring this specialized off-roader to Indian buyers.

Acknowledging the need for rear doors and more interior room for Indian preferences, Maruti has lengthened the Jimny’s wheelbase to comfortably accommodate four adults. Additional doors enhance accessibility. Under the hood, it packs a 1.5-liter petrol engine available with manual and automatic transmissions, alongside robust 4×4 technology. With essential features onboard, the Jimny will be offered through Maruti’s Nexa dealerships.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door exterior design

The Jimny sports a classic off-roader look with its boxy, slab-sided design, all squeezed into a small footprint. This five-door version, measuring 3,985mm in length (including the rear-mounted spare tire), outdoes its three-door counterpart sold abroad thanks to a 340mm longer wheelbase, aimed at improving rear passenger space and adding rear doors. Despite its compact dimensions, at 1,645mm wide and 1,720mm tall, the Jimny commands attention without being overly imposing.

Its delightful and cheerful styling is bound to bring a smile to your face. While it may lack the intimidating presence of the Mahindra Thar or Force Gurkha, its distinctive cube-like design ensures it stands out. Various design elements link the Jimny to its predecessors, such as the clamshell bonnet and streaks near the A-pillar reminiscent of the Gypsy. Classic Jimny features like the 5-slot grille outlined in chrome and round headlamps add to its charm. The top-spec Alpha variant includes LED headlamps and headlamp washers, particularly handy in dusty or muddy conditions.

In profile, the Jimny maintains a well-proportioned appearance, with square windows and a nicely executed vertical C-pillar glass. The Zeta trim comes with 15-inch steel wheels, while the top-spec model gets alloys, helping to trim 5 kilograms from the curb weight. At the back, the spare tire takes center stage, with lights positioned low on the unpainted bumper.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door interior, features

Entering its box-like cabin with upright walls is undeniably a unique experience. Similar to its exterior, the interior of the Jimny incorporates various design elements, like exposed faux bolts, a fixed grab handle on the passenger side, and a twin pod-like instrument cluster with orange backlighting, reminiscent of earlier Jimny generations. While the overall design exudes cheerfulness, the plastic quality in some areas may leave something to be desired, although it’s not a major drawback for the Jimny.

Driver adjustment options are limited, with no reach adjustment for the steering wheel and no ability to raise or lower the seat. However, thanks to the dashboard’s forward positioning and the expansive glass area, visibility from the driver’s seat is excellent. Seat comfort is satisfactory, and while the cabin feels narrow, there’s just enough space for two adults to sit comfortably without rubbing elbows.

Some may find the rear door aperture small, and the door sill high. Although the rear seat can accommodate two average-sized adults, taller occupants may feel cramped, especially when the backrest is reclined. Additionally, the absence of load sensors in the rear seat triggers an annoying rear seat-belt alarm for 90 seconds, regardless of occupancy, leading many owners to keep the seat belts buckled at all times.

Storage options are limited, with a small glove box, only two cupholders for the entire cabin, and door bins that can’t hold more than a couple of magazines. However, there’s a convenient slot for stowing smartphones in front of the gear lever, and the front seatback pockets are useful for storing small items. With the rear seats up, there’s enough space for a couple of medium-sized suitcases, and folding down the backseat in a 50:50 ratio provides additional cargo room.

The top-spec Alpha variant comes equipped with features like auto LED headlamps with headlamp washers, keyless entry and start, a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, climate control, tinted windows, rear wiper and washer, electric foldable outside mirrors, and a reversing camera. While off-road specific gauges like an inclinometer, tiltmeter, compass, and a 360-degree camera would have been appreciated.

Safety features include ESP, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, hill-descent control, six airbags, brake limited slip differential, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door engine, performance

The Jimny is equipped with Maruti’s older K15B four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 105hp and 134Nm of torque, and featuring an automatic engine stop-start function. This engine was previously utilized in various Maruti models from 2019 to 2022, including the Ertiga, XL6, Vitara Brezza, S-Cross, Ciaz, and Toyota’s Urban Cruiser. However, to comply with stricter emissions standards, Maruti introduced the more fuel-efficient and cleaner K15C Dualjet petrol unit. Although transitioning front-wheel-drive vehicles to this newer engine was straightforward, adapting it to the Jimny proved challenging. Suzuki (global) opted not to re-engineer it for the Jimny, as the benefits were considered insufficient compared to the outgoing motor.

Maruti believes the K15B’s robust low-end torque better suits the Jimny’s off-road capabilities compared to the fuel-efficient focus of the K15C. It feels responsive in urban settings and provides adequate torque for its 1,200kg kerb weight, similar to the Brezza petrol automatic. However, drivers may perceive acceleration as gradual, and reaching the redline as sluggish, accompanied by noticeable engine strain.

Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic (torque converter), both driving all four wheels through Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro hardware. The manual gearbox feels clunky, requiring firm shifts, while the automatic transmission offers smoother operation and convenience, with options for manual gear selection and enhanced pulling power in L mode.

Fuel efficiency may be lower than expected, especially in city driving conditions, due to the Jimny’s heavier weight and greater mechanical losses compared to the Ertiga.

Ride quality surprises with its planted feel and reduced bumpiness compared to competitors like the Thar. The suspension, typical of body-on-frame vehicles, offers decent comfort. With a ground clearance of 210mm, the Jimny encourages off-road exploration, maintaining stability at highway speeds with minimal body roll.

The electric power steering, with its slow-geared response, is well-suited for off-roading but requires more input on the road. Braking performance is reliable, with minimal nose-dive even during hard braking, thanks to the front brake setup borrowed from the Vitara Brezza.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door off-road ability

The Jimny boasts impressive specifications, with a 36-degree approach and 47-degree departure angles similar to the three-door variant. However, the longer wheelbase of the five-door version slightly reduces its ramp breakover angle to 24 degrees, 4 degrees less than the three-door model. These features, along with its ladder-frame chassis, solid front and rear axles, and Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro hardware (a 4-wheel drive system with a low-range gear), as well as electronic aids like hill-start assist, hill-descent control, ESP, and electronic braking differential (front and rear), give the Jimny outstanding off-road capabilities reminiscent of a mountain goat.

The Jimny excels in its natural off-road habitat. Despite riding on standard highway tires, it effortlessly overcame obstacles during an off-road session in Maldevta, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, organized by Maruti’s off-road team. Scaling rock-covered steep inclines, fording through water, navigating extreme angles, and extricating itself from sticky situations, the Jimny displayed remarkable prowess without hesitation.

Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate its slow-geared electronic power steering, which, thanks to additional steering dampers, minimizes aggressive kickback experienced in many other off-roaders. With its tight 5.7m turning radius, narrow front and rear track, and lightweight construction ranging from 1,195 to 1,210kg, the Jimny demonstrates exceptional agility in navigating tight and challenging terrains.

Conclusion:

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny represents a unique offering in the automotive market, catering to enthusiasts seeking adventure and off-road capabilities. With its rugged design, robust construction, and impressive 4×4 hardware, the Jimny demonstrates exceptional prowess in traversing challenging terrains. While it may not excel as an urban commuter due to its limited interior space and higher price range, it shines brightly as a dedicated off-roader.

The Jimny’s distinctive aesthetics, compact size, and inclusion of rear doors for easy access contribute to its appeal among consumers looking for a vehicle that stands out from the crowd. Despite facing competition from mainstream SUVs, the Jimny’s focus on fulfilling its intended purpose with top-notch performance off-road sets it apart in its segment.

Overall, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny earns recognition as a capable and reliable companion for adventure seekers, promising unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors. Whether scaling rocky inclines, fording through water, or navigating tight trails, the Jimny proves itself as a worthy companion ready to tackle any off-road challenge with confidence and style.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5-door price, verdict

If you’re drawn to the charm of this SUV, with its unique aesthetics and undeniable appeal, it’s important to note that the Jimny may not be the ideal choice for city driving. Compared to modern monocoque SUVs, it falls short in engine performance, requires more effort to handle the steering and manual gearbox, and offers limited interior space. Additionally, with prices ranging from Rs 12.74 lakh to Rs 15.05 lakh (ex-showroom), its value proposition might not be convincing.

However, as a dedicated off-roader, Jimny excels. Its 4×4 capabilities, lightweight build, and narrow track give it exceptional agility. Many will be attracted to its bold design, while the compact size and rear doors for easy access will also be appealing features.

In terms of fulfilling its intended purpose, the Jimny receives top marks. Once you’ve experienced its performance in its natural terrain, it’s likely to make a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Maruti Suzuki Jimny:

1. What makes the Maruti Suzuki Jimny stand out?

– The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is distinct from other vehicles in Maruti’s lineup due to its robust 4×4 capabilities, rugged design, and compact footprint. It is specifically built for off-roading adventures.

2. What are the key features of the Jimny?

– The Jimny features a body-on-frame construction, solid front and rear axles, and Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro hardware, which includes a 4-wheel drive system with a low-range gear. It also comes equipped with electronic aids like hill-start assist, hill-descent control, ESP, and electronic braking differential.

3. How does the Jimny perform off-road?

– The Jimny excels off-road, demonstrating exceptional capability in traversing challenging terrains. Its lightweight construction, narrow track, and impressive approach and departure angles make it highly adept at handling various obstacles.

4. Is the Jimny suitable for urban driving?

– While the Jimny offers undeniable charm and unique aesthetics, it may not be the ideal choice for urban driving. Its engine performance may feel lacking compared to modern SUVs, and its manual gearbox and steering may require more effort. Additionally, its limited interior space and higher price range may not be compelling for city dwellers.

5. What are some standout features of the Jimny’s design?

– The Jimny’s bold and distinctive design, coupled with its compact size and inclusion of rear doors for easy access, make it an appealing choice for many consumers. Its cube-like cabin with upright walls adds to its unique character.

6. How does the Jimny compare to other vehicles in its segment?

– The Jimny stands out for its dedicated off-road capabilities and rugged design, distinguishing itself from mainstream SUVs. While it may not match the performance and comfort of urban-focused SUVs, its prowess off-road makes it a compelling choice for adventure enthusiasts.

7. What is the price range of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny?

– The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is priced between Rs 12.74 lakh to Rs 15.05 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and features.