And it’s got pretty decent spec, considering.
Just a few short weeks after its international debut, Japanese carmaker Suzuki has finally answered the question that’s been on our lips since we clapped eyes on it: The all-new Jimny is coming to Australia.
“The Jimny is synonymous with the Suzuki brand and to have an all-new model on its way is something worth talking about. The Australian landscape will be a true test for the iconic 4WD and I have no doubt it will rise to the challenge. I am very excited and highly anticipating the return of this legendary compact SUV, to complement our already strong lineup of Suzuki vehicles in Australia.” — Michael Pachota, General Manager (Automobiles), Suzuki Australia
The little Jimny might have a reputation for fuss- and frills-free overlanding, but the new car promises to be bang up to date and comparable to typical modern cars. As such, you’ll find things like a touchscreen infotainment system, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as built-in satellite navigation.
Additionally, you’ll find kit like LED daytime running lights, high-beam assist for the headlights, hill-hold assist & hill descent control on the new Jimny too, all as standard. Safety’s been well catered for too with dual front, side, and curtain airbags (that counts for 6), electronic stability control, and ‘Dual Sensor Brake Support’ (we’re not entirely sure what that is though).
Motivation for the Jimny will come from a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which unfortunately is entirely atmospheric. Adding insult to injury is the potential gearbox options: Confirmed European specifications have revealed only 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic options, which is well off the pace of modern passenger cars. We were hoping for a turbo mill and a 6-speed gearbox (auto or manual, frankly); The upshot of this is at least the drivetrain will be robust enough to take more than its fair-share of knocks.
At least it gets Suzuki’s AllGrip PRO 4WD system, replete with a reduction gear.
“The Jimny has been loved by customers around the world for nearly 50-years since its launch in 1970. It became an indispensable part of customers work, life, and outdoor activities with its excellent off-road performance and high manoeuvrability. 20 long years have passed since the last model change in 1998, making it the third full model change in Jimny’s history.” — Hiroyuki Yonezawa, Chief Engineer (Jimny Project), Suzuki Motor Corporation
The all-new third-generation Suzuki Jimny is expected to arrive on our shores at the end of this year, with sales expected to begin in the first-quarter of 2019.
For more information on Suzuki, check out our Showroom.
