Suzuki’s fourth-generation Jimny will finally reach UK roads in January 2019, more than 20 years after its predecessor went on sale.
Compared to the previous model, this new Jimny is 30mm shorter in length, but 45mm wider and 20mm higher, creating a more spacious interior and an extra 53 litres of boot space – now 377 litres.
The iconic boxy look has been retained, meaning the pocket-sized 4×4 is unmistakably Jimny. It also retains its traditional ladder-frame chassis to make it the most effective off-road weapon possible.
Providing the power is a new 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 99bhp, which is smaller and 15 per cent lighter in weight, improving fuel efficiency compared to the 1.3-litre unit it replaces. This engine also delivers higher torque with ample pulling power available at low revs, enhancing driving performance especially while low-speed off-road driving.
Another key change is body frame torsional rigidity, which is now 1.5 times higher than before, while every new Jimny comes with the Allgrip Pro selectable four-wheel drive as standard equipment, again enhancing off-road performance.
Suzuki says this new model is the most technically advanced Jimny yet, boasting dual sensor brake support, hill descent control, lane departure warning, six airbags, and high beam assist all fitted as standard equipment.
However, all this safety tech couldn’t prevent a slating from Euro NCAP, with the safety assessment group awarding the new Jimny an embarrassing two out of five stars in its crash tests.
Equipment is split over two trims: SZ4 and SZ5. The SZ4 (£15,499) gets air conditioning, cruise control, dual sensor brake support, front fog lamps and a CD player with DAB radio and bluetooth.
The SZ5 grade (£17,999/£18,999 manual/automatic) steps things up with LED headlights, 15-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, climate control, sat nav with smartphone link and heated front seats as standard.
Since the first Jimny model launched in 1970, it has racked up sales exceeding 2.8 million worldwide.
But will you be buying the new Jimny? Let us know what you think of the latest model down in the comments.
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