Suzuki Jimny (2014-2021)

The first time I drove the Suzuki Jimny was during a short desert picnic, and it left me smiling. Its size may look tiny compared to typical SUVs, but trust me, that 1.5L engine with strong 4x4 grip feels confident off-road. We climbed dunes where bigger cars struggled, and the Jimny just hopped up with ease. Inside, it’s simple, no unnecessary flash, just straightforward controls with a solid feel. The boxy design catches attention everywhere; even kids were pointing at it when we stopped for tea. It’s not about speed or huge technology; the real joy of this car is freedom, you can take it anywhere without worry. For adventurous souls, it’s a budget-friendly gem.

IF you are willing to spend for a powerful and capable SUV, you have many options. But if you have a tight budget but enjoy true off-roading, the Suzuki Jimny is the best option. A compact SUV built for adventure, and enthusiasts will have fun with the ALLGRIP Pro 4WD system and a strong ladder-frame chassis. Also the suspension with 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil springs compelment well with stability and durability, all of this makes the Jimny a ideal for off-road journeys on any terrains in KSA. The compact, boxy design with retro charm makes is something special about the Jimny.

The Jimny is not for everyone but certainly is for enthusiasts who look for off-road driving fun. And to do that you get a refined and highly peppy 1.5-liter petrol engine with power figures of 101hp and 130 Nm of torque, packed with a horsepower and 130 Nm of torque, ensuring a balance of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. This combination is decent to get flexibility in driving. The part-time 4WD system with low-range gearing allows fun off-road, capable of handling rough terrain with ease. With a top speed of 145 km/h, it provides a smooth ride for various conditions.

I've owned my Suzuki Jimny for 6 months now, and it has been an amazing experience. The sporty look and high ground clearance of the Jimny make it ideal for most driving conditions. The 1.5L engine is quite powerful, and the manual gearbox provides good control. The Jimny is a compact size SUV which foldable rear seats provide lots of space, making it ideal for long and adventurous journeys. Safety features such as dual airbags and hill descent control make it safe. In general, the Jimny is a secure car for driving in the city and off road, so a perfect vehicle to take on any adventure.

I think the Jimny is only for auto enthusiasts who like the off-roading aspects of driving. Personally, I think the Jimny is just a boxy SUV with very limited space and not practical use for family. And moreover, the design is just terrible. But I understand the sentiment of those who love the car, and so it is definitely good for them as it offers exciting and fun. For someone like myself who wants a family car Jimny is certainly not the option.

Frankly, I don’t understand what the Jimny is really doing in this market, this car is nothing but just a boxy shell with hardly anything exciting. No offence to those customers who own and like this car, this is just my personal views. Actually, I recently spent some time with the Jimny, and so didn’t find anything exciting, and so naturally feel it isn’t serving any purpose. However, Suzuki has every right to make it for customers, but there are several options far better in the same price range which are practical and sensible for both on/off road use.

The Jimny is a legendary SUV from Suzuki, over 50 years of history, and honestly I was never really a big fan. However, I did check the new one available in Saudi Arabia, and my views are a mixed bag. I consider the Jimny is decent on roader and also occasional off-roader as well, with ladder frame chassis with tough suspension, hill hold and assist features. The 1.5L engine is just fine for the size of the car. The cabin is now much better in space and comfort. Suzuki offers 6 airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, keyless entry infotainment system and power windows.

I recently took a test drive of the new Jimny at one of their Jeddah dealerships, the Suzuki guys helped arrange one for both the city and on the highway. And with little expectation from this Suzuki off-roader, after driving long enough, and spending time at the dealership, the Jimny changed my perspective. I think this is a good car for its price here in Saudi Arabia. The modest 1.5 engine gives a lot of power that is a nicely tuned auto transmission. I like the cabin space and interior quality too. For an affordable price off-roader Jimny is good.