By Manny N. de los Reyes
SUZUKI has unveiled the much-awaited all-new Jimny. Suzuki’s new baby 4×4 boasts a simple, rugged design and promises the same legendary off-road capability that remains faithful to its iconic predecessors.
“Our determination to provide simple, straightforward, and functional vehicles such as the Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro underscores our commitment to continuously provide innovation that Filipinos can rely on. Every detail of the fourth-generation Jimny — from the body to the engine — is designed to deliver the maximum performance and durability required by serious off-road travelers. With this newest addition to our lineup of vehicles, more Filipinos can now enjoy the Suzuki Way of Life as they explore more challenges and adventures,” said SPH Director and Automobile Division General Manager Keiichi Suzuki.
The Jimny uses a rugged yet lightweight ladder frame that is better suited for rough terrain. It uses a long-stroke 3-link suspension and rigid full wheel axles on both front and rear — the ideal setup for unstoppable off-roading.
It can climb over obstacles and steep hills without scraping its bumpers or underbody. The vehicle’s 37-degree approach angle, 28-degree ramp break-over angle, and 49-degree departure angle allow it to maneuver over ridges and verticals with ease.
With its part-time 4WD with low-range transfer gear, the Jimny can switch between 4WD and 2WD to achieve optimal off-road performance and better fuel economy and enhanced cornering on paved roads, respectively. It also has extra torque in the 4L mode for rough terrain.
To its formidable go-anywhere features, the new Jimny adds hill hold control, hill descent control and brake limited slip-differential (LSD) traction control. These systems allow both wheels to maintain speed and better control in rough road conditions.
The tiny SUV sports a square body for better situational awareness. The Jimny’s compact dimensions allow it to maneuver through narrow mountain trails and thick forests, a clear advantage over larger off-road vehicles. Its super light weight lets it conquer mud, sand and up steep slippery slopes where heavier vehicles tend to get stuck.
The Jimny’s design expresses off-road functionality in every detail, from the tough square form to the 15-inch alloy wheels painted in dark-metallic gray. The angled bumper is optimized for off-road terrain while the square wheel arches allow for easier tire changes. Molded black bumpers, wheel arch extensions and side sills help block pebbles from scratching the body panels. The iconic round headlamps inherited from past models are completely separated to allow independent replacement.
The interior mirrors the simple and straightforward exterior. Black is used to minimize distraction, with functional parts such as center switches and dials in metallic colors for easy use. The instrument panel and surrounding parts have scratch- and stain-resistant grained finish while the circular steering wheel has a leather cover to withstand rough handling.
The multimedia audio unit features a big 9-inch capacitive touchscreen with large icons and soft buttons for easy control. It features off-line GPS navigation system and off-road audio guide.
The new Jimny accommodates 53 liters more luggage than the previous model. Small items can be stored in a removable luggage box for easier organization.
The Jimny uses a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine that delivers stronger torque at all engine speeds than the previous Jimny. It features a specially designed flywheel for engine flexibility and improved NVH and a lightweight resin belt cover and fuel tank. The optimized intake system and long nozzle injector enhance fuel efficiency.
The Jimny boasts Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), which scatters collision energy across the vehicle frame to minimize injury to the passengers.
To reduce driver stress and fatigue — one of the top design considerations for the new Jimny — the SUV’s ladder frame rigidity was increased and the body mounts redesigned for lower vibration. The front seat cushion frames are 70mm wider and 50mm taller for better shock absorption. Unpleasant noise inside the cabin was reduced through the strategic placement of sound-absorbing material throughout the body.
For greater dependability, the Jimny All-Grip Pro use zinc-coated steel more extensively and has a more effective floor undercoating and sealer coatings at panel edges to protect it against rust caused by salt from river crossings.
The Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro starts at P975,000 and comes in two variants, the GLX and GL. They come in Solid Kinetic Yellow, Metallic Brisk Blue, Metallic Chiffon Ivory, Pearl Bluish Black, Solid Medium Gray, Metallic Silky Silver, Superior White and Solid Jungle Green.
