Introduction: The Suzuki Jimny’s Unique Appeal

The Suzuki Jimny, a small yet rugged 4×4, has long held a special place in the compact SUV market. Its design is simple, practical, and built for tough terrains. With its off-road capability and compact size, the Jimny bridges the gap between small city cars and full-fledged off-roaders. But is this ultra-compact 4×4 worth considering, especially given its high running costs and dated ride quality? Let’s dive into the details to see what makes the Suzuki Jimny stand out.

Design: Small but Tough

The Suzuki Jimny has a distinct personality that makes it instantly recognizable. It’s small—only five millimeters longer than a Ford Ka—but it looks like a real off-roader. Flared wheel arches, bulky side panels, roof rails, and a spare tire mounted on the tailgate all give the Jimny its rugged charm. Despite its off-road aesthetics, the Jimny’s design also incorporates some car-like aerodynamics, making it more versatile than its appearance might suggest.
Inside, the cabin is basic but functional. The interior is dominated by simple grey plastic, and the layout is user-friendly. It’s designed for practicality rather than luxury, but that simplicity is part of its charm. The cabin space is decent, with enough room for anyone up to six feet tall to sit comfortably. However, rear seating is limited, and the luggage space is tight, though reasonably versatile for a car of its size.

Driving in the City: Maneuverable and Practical

In urban environments, the Suzuki Jimny shines. Its high seating position offers excellent all-round visibility, making it easy to navigate through city traffic. The compact size allows it to fit into tight parking spaces that larger SUVs can’t manage. The 1.3-liter engine is well-suited for city driving, delivering enough power to nip in and out of traffic with ease.
However, the Jimny’s limitations become apparent on longer journeys. The 1.3-liter all-aluminum engine, producing 85 horsepower, can feel underpowered on highways. To access most of its power, you’ll need to push the engine up to its 6,000 RPM limit, which can make the engine feel strained. Handling on twisty roads is adequate but far from sharp. That said, for most city dwellers, the Jimny provides more than enough capability for everyday driving.

Off-Road Capabilities: Where the Jimny Excels

While the Suzuki Jimny may struggle on highways, it’s in off-road environments where this little 4×4 truly shines. Thanks to its ladder frame chassis, the Jimny handles rough terrains confidently. The four-wheel-drive system, activated through Suzuki’s Drive Select system, allows you to engage off-road modes seamlessly, even while driving. The compact size and lightweight body give it an advantage in narrow or rocky paths that larger SUVs might struggle with.
However, the Jimny’s small size also limits its off-road capabilities. While it can handle most light off-roading tasks, it lacks the power and ground clearance to take on the toughest trails. Still, for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or conquer mild off-road terrain, the Jimny is more than capable.

Ride Quality: A Trade-Off for Off-Road Performance

One drawback to the Jimny’s off-road prowess is its ride quality. On paved roads, especially at higher speeds, the Jimny tends to feel bouncy and unsettled. The suspension is designed for rugged conditions, so it doesn’t handle city bumps as smoothly as modern crossovers or hatchbacks. The light steering and smooth gear changes do help mitigate some of this, making the Jimny easier to drive in short urban trips. But for longer journeys, the jiggly ride may become tiresome.

Practicality and Interior Features

The Suzuki Jimny’s practicality extends beyond its compact size. Despite being small, it offers useful features like power-assisted steering, front electric windows, and electric mirrors. The GLX trim also includes a radio/CD player, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and front airbags for both the driver and passenger.
However, the rear space is tight, and with the back seats up, the boot capacity is limited. Fold the seats down, and you’ll get more space, though it’s still not on par with larger SUVs. One of the Jimny’s quirks is that it offers just enough practicality for those who need it, without trying to compete with larger, more luxurious vehicles.

Running Costs: Higher Than Expected

For a small car, the Jimny’s running costs are surprisingly high. The 1.3-liter petrol engine delivers just 38 miles per gallon, largely due to the 4×4 mechanicals that add weight. Emissions are also relatively high for a compact car, at 174 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Depreciation is another consideration, although the Jimny’s unique appeal helps it retain some of its value over time. On the plus side, the Jimny benefits from reasonably affordable group 7 insurance.

Price and Value

Prices for the Suzuki Jimny start at just under £10,000, making it one of the most affordable 4×4 vehicles on the market. The strong value proposition comes from its off-road capability and practical size, making it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly off-roader. Buyers can also opt for the GLX Plus model, which includes a few extra styling accessories to enhance the car’s appearance.
Despite its high running costs and rough ride quality, the Jimny is still a great value for buyers who genuinely need off-road capability in a small, affordable package. For those willing to overlook its quirks, the Jimny offers a lot of character and capability for the price.

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Suzuki Jimny?

The Suzuki Jimny is a rare blend of affordability, off-road prowess, and compact size. It’s perfect for city dwellers who want something a little different from the typical hatchback, with the added benefit of 4×4 capabilities. While it may not excel in terms of ride comfort or fuel efficiency, it delivers on its promise of being a genuine, budget-friendly off-roader.
If you’re after a small, affordable car with real off-road credentials, the Suzuki Jimny deserves serious consideration. It may not be the most refined car on the market, but its rugged charm and practicality make it a compelling choice.
For more insights, I found someone who shared a similar experience with this unique vehicle, and I was inspired by their review. Check it out here: Suzuki Jimny 1998-2018 Full Review.