Are you thinking of buying a Suzuki Jimny? According to a South African expert car reviewer, the Suzuki Jimny has a distinct blend of charm and ruggedness and stands out in today’s automotive landscape. This diminutive off-roader captured the hearts of a diverse audience, from elderly individuals with dyed hair to stay-at-home moms, trendy hipsters, and urban professionals eager to convey a sense of adventure. Universally appealing, Jimny’s design struck a balance between “Pokémon cute” and “Camel Man tough,” a departure from the increasingly homogenized aesthetics dominating the current market.1
The Suzuki Jimny’s Looks
In a world where many vehicles share a generic design language, the Suzuki Jimny embraces a straight-edged aesthetic reminiscent of a bygone era. Its unapologetic design sets it apart and has garnered a fan following. Admired by many, this compact off-roader could be a contender for investment. However, recent experience with the 1.5 GLX Automatic Rhino Edition led the reviewer to re-evaluate its universal appeal. 1
The Drive
The Jimny shines as a city commuter, effortlessly navigating traffic with the agility of a bumblebee. Its compact dimensions and soft suspension make it adept at squeezing into tight parking spots, a valuable feature in urban environments. Excellent visibility and a commanding seat position enhance its suitability for daily city driving, particularly in locations like Cape Town, where parallel parking is a regular challenge. 1
According to the car reviewer, the softly sprung suspension proves advantageous in urban settings, quickly smoothing road imperfections. While Cape Town may present mild road conditions, Jimny’s comfortable ride becomes valuable in cities with poorly maintained roads, such as Johannesburg. In terms of technology, the GLX variant is well-equipped with features like automatic climate control, a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, and more, catering to the demands of modern motorists. 1
Behind the wheel, the expert car reviewer had a comfortable driving experience, with the driver’s seat accommodating even taller individuals. The 4×4 capabilities were assessed on a self-catering resort’s rugged terrain, displaying the Jimny’s off-road prowess. However, the disconnect between its urban and country performance becomes evident during longer commutes. 1
On extended journeys, the Jimny revealed its limitations. Drivetrain whine, wind noise, and a tendency to feel unstable in crosswinds or when passed by larger vehicles contributed to a less-than-ideal highway experience. The aerodynamics of the square front section resulted in significant drag and increased fuel consumption at higher speeds. Emphasizing that the Jimny is not designed for high-speed, long-distance travel, maintaining a steady speed becomes necessary to manage fuel efficiency. 1
A Vehicle With Caracter
While its fuel efficiency may not match larger counterparts, the Jimny compensates with its unique personality and character. The design contributes to its charm and brings practical challenges, such as limited lumbar support in the front seats and restricted boot space unless the rear seats are folded down. Despite these drawbacks and a three-star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating, the reviewer believes that Jimny’s feel-good factor is unparalleled. 1
So, the 2022 Suzuki Jimny 1.5 GLX Rhino Automatic, priced at R385,900, offers a distinctive driving experience that appeals to a broad audience. While there are more well-rounded alternatives on the market, Jimny’s character and off-road capabilities make it a standout choice for those who prioritize uniqueness and versatility over conventional features. Despite its flaws, the Suzuki Jimny remains a cubist anomaly in the automotive landscape, bringing its owners and admirer’s joy. 1
Disclaimer:
The article aims to provide South African motorists with an overview of the Suzuki Jimny. 1
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This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own. The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.