The Suzuki Jimny, New Zealand’s smallest and most fuel efficient genuine four-wheel-drive vehicle, is back in full supply.
Availability of the ubiquitous three-door Jimny hardtop had been hampered following the disastrous earthquake and tsunami which struck Japan in March.
But with a return to normal production, local availability of the evergreen 1.3-litre Jimny has been restored.
Latest versions are now standardised with an upgraded and more versatile Sony MP3 compatible audio system. This change means the Jimny also gains a storage pocket and clock under the audio in the centre of the dashboard.
Recommended retail price for the entry-level Jimny JX 5-speed manual increases $1,000 to $19,990, but the higher specification Jimny Sierra manual ($22,990) and Jimny Sierra automatic ($24,500) prices are unchanged.
With its timeless good looks underpinned by highly competent four-wheel-drive mechanicals, the iconic Jimny is one of the longest running models on the New Zealand market.
The current third generation Jimny, like its predecessors, has a strong ladder type chassis and dual ratio transfer case for strong off-road ability.
Good all-round visibility and agility make the 3.645 metre long Suzuki ideal in town and urban use while its light weight, good ground clearance and low ratio gearing allow the compact SUV to go almost anywhere.
The planted stance gives it a presence that belies its compact dimensions, and the high driving position and tight turning circle are winning traits.
Suzuki’s electric Drive Select 4X4 system, activated at the touch of a button, features a transfer box with the choice of high or low ratios.
Freewheeling front hubs are engaged automatically and all wheel drive can be selected on the move at speeds up to 100 km/h.
Jimny is fundamentally designed to cope with off-road conditions with 190 mm ground clearance, approach and departure angles of 37 degrees and 46 degrees respectively, and a ramp angle of 31 degrees.
All body panels are made of high-tensile galvanised steel and the suspension is a well proven design with rigid axles front and rear, a front anti-roll bar and long-travel coil springs and gas dampers.
The variable valve, multipoint fuel injected, 1,328 cm3, M13A four-cylinder engine develops 63 kW of power, providing 1,060 kg Jimny with lively performance. At the same time it averages 7.3 litres/100 km in the European fuel consumption tests.
The first generation version launched in 1970 was the world’s first affordable, compact four-wheel-drive. It soon won many friends and now more than 2.4 million Jimnys have been sold in 188 countries.
A good design award founded by Japan’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry, was conferred on the Jimny because of its fresh thinking styling and long-lasting popularity.
