New Suzuki Jimny confirmed for Australia
The first all-new Jimny in twenty years, the upcoming version is also only the fourth generation to be offered since the off-roader debuted in 1970. A release in Japan (in two versions – Jimny and Jimny Sierra) is expected later this year, followed by Australian deliveries in Q1, 2019.
“The Jimny is synonymous with the Suzuki brand and to have an all-new model on its way is something worth talking about,” said Suzuki Australia General Manager, Automobile, Mr. Michael Pachota.
The Australian landscape will be a true test for the iconic 4WD and I have no doubt it will rise to the challenge. I am very excited (for) the return of this legendary off-road compact SUV, in its all-new guise, to complement our already strong line-up of Suzuki vehicles in Australia.”
In terms of styling, familiar Jimny cues carry over, including the wheelarch flares, five-slot grille and externally-mounted spare wheel, but where the most recent Jimny featured rounded corners and a softer overall look, the new version looks more utilitarian, with boxy dimensions and more straight edges that reflects current Jeep and Mercedes G-Class styling.
Full specifications are yet to be announced, but Suzuki has revealed the Australian-delivered Jimny will be powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with “ample torque at low revolutions maintaining off-road driving performance as well as enhanced fuel economy”. Transmission options have not been confirmed, but a 5-speed manual and 4-speed auto are likely.
The body-on-frame SUV will maintain its off-road cred with an ‘ALLGRIP PRO’ part-time 4WD system (an advanced version of what’s used in the current Vitara) adding a low-range transfer case for rough terrain driving ability.
Other confirmed specifications include hill hold and hill descent control, high beam assist headlights, DRLs and a multimedia satellite navigation system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Safety features include Dual Sensor Brake Support and Electronic Stability Control, as well as a comprehensive suite of airbags. Further details will be revealed closer to local release.
