8 February 2011
New car review
Now it's true in general that not all 4x4s see much in the way of off-road action. To borrow and use the UK term 'Chelsea tractor' on kiwi motorists would perhaps be a little harsh, as un-metalled driveways and roads definitely count as 'off-road' as far as our northern colleagues are concerned. Ornamental gravel driveways and kerbs in Kensington don't.
Enter the Suzuki Jimny 1.3 Sierra. It's a starter level 4x4 and as such makes-do without a lot of stuff packed into more expensive competitors. The question is, has it been stripped of the ability to have fun as well? If you are wanting to spend a bit of time off the beaten track or just fancy something a little different for the farm, then the Jimny is worth a look.
Compact and bijou is probably the best way to describe this 4x4. It feels about half the size of a Land Range Disco Cruiser or whatever they are called, looking distinctly cutesy and different enough to make a bit of a statement. Part of the exterior looks come into play as soon as you are seated in the drivers seat, when you notice it has incredibly good all round visibility.
The 1.3L engine is economical (indicated 7.2L/100km) and capable, though don't look for any huge amount of torque or pace, and the four wheel drive system can be engaged without fuss on the move, including the low range too. The interior is a bit spartan but certainly not as utilitarian as some of the American offerings, and is easy to use too. One usability success is the passenger door, which surprisingly can be opened and closed with minimal effort from the drivers seat, cough.
Now I'm no hardened off-road mudslinger but possibly the suspension has a bit of conflict going on. To me at least the springs felt slightly too soft whilst the dampers felt a bit on the hard side. Whilst the Jimny (read Jiggly) may not always be pressed into farm duties, it's easy to imagine how the top of your head would regularly meet with the cabin ceiling. This all adds to the character and fun provided by Suzuki, as you experience a bit more of life.
Summary
So the Suzuki Jimny equals 4x4xfun for four on a budget, and if you are wanting an inexpensive way to go off-roading then it could be just the ticket to adventure for you. Price $20,500
Safety:
Basic entry level features include twin front airbags, side impact protection beams and anti-lock brakes, with excellent all round visibility offering safety when driving or manoeuvring around objects.
Technical
1.3L 4 cylinder 16 valve engine with Variable Valve Timing producing 63kW. With a full 4x4 ladder frame setup it has three link coil suspension, 190mm of ground clearance, a 37deg approach angle, 31deg ramp breakover angle and 46deg departure angle. Drive action 4x4 system that can be changed on the fly whilst driving.
Test Drive Top Tips:
Field Trip - consider packing a hard hat if you are planning off-road excursions
Seating - it's a true four seater so Granny may have to stay at home
Shopping - think of the boot as more of a shelf and you will get the idea