Maruti Jimny

Positives:

• The Jimny's 1.5-litre K15B engine is built for off-roading, delivering 103bhp and 134Nm of torque; gets the option of a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox.
• Its low-range transfer gear (ALLGRIP PRO) helps conquer tough terrains with ease.
• Manual and automatic variants allow drivers to switch from 2WD to 4WD seamlessly, enhancing off-road capability.
• The ladder-frame chassis and three-link rigid axle suspension provide durability and balance for rough terrains.
• High ground clearance of 210mm, along with ample departure and approach angles (46- and 36-degrees, respectively), helps tackle obstacles effortlessly.
• The automatic transmission with a four-speed torque converter offers smooth off-road driving experiences, particularly on steep slopes and uneven terrains.
• Hill descent control allows for safe handling on challenging downhill terrains.

Negatives:

• The four-speed automatic transmission feels dated and struggles to keep the engine in its power band, especially at low revs.
• The manual transmission has vague gear shifts, especially when engaging the reverse gear, and can cause grinding issues.
• On-road driving feels less refined due to slow and unresponsive steering and the off-road intent of the suspension setup.
• The Jimny's engine feels less responsive below 2,500rpm, requiring extra effort for city driving and overtaking.
• Due to rigid suspension, it can exhibit more side-to-side movement on uneven roads compared to modern SUVs.

Maruti Suzuki Jimny Key Specifications:

Positives:

• The Jimny comes equipped with Maruti’s SmartPlay Pro+ nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system (on Alpha).

• There is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility on all versions of the Maruti Jimny.
• One gets auto climate control, keyless start, cruise control, and auto headlamps as standard in the Alpha variant.

• A seven-inch touchscreen, manual AC, and steel wheels are available in the base Zeta variant, providing reasonable value for the price.
• A practical drip rail prevents water from dripping when entering/exiting the vehicle and allows for easy roof carrier installation.

• The cabin offers enough legroom and headroom for four passengers, with comfortable seating even for longer journeys.

Negatives:

• There’s a lack of properly functional storage options like cup holders and door pockets, and no bottle holders in the doors.
• Features like a powered driver's seat and a 360-degree camera are absent, even in the top variant.
• The cabin uses hard plastics throughout, which may feel too basic for some buyers at this price.

Positives:

• Standard across all variants are six airbags, hill-hold and descent control, ESP, and ABS with EBD, ensuring off-road and on-road safety.
• The brake Limited Slip Differential (LSD) feature helps the Jimny tackle slippery surfaces by redistributing torque to wheels with traction.
• It has ISOFIX child seat anchorages, side-impact door beams, and a reinforced ladder-frame chassis for better crash protection.

Negatives:

• The Jimny has yet to undergo NCAP testing for crash ratings.
• While it offers excellent safety features, ADAS features like lane departure warnings are not available.

Positives:

• The Jimny maintains a rugged, timeless design with its upright A-pillars, unique clamshell bonnet, and trapezoidal wheel arches.

• It has appreciated exterior features like LED headlamps, headlamp washers, and scratch-resistant bumpers which help maintain its off-road readiness.

• The interior design focuses on functionality, with easy-to-use controls and toggle switches for rough terrains.

• It is available in standout colours like Kinetic Yellow and Sizzling Red; the Jimny is crafted to both blend in and stand out in the off-road world.

Negatives:

• The use of hard plastics dominates the interior, which may feel less premium compared to rivals in its price segment.
• With its compact cabin design, the Jimny is strictly a four-seater, limiting practicality for larger families or longer trips.