Despite its boxy design, the Suzuki Jimny offers an adorable appeal along with exceptional off-road capabilities. It also comes packed with a wide range of features. In Vietnam, dealers have already begun accepting deposits for this model, with a price tag of approximately 800 million VND.
According to reliable sources, the Suzuki Jimny is soon to make its debut in the Vietnamese market. The necessary approvals for registration have been granted by the Vehicle Registration Department under the Ministry of Transport, and dealers are now accepting deposits from interested customers.
The three-door version of the Suzuki Jimny is set to be introduced in Vietnam. It is expected to be fully imported from Thailand and has dimensions of 3,645 x 1,645 x 1,720 mm (L x W x H) with a wheelbase of 2,250 mm. It’s worth noting that these dimensions are slightly smaller than those of the existing A-segment models in the market.
Notably, the Suzuki Jimny is expected to pose strong competition to other vehicles in the market such as the Wuling EV, an electric car from a neighboring country, and the VinFast VF 3, a mini car recently revealed by a Vietnamese brand. According to available information, the Jimny will offer four seats, the same as the Wuling EV. Thanks to its compact size, it is expected to be an extremely versatile car for urban use.
Despite being a mini car, the Suzuki Jimny features its own unique Ladder Frame Chassis suspension system, setting it apart from the Unibody structure commonly found in modern cars. This traditional and time-tested frame design offers a sturdy driving experience.
Since its latest generation in 2018, the Suzuki Jimny has undergone improvements in terms of materials and frame structure, making it safer than ever before. Additionally, both the front and rear axles now have their own independent differentials.
However, unlike its “idol” the Mercedes G63, the Suzuki Jimny packs a more modest engine under the hood: a 1.5L 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine. This setup delivers a decent power output of 103 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 138 Nm of torque. It’s worth noting that this gasoline engine is not equipped with turbocharging or hybrid electric technology.
Nevertheless, the Suzuki Jimny stands out as one of the few small SUVs in its segment to provide a 4WD system, a differential lock, various axle lock modes, and comes with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Real-world experiences have shown that the Jimny is truly a capable off-road machine. Inside the car, the design is simple yet practical with a predominance of plastic elements and fabric seats. This makes it easier to clean, which is particularly useful for adventurous souls who love to hit the road at a moment’s notice.
In its latest iteration, the 2023 Suzuki Jimny has undergone size adjustments compared to its predecessor. It is now 30mm shorter, 45mm wider, and 20mm taller. These changes strike a perfect balance between off-road capabilities and an expansive and comfortable interior for passengers. Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the Japanese manufacturer has meticulously equipped the entire car, including the side trims, front/rear bumpers, and wheel arches, with plastic fenders. The matte black finish ensures a rugged, appealing appearance while also providing protection against scratches.
Upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the Suzuki Jimny comes pre-installed with door visors and a sloping roof, allowing rainwater to easily drain away or preventing snow from accumulating. These features demonstrate Suzuki’s unwavering commitment to perfecting an off-road machine that meets the needs of its customers.
However, it’s important to manage your expectations when it comes to the performance of this “mini G63.” The 1.5L gasoline engine isn’t particularly fuel-efficient for daily commuting, as it has to bear the weight of the 1.1-ton vehicle. Additionally, when venturing off-road, drivers need to carefully choose their path to prevent the car from getting stuck, as the Jimny can generate only 138 Nm of pulling force. This figure is rather modest compared to the average pickup models on the market, which typically offer around 400-500 Nm.
By accepting the Jimny’s limitations, you can wholeheartedly appreciate it as a means of transportation that boasts an eye-catching appearance and delivers a smooth driving experience. It’s suitable for light outdoor activities, weekend camping trips with family or friends, and can handle moderately challenging terrains with ease.
The Suzuki Jimny is expected to be priced at around 800 million VND, with only 150 units available for purchase. This undoubtedly presents a compelling option for outdoor enthusiasts who crave a unique and stylish vehicle.
Anh Phan (Tuoitrethudo)
Source: TopGear