New Suzuki Jimny

Suzuki Jimny – the one-and-only, small and lightweight 4WD vehicle

• All new Jimny model on sale in the UK since January 2019
• Retains its traditional Ladder-frame chassis for optimum off-road performance
• Body frame torsional rigidity 50 per cent stiffer than previous model for enhanced on-road performance
• ALLGRIP ‘PRO’ selectable four-wheel drive fitted as standard equipment
• Most technically advanced Jimny model available with Dual Sensor Brake Support, Hill Descent Control, Lane Departure Warning, six airbags, LED Headlights and High Beam Assist all fitted as standard equipment.
• Two model grades available – SZ4 and SZ5
• High standard specification for SZ4 including air conditioning, cruise control, CD player with DAB Radio, Bluetooth connectivity and front foglamps.
• SZ5 adds 15-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, Climate Control, Navigation system with Smartphone Link, heated front seats and rear privacy glass.
• Powered by 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an output of 101PS – of lightweight construction for improved fuel efficiency
• First Jimny model launched in 1970 with total cumulative global sales of 2,854,000 units
• Total UK sales of more than 43,000 units since launch in 1998
• Historical timeline of Jimny included in the second section of this press pack

Ever since the first Jimny made its debut in April 1970, it has been a masterpiece of Suzuki’s 4WD technology. It is the one and only authentic off-roader that is small and lightweight, but still retains its core off-road performance desired by professionals. More than two decades have passed since the third-generation model made its debut in 1998 and the Jimny has now evolved to its fourth generation in 50 years of history.

The all-new Jimny now has even more functionality and practicality on both its appearance and performance while still fully embodying the spirit of its much-loved predecessors and its core concept of being the "one-and-only, small, lightweight 4WD vehicle”. The new model crafts together simplicity, functional beauty and 4WD technology that leave both off-road professionals and city-users wanting more.

All-new Jimny highlights

Practical exterior

The beauty of simplicity and off-road functionality are both realised with its robust exterior. Its strong square body expresses its off-road ability and robustness as well as assisting with the driver’s situational awareness. The more upright A-pillars and flat clamshell bonnet enhance visibility from the windscreen, while the dipped driver and passenger window lines provide good visibility from the side windows. The front grille is simple and black, highlighting the round signature headlamps, with 15-inch dark-metallic alloy wheels* accentuating the strong exterior even more.

Other exterior features include drip rails on the roof edges which prevent water ingress into the cabin when opening or closing a door, wheel arch extensions and side sill covers that protect the body from stone chips. The rear lamps are now gathered on the bumper to achieve a simplistic design and contribute to a wider rear door opening.

*Availability depends on vehicle configuration

Standard Equipment

The new Jimny offers a much higher level of equipment than the previous model and SZ4 offers selectable 4WD with low ratio transfer, Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS), Air Conditioning, CD Tuner, Bluetooth connectivity, Cruise Control and front foglamps. Moving up to SZ5 adds 15-inch alloy wheels, LED Headlights, Climate Control, Navigation with Smartphone link, rear privacy glass, heated front seats and body coloured door handles.

Colours

Six body colours are available for UK models including a colour developed exclusively for the new Jimny: a high-visibility “Kinetic Yellow” designed to stand out in bad weather or when in use on rough ground worksites.

Heritage design

Many design elements were inherited from past Suzuki legends, creating a familiar yet distinct Jimny look.

Functional Interior

Design

Straightforward, practical and down-to-earth, every detail is carefully crafted to realise an attractive yet functional interior. The handsome black interior is without excessive colours or decoration to minimise distraction and lets the driver concentrate on manoeuvring the vehicle. The horizontal lines defined by the instrument panel, and the vertical lines characterised by the meter cluster and centre console panels help the driver recognise the angle of the vehicle in rough and mountainous terrain.

Functionality

Everything surrounding the driver and front passenger is built for professional use. Crafted for carefree dependability, the instrument panel and surrounding parts have a scratch and stain-resistant grained finish, and the grip and switches are easy to operate so that it can be handled in off-road conditions as well as when wearing gloves. The instruments are set in cubic housings that are permanently lit for clear viewing on and off-road and when the vehicle passes between sunlit and shaded areas. For intuitive operation of the audio system, a Bluetooth®-compatible Smartphone Linkage Display Audio unit with a 7-inch infrared touchscreen is fitted on the SZ5 model.

Luggage Space

The rear luggage space can be expanded by folding the rear seats, creating a 377 litre*¹ luggage space which is 53 litres larger than its predecessor. The rear seats now fold fully flat and the quarter trims and seats have been carefully designed to increase storage width. The backs of the rear seats and luggage room floor are coated with plastic*² for easy removal of dirt or stains and five hook points are fitted on each side under the quarter windows along with four luggage hooks around the floor area for flexible usage of luggage space.

*¹ Measured without luggage box using the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) method. All figures are manufacturer data. *² Availability depends on vehicle configuration

Uncompromising performance

Authentic off roaders must be tough enough to handle the harshest conditions. From its ladder frame structure to its 1.5-litre engine, the latest Jimny is built for rough-road adventures. But on-road ability was not compromised, with the higher torsional rigidity of the ladder frame providing a more comfortable ride on the road, and newly equipped steering damper on the front suspension minimising steering wheel vibration and kickback. Whether navigating the urban jungle or exploring off the beaten track, the Jimny is sure to satisfy adventurous minds.

Off-road capability

The Jimny incorporates the four essentials for serious off-roading — a ladder frame, the three angles, 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil spring and part-time 4WD with low range transfer gear. Designed for professionals, it features ALLGRIP PRO*.

*ALLGRIP PRO is Suzuki’s 4WD system designed for high off-road ability.

When two wheels diagonal from each other lose traction, the Jimny’s brake LSD traction control automatically brake the slipping wheels to redistribute torque to the other side and allow the vehicle to gain traction.

This system allows the Jimny to escape slippery surfaces as well as bumpy rough roads that could vary on the right and left sides.

1.5-litre engine

The former 1.3-litre engine is replaced by a 1.5-litre unit in the latest model. It delivers higher torque than its predecessor with ample torque available at low revolutions which enhances driving performance especially while driving off-road where a low engine speed is often needed. Despite the increased displacement, it has smaller overall dimensions than the engine it replaces, with 15 per cent reduced weight, contributing to enhanced fuel efficiency.

5-speed manual transmission and 4-speed automatic transmission

The 5-speed manual transmission has optimised gear ratios for the new engine and offers better fuel efficiency. The shift lever has been redesigned to reduce vibration and provides a more solid and direct gear shift feeling. The four-speed automatic transmission has also been redesigned to offer less friction and better fuel economy and the shift pattern has been changed from the former gate type to the straight (aligned) type to simplify operation.

Safety

Suzuki Safety Support is Suzuki’s preventative safety technology that helps the driver avoid accidents and supports the driver to have peace of mind during everyday driving.  Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS)* is fitted as standard which operates if the system determines that there is a risk of collision with a forward vehicle or pedestrian. If activated, it issues an audio and visual warning, increases braking force, or applies autonomous emergency braking depending on the situation to help avoid a collision or reduce damage.

Other functions included as standard equipment for new Jimny include Lane Departure Warning* and weaving alert function* which help the driver stay alert, and high beam assist* supports relaxing and courteous night driving by automatically switching the high and low beams at speeds of 25mph and above.

^*Each function operates at different vehicle speeds and under certain conditions.

In the new Jimny, traffic sign recognition monitors the road ahead for traffic signs. When it detects road signs such as speed limits or no passing zones, it displays the sign on the meter display to help the driver remember which road signs the car has passed. For additional traffic signs showing supplementary information, a blank box is displayed under the main traffic sign to inform the driver. The new Jimny is the first Suzuki model to adopt this system.

Other safety technologies

*¹ Registered trademark of Daimler AG.
*² Total Effective Control Technology

Section 2 - Suzuki Jimny – History Timeline

The original concept of the Jimny series was to develop a 4WD mini-car that can take on rough roads and go to places that cars couldn't go in the past. With this philosophy, the first of the series, the LJ10, was born in 1970. Being the one-and-only authentic off-roader in the Japanese mini-car segment, it created a sensation in the four-wheel drive market which at the time consisted of only large and high-displacement vehicles.

Almost half a century since then Suzuki has refined its technology to meet various demands and now the passion and accumulated technologies have been passed down through evolution to the all-new Jimny. The new model carries on the heritage of a small, lightweight, authentic off-roader and is a masterpiece of Suzuki’s four-wheel drive history.

First generation (1970 – 1981)

Development of the LJ10, Suzuki’s first four-wheel drive lightweight vehicle, started in 1968. So that it could endure the rough usage of an off-roading vehicle, it went through a variety of severe tests, from dropping the vehicle one metre to the ground to testing durability in the volcanic sands of Mt. Fuji. It became available in the market in March 1970 and was the first mass-produced four-wheel drive in Japan's domestic mini-car category.

Developed for professional use, it was a compact three-seater weighing only 600kg and a wheelbase of 1,930mm. It had a ladder frame, low range transfer gear and rigid axles, which have all been passed down to later generations, leaf springs to cope with large loads for the light and small body, and zipped canvas doors. The first LJ was powered by a small two cylinder air-cooled two-stroke 360cc engine turning out 25bhp. With its one-and-only philosophy and small but powerful performance, it earned high acclaim not only from professional users but from non-off roaders as well.

With the growing customer base, the LJ evolved to meet various market demands. Based on strong demand from snowy regions, the LJ20 which debuted 2 years later in 1972 was equipped with a water-cooled engine and enhanced heater performance. A van-type model was added, and the distinctive front grille with vertical openings was also adopted from this model.

Following the success of LJ10 and LJ20 in Japan, in 1974, the LJ50, with a 550cc three-cylinder, water-cooled two stroke engine with stronger power was exported to Central/South America, Middle East and Oceania and soon gained a reputation as a fun to go anywhere vehicle.

What was originally a utility vehicle gradually shifted upmarket and exports steadily grew. For the last LJ model designated as LJ80 and making its debut in 1977, Suzuki developed a bigger engine to optimise the performance for the global market. With larger front wheel arches and flared rear wheel arches, the LJ80 offered a more stylish design. The bonnet, still held down with two spring clips as on earlier model LJs, was slightly raised to make room for the biggest change: a new four-cylinder, water-cooled 800cc four-stroke engine producing 41bhp.

The LJ80 was Suzuki’s first four-stroke automobile and the LJ series were sold to a total of 109 countries. Accumulated sales of the first-generation LJ Jimny totalled 243,000 units.

Second generation (1981 - 1998)

In 1981, the Jimny went through the first full model change after 11 years, since the launch of the LJ10. With four-wheel drive vehicles gaining popularity in Europe and North America, demand for the LJ grew in line, and the second generation, the SJ410, was strategically developed to challenge the global market.

With its sharp design, the SJ410 evolved the former Jimny’s practical image to a stylish off-roader suited for both urban and off-road settings. It was also aimed as a vehicle that can be enjoyed by both genders, with maximised interior space and riding comfort. Still true to its off-road heritage, it featured the leaf-spring suspension inherited from its predecessors, and increased approach and departure angles.

Under the new bodywork, there was a brand new, four-cylinder 1000cc four-stroke engine delivering 45bhp. With its strong power and torque, it demonstrated its high performance both on and off-road, contributing to the expansion of the leisure four-wheel drive market.

In 1984, the SJ413 was launched with the ambition to take on the global market. It carried a 1.3 litre engine with a lightweight, aluminium cylinder block, and was the highest engine displacement in a Suzuki at the time. Global popularity grew so rapidly that at one time, out of the 10,000 units being produced in Japan per month, 7,000 were for exports.

Continuous enhancements were made year on year including the introduction of power steering and a 5-speed manual transmission for more ease of driving. Ride comfort was greatly enhanced when the suspension was changed from leaf-spring suspension passed down from the first generation, which was strong but lacked the desired vibration absorption performance to the current 3-link coil spring which helped balance both on and off-road performance. It was released with a variety of names which were Samurai, Caribbean and Sierra in different countries and regions throughout the world.

SJ413 was also manufactured in several locations, including Japan, Spain and India. Different versions were available including canvas top versions, wide-track and long-wheelbase models as well as pick-up trucks that were introduced to some markets in accordance with local demand.

Accumulated sales of the second generation Jimny series totalled to 1.693 million units.

Third generation (1998 - 2018)

In 1998, the third generation Jimny made its debut. While upholding its off-road character it introduced a higher level of comfort and offered greater stability and manoeuvrability also on-road. Its exterior was redesigned, having a solid, round shape that accentuates its smooth aerodynamic body, but still retaining its familiar elements in the vertical front grille openings.

The new design transformed the conventional image of a four-wheel drive vehicle and introduced a future generation styling for off roaders. Its wheelbase was extended for a more spacious interior cabin, and overhangs trimmed for maximum approach and departure angles. The ladder frame and 3-link rigid suspension were tuned for even better on-road comfortability as well as off-road capability.

The new part-time 4WD system allowed switching between 2WD and 4WD while driving, enabling easy responses to changing road conditions. Satisfying various demands from fashionable city-usage to professional-use in the wilderness, the third generation Jimny was highly acclaimed worldwide even 20 years after its launch.

Accumulated sales of this model totalled 918,000 units.

Fourth generation (2018 -)

In 2018, the Jimny evolved once again. Fully embodying the spirit of its much-loved predecessors and the core concept of being the "one-and-only, small, lightweight 4WD vehicle", the all-new Jimny makes its debut with even more functionality and practicality on both its appearance and performance.

Developed to be a “tool for professionals”, it was committed to the Jimny’s authenticity, and inherited the robust ladder frame, part-time 4WD with transfer gear, and 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil spring, all key essentials for serious off-roading. Its exterior is simple and beautiful, with the body built to express strong off-roading in every detail.

The interior lures the spirit of adventure with its straightforward, practical and down-to-earth design. While having the compact body and serious off-roading performance to conquer rough roads, on-road ability was not compromised, with the rigid ladder frame and enhanced suspensions providing ride comfort and solid handling.

For the powertrain, a more powerful and fuel efficient 1.5 litre engine is adopted. The all-new Jimny has been perfected to the satisfaction of professionals and Jimny fans, as well as for the enjoyment of city users and first-time owners alike.

The Jimny model series has achieved over 2,854,000 accumulated sales throughout the world and has been sold in 194 countries and regions for 50 years. The new Jimny will continue to support outdoor professionals and captivate on and off-road adventurers.

*Specifications and availability varied depending on markets.

ENDS.

Media contacts:

Alun Parry
Telephone: 01908 336760
Mobile: 07912 731407
E-mail: alun.parry@suzuki.co.uk

Jessica Grimditch
Telephone: 01908 336775
Mobile: 07710 582227
E-mail: jessica.grimditch@suzuki.co.ukTwitter: @SuzukiPress