SUZUKI Philippines (SPH) has recently concluded the hype and the long wait with the official launch of the New Jimny 5-Door version. Several years after the compact off-roader’s latest generation made an impact during its global debut, the Japanese compact automaker introduced the longer and rear passenger-friendly version. SPH claims that the New Jimny 5-Door is “Paving the Way for a New Era in Filipino Adventure”.
No less than Suzuki Philippines president Koichiro Hirao expressed his excitement about the new evolution of a beloved icon and added that the Jimny has become a symbol of adventure and innovation for Filipinos. “The Jimny, deeply rooted in a rich heritage, stands as a testament to Suzuki’s commitment to excellence. Its popularity is not just a testament to its past glory but a promise of exciting journeys ahead.”
For his part, Suzuki Philippines Director and General Manager for Automobile Division Norihide Takei emphasized that Jimny is a lightweight, compact, authentic off-road vehicle capable of conquering diverse terrains. “Get ready for an incredible journey and experience the beauty of places yet undiscovered that ‘Nobody but Jimny’ can bring you.”
Two more doors for more space
After earning global recognition for its new and eye-catching boxy appearance denoting better situational awareness, the new five-door version has positively impacted enthusiasts and enhanced the vehicle’s established off-roading character. Now, with a longer 2,590mm wheelbase (340mm longer than the three-door version), the vehicle’s total length increased to 3,820mm.
The main design highlights are the upright A-pillars and flat clamshell bonnet, unique five-slot chrome-accented front grille design, and round headlamps. Of course, there is the front windshield with improved visibility and the side window’s dipped lines extending side visibility from the side. Moreover, those extended wheel flares complement the 15-inch dark metallic alloy wheels well.
Dark with minimal distraction
Inside, the dark theme conveys minimal distraction. The dashboard has that Spartan look, precisely what a rugged interior should look like.
Its instrument panel and surrounding parts have that nice and cool-grained finish with all the dial and toggle switches clustered in the center panel. Of course, the nine-inch capacitive touchscreen infotainment is equipped with an offline GPS navigation system and off-road audio guide apart from other connectivity functions.
Those horizontal lines on the instrument panel and vertical lines in the meter cluster and center console panels assist the driver in gauging the vehicle’s angle during off-road driving. The rear seat has undergone enhancements, featuring thicker cushions to provide better seating posture and comfortably accommodate two adults. Positioned directly above the rear passengers are seat lamps for illumination. In contrast, the back seat power window switches are conveniently located in both the rear doors and the front console box for easy control from both rows.
The extended wheelbase of the five-door model has resulted in an expanded luggage area. With the luggage box from the three-door model removed, the area’s lowered floor height and increased depth now offer up to 211 liters capacity (with the rear seatback raised). Other enhancements include a luggage area lamp and the removal of the toolbox for simplified loading and unloading. Like the three-door model, the luggage area has an accessory socket.
Safety and performance
Safety is paramount in the New Jimny 5-door GLX variant, featuring SRS front airbags for both the driver and seat passengers and side airbag and curtain airbags for occupants in both the front and rear seats. Additionally, the vehicle has a reverse parking camera and sensors as standard features. Other safety features include Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), anti-brake lock system, brake LSD traction control, hill hold control, hill descent control, and brake assist function.
Retained is the K15B series1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine generating 101 hp at 6,000 rpm and 130 N-m of maximum torque at 4,000 rpm. Available in four-speed automatic and five-speed manual transmissions, both 4×4 drive trains are equipped with Suzuki’s ‘All Grip Pro’ off-road function and part-time 4WD with low-range transfer gear.
True to its off-roading DNA, the Jimny 5-Door utilizes a ladder frame—proven sturdier than a monocoque body to torsion built. Further, it has a long-stroke, three-link suspension and rigid full-wheel front and rear axles for solid traction on uneven terrains. Another impressive element is the vehicle’s 37-degree specialized approach angle, 28-degree ramp breakover angle and 49-degree departure angle for easy maneuvering over ridges and verticals.
Pricing and colors
The base variant GL MT retails at P1.558 million, while the GLX AT is at P1.698 million. The special edition two-tone GLX AT is priced at P1.708 million. As for the colors, the monotone options for the GL and GLX variants include Jungle Green, Celestial Blue Pearl Metallic, Arctic White Pearl, and Granite Gray Metallic. The GLX Two-Tone variant, on the other hand, is available in Sizzling Red Metallic-Bluish Black Pearl and Chiffon Ivory Metallic-Bluish Black Pearl.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino