Modern classic: Pros and Cons of the Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny line dates back to the 1970s, and it instantly became an off-roading hit with its boxy styling, capable body-on-frame chassis, and a rough-and-tumble appeal. These qualities, such as the three-door shape, are still alive in the current Jimny, so it's now admired by those who appreciate "modern classics."

But does the modern and retro seamlessly mix in the 2023 Suzuki Jimny? To know the answer, let’s look at the pros and cons of this compact SUV.

Pros

Quirky, Retro Styling

The latest Suzuki Jimny is absolutely dripping with classic design elements. With its boxy, upright body, the modern Jimny transports you back to the 1980s.

That also results in the 2023 Suzuki Jimny’s muscular and rugged vibe. The roof is installed with a drip rail to prevent any leakage when driving in rainy weather. The Jimny also sports a pair of round LED headlamps which are equipped with washers for better visibility when passing through muddy and dusty terrains.

Functional Interior

Suzuki made sure to keep everything contemporary where it matters, despite the Jimny's exterior's antique aesthetic extending inside. A new infotainment system is available, with a color touchscreen interface, smartphone mirroring, and remote controls positioned on the steering wheel. Between the two orange-on-black gauges is another digital display for the vehicle's settings. Despite having a retro aesthetic generally, the Jimny skillfully incorporates certain contemporary elements.

Robust Off-Road Capability

In addition to having the capacity to "meet the driver's spirit of adventure, and gives the driver strength to face and explore challenges," Suzuki describes the AllGrip Pro system as a part-time four-wheel drive system with reduction gear that also "satisfies the driving performance required by professionals to instantly respond and manoeuver through difficult terrain."

In contrast to a monocoque body, the ladder frame architecture of the AllGrip Pro is more torsion-resistant and more suited for off-road excursions. A low range transfer gear and a 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil springs help make the drive more powerful and torquey.

Reassuring Safety Systems

Despite its quirky appearance, the Jimny places a high priority on passenger security. Better crash safety is provided by a body design that uses Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), which incorporates impact-absorbing elements throughout. A further electronic stability component monitors for wheel slippage and automatically adjusts the engine torque to the prevailing road conditions.

Along with them, the vehicle has a clever brake limited slip differential (LSD) traction control system, dual front airbags, hill descent control, hill hold control, and a pedestrian injury mitigation body.

Con

Limited Cargo Space

The Jimny is surprisingly roomy for front and rear passengers given its size. Taller adults have plenty of room up front, but getting into the back is difficult because of the vehicle's three-door design. However, once you're there, you'll have adequate head, elbow, and knee room even if you're six feet tall.

The boot of the 2023 Suzuki Jimny was significantly reduced to make room for the back seat. You only have 85 liters available with the back seats in place when they are raised. Only a small knapsack or laptop bag will fit in the given space; anything larger will necessitate folding both of the rear seats 50:50 to reveal a 377-liter luggage area. The front passenger seat can be folded flat if you need to transport considerably longer objects.

Verdict

The 2023 Suzuki Jimny is every bit the genuine off-roader it has been portrayed as based on its retro appearance and modern performance. Fortunately, this Suzuki 4x4 has the attitude and finesse to back up the many buyers who were won over by its looks alone. There is no reason the Suzuki Jimny can't be the off-road vehicle you need as long as you pack light.

Photos from Suzuki