Suzuki’s formidable mini 4×4, the Jimny, is a great proposition for those who love the outdoors without having the cash to fork out for the likes of a Wrangler or something in that neck of the price-woods. But for years it’s only been available with a manual transmission, making daily commutes just a little more strenuous – until now.
Yes, Suzuki SA has officially launched the Jimny automatic, as well as a range of new paint colours and some upgraded equipment to go with the new transmission. Along with the addition of two new paint-specs, Bison Brown and Khaki Pearl Metallic, the Jimny now boasts 15-inch alloy wheels, finished in dark silver.
On the inside, the Jimny features an all-new instrument cluster; featuring speed and rev counter dials, with a new digital display which includes fuel levels, engine temperatures, trip monitor, and transfer case info. Upgraded upholstery is also included n the update, as well as a new steering wheel.
The major inclusion of an automatic transmission for the Jimny is the biggest change. The 4-speed ‘box, although somewhat old in technological time frames, should boast sturdy reliability as a key point. Low range is still included in the automatic setup, meaning the Jimny can still go anywhere and conquer anything.
The familiar 1.3-litre petrol engine remains the same in the Jimny, with outputs of 63kW @ 6000rpm and 110Nm @ 4100rpm.
Minor updates keep the Jimny fresh, but the one thing that never ages in the conquer-all ability from a pint-sized package, available for the price of R219 900 in manual guise and R234 900 for the new automatic-equipped model.
