Reviewed: Suzuki Jimny five-door SUV
The Suzuki Jimny 5-door is priced from $40,990 for the manual, $44,990 for the auto. Photos: Suzuki/Liz Dobson
The Suzuki three-door Jimny has long been a favourite among off-road enthusiasts for its ruggedness, compact size, and charming retro design so now meet the five-door version that performs equally off- and on-road.
It is priced from $40,990 for the manual, $44,990 for the auto or add just over $500 for two-tone paint for either models.
The 2024 five-door Suzuki Jimny is built on the same robust ladder-frame chassis as the three-door version. This platform, known for its durability and strength, is a key component of the Jimny’s off-road capabilities. The ladder-frame design allows for better torsional rigidity, making the vehicle more resilient to the stresses of off-road driving.
In terms of design, the five-door Jimny retains the boxy, utilitarian look that has become synonymous with the model. The extra doors do not detract from its rugged appeal; instead, they add to its practicality.
The vehicle now measures approximately 3,850 mm in length, an increase of about 340 mm over the three-door variant. This size difference translates to more interior space, particularly in the rear seats and cargo area, making the five-door Jimny a more versatile option for families and those needing extra room.
The five-door Jimny retains the boxy, utilitarian look that has become synonymous with the model.
Inside, the Jimny five-door it’s back to basics offering dual camera brake support, climate air con and a 9-in touchscreen display. It has a lot of hard materials and the design is practical.
On the road, the five-door Suzuki Jimny continues to offer a driving experience that is very much in line with its three-door counterpart. Powering the vehicle is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing around 75kW of power and 130 Nm of torque. While these numbers are modest, they are adequate for a vehicle of this size and weight, especially considering its primary focus is not on high-speed performance but on off-road capability.
The Jimny’s road manners are characterised by its high seating position and excellent visibility, making it easy to navigate through urban environments. However, its short wheelbase and tall profile can make it feel somewhat bouncy and less stable at higher speeds such as motorways or on uneven back roads. The steering is light but not particularly precise, which is typical for vehicles with off-road-biased tyres and suspension setups.
Despite these quirks, the Jimny handles city driving and motorway cruising competently. The five-speed manual transmission is geared more towards low-speed, high-torque applications, which suits the Jimny’s off-road credentials but can feel slightly underwhelming during spirited driving on the road.
The Jimny has a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine.
Where the Suzuki Jimny truly shines is off the beaten path. The five-door variant inherits all the off-road prowess of the three-door model, with a few added benefits thanks to its increased length. The vehicle features a part-time four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing, making it exceptionally capable on rugged terrain. Its compact size allows it to navigate narrow trails and tight spots that larger SUVs might struggle with.
Key off-road specifications include a ground clearance of 210 mm, approach and departure angles of 37 and 49 degrees respectively, and a breakover angle of 28 degrees. These figures highlight Jimny’s ability to tackle steep inclines, sharp descents, and uneven terrain with ease. The ladder-frame chassis, combined with rigid axles and coil springs on all four corners, provides excellent articulation and durability in challenging conditions.
The five-door version's slightly longer wheelbase can aid in stability during off-road excursions, although it may slightly reduce the breakover angle compared to the three-door model. Nonetheless, the Jimny remains a highly competent off-roader, capable of taking on trails that would challenge many of its more road-oriented competitors.
The decision to opt for the five-door Jimny over the three-door version often comes down to practicality and versatility. The additional doors and increased length make the five-door variant a more family-friendly option, providing easier access to the rear seats and more legroom for passengers. This makes it a viable choice for those who need a compact SUV that can handle daily commuting, school runs, and weekend adventures.
The vehicle now measures approximately 3,850 mm in length.
Moreover, the expanded cargo space in the five-door Jimny is a significant advantage for those who need to carry more gear, whether for camping trips, sports activities, or supermarket runs. The rear seats can be folded down to create a flat load floor, further enhancing its utility.
What are the rivals for the Suzuki Jimny five-door in New Zealand? You can count Jeep’s Renegade and five-door Wrangler and even Subaru’s new Crosstrek.
The 2024 five-door Suzuki Jimny builds on the strengths of its three-door predecessor, adding practicality and versatility without compromising its legendary off-road capability. Its robust platform, compact size, and rugged design make it a unique offering in the subcompact SUV segment, appealing to both urban drivers and adventure seekers.
It has dual camera brake support, climate air con and a 9-in touchscreen display.
Pros:
Enhanced Practicality: The five-door Suzuki Jimny offers significantly improved practicality compared to its three-door counterpart. The additional rear doors provide easier access to the back seats, making it more convenient for passengers to enter and exit the vehicle. This is particularly beneficial for families or those who frequently carry passengers, as it reduces the hassle of folding and sliding front seats to allow access to the rear.
Increased Interior Space: With its extended length, the five-door Jimny provides more legroom for rear passengers and additional cargo space. This makes it a more versatile and comfortable option for longer journeys and daily use, as well as for carrying larger items. The increased space enhances the overall usability of the vehicle, making it a more appealing option for those who need a compact SUV with extra room.
Off-Road Capability: Despite the added length, the five-door Jimny retains the robust off-road capabilities that have made the model famous. Its ladder-frame chassis, part-time four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing, and excellent approach, departure, and breakover angles ensure that it can tackle challenging terrains with ease. The slightly longer wheelbase can even contribute to improved stability on uneven ground, making it a reliable companion for off-road adventures.
The five-door version's slightly longer wheelbase can aid in stability during off-road excursions.
Cons:
Modest Engine Power: While the 1.5-litre is adequate for off-road driving and city use, it can feel underpowered on motorways or when carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The modest engine output may not satisfy those who desire more spirited performance or need to undertake frequent long-distance travel.
On-Road Handling: The Jimny's design, optimised for off-road capability, can make its on-road handling less refined. The vehicle's short wheelbase and tall profile contribute to a bouncy ride and noticeable body roll during cornering. The steering is light but not particularly precise, which can affect confidence during higher-speed driving or on twisty roads. Those who prioritize smooth and stable on-road performance might find Jimny's handling to be a drawback.
Limited Advanced Features: While the Jimny is well-equipped for its intended use, it lacks some of the advanced features and modern technology found in its competitors. The infotainment system and interior tech, while functional, may not match the sophistication and user-friendliness of those in more premium models.
