The Suzuki Jimny has always been a small traditional 4×4 that has remained true to its shape since the 1970s. However, a recent report from Maruti Suzuki in India, it seems that they might shake things up a bit with a five-door model.
So, what is changing?
We all know the little Jimny, it’s a fun car that has been around for a long time. While the small size does help it with tough terrain, it does limit some of the market appeal. This is something Suzuki looks to change by making a longer 5 door version.
While keeping it within the 4-meter length category, the little Jimny would become more geared to the average buyer. It features an improved passenger space and a larger boot. There was mention of there even being a 2×4 version to make the Jimny more affordable too.
It won’t replace the Jimny we know and love
With the changes, Suzuki may not be calling it a Jimny, which means the 4×4 will keep its identity. The longer 5-door version may be called the Gypsy, a name we have seen Suzuki use before on a Jimny based car.
Don’t cut the ‘Gypsy’ short though, it is expected to feel and perform exactly like a Jimny. Still built to handle offroad and using the same 1.5-liter petrol engine.
It will get more modern technology
In the goal to make it more family and city orientated, features like an infotainment system and automatic air conditioning could be included in this new model.
It may come to our roads
It is unclear if this ‘long’ car will come to South Africa, but it’s not off the cards. If we were to see it, the plans for the production of this car are to start next year, 2021.