2024 Suzuki Jimny Review For The New Zealand Buyer

The Suzuki Jimny stands out in as a compact yet capable off-road SUV, combining genuine 4WD capability with retro-inspired design and affordable pricing. Its ladder-frame construction, part-time four-wheel drive system, and solid axle configuration deliver exceptional off-road performance that rivals much larger SUVs. While excelling as a weekend adventure vehicle and urban runabout, it faces competition from the Suzuki Vitara, Subaru XV, and Mitsubishi ASX in the compact SUV segment.

Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny continues to capture enthusiasts’ hearts as the most affordable genuine off-roader, offering an unmatched combination of capability, character, and value. Its distinctive boxy design appeals to adventure seekers wanting authentic 4WD performance without the bulk and expense of larger SUVs. The Jimny’s proven mechanical simplicity and robust construction make it ideal for those who prioritize reliability and repairability over luxury features. Its compact dimensions make it equally suited to city parking and narrow bush tracks, though it sacrifices interior space and refinement compared to car-based crossovers. While it excels as a specialized adventure vehicle, it competes with the Suzuki Vitara, Subaru XV, Mitsubishi ASX, and Hyundai Kona in the broader compact SUV market.

For those interested in buying the Suzuki Jimny, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

Engine Options

1. R06A 0.66L Turbo I3
2. K15B 1.5L Naturally Aspirated I4
3. K15C 1.5L Mild Hybrid I4
4. G13BB 1.3L NA I4

Transmission Options

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny offers two transmission choices:

  • 5-speed manual transmission (standard)
  • 4-speed automatic transmission (optional)

2024 Suzuki Jimny Grades

  • XG

  • XL

  • XC

  • GL

  • GLX

For a detailed review of these grades and more, kindly refer to the 2024 Suzuki Jimny Buyer’s Guide.

The Suzuki Jimny primarily comes in a compact 3-door SUV body, known for its boxy design and off-road capability. This is the most common version, offering seating for four and foldable rear seats for extra cargo space. There is also a 2-seater commercial variant, which retains the 3-door layout but replaces the rear seats with a flat cargo floor for utility purposes. In 2023, Suzuki introduced a longer 5-door version based on the same platform, offering more passenger space and practicality, particularly aimed at markets like India and Africa.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Interior

Suzuki Jimny

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny interior prioritizes functionality over luxury, reflecting its utilitarian heritage with durable materials and straightforward controls. Hard-wearing plastics dominate the cabin, designed to withstand muddy boots and outdoor gear rather than impress with premium touch. The driver-focused dashboard features clear, easy-to-read gauges including a prominent 4WD indicator that shows the selected drive mode. The upright seating position provides excellent forward visibility for navigating challenging terrain.

The front seats offer adequate comfort for shorter journeys, with manual adjustment and basic lumbar support. The seats are positioned high, contributing to the commanding driving position that aids in off-road navigation. Headroom is generous despite the compact exterior dimensions, accommodating taller occupants comfortably.

Suzuki Jimny

The rear seating area reflects the Jimny’s compact nature, with space best suited for children or occasional adult passengers on short trips. The rear bench seat folds flat to create additional cargo space when needed. The narrow cabin width means three adults across the rear seat is impractical for anything but the shortest journeys.

Storage solutions throughout the cabin are basic but functional, with door pockets, a center console box, and glove compartment providing essential organization. Cup holders and small item storage reflect the vehicle’s practical focus rather than luxury convenience features.

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny addresses modern connectivity needs with a touchscreen infotainment system featuring smartphone integration. Standard equipment includes USB charging ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The system is straightforward to operate, matching the vehicle’s uncomplicated character.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Exterior

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny presents an instantly recognizable design that pays homage to its utilitarian roots while incorporating modern safety and efficiency elements. The front fascia features a bold, upright grille with distinctive round headlights that echo the original Jimny’s character. LED daytime running lights and turn signals provide contemporary functionality while maintaining the retro aesthetic that defines the model.

Suzuki Jimny

The side profile emphasizes the Jimny’s compact yet capable nature with pronounced wheel arches that house generous ground clearance and short overhangs for improved approach and departure angles. The upright greenhouse maximizes interior space and visibility while the contrasting roof option adds visual interest. Robust door handles and body cladding reinforce the adventure-ready appearance.

Suzuki Jimny

The rear design features vertical taillights and a side-hinged rear door with externally mounted spare tire. The rear bumper incorporates functional elements including recovery points and substantial protection for off-road use. The overall proportions maintain the classic Jimny stance while meeting modern safety and pedestrian protection requirements.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Cargo Capacity

Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny offers modest cargo space across its body types. The 3-door model has about 85 litres with the rear seats up and up to 377 litres when folded. The LCV (2-seater) version removes the rear seats entirely, offering a flat load area with around 863 litres of space. The 5-door Jimny provides about 208 litres with the seats up and up to 377 litres folded. While compact, each variant maximizes practicality within its small footprint.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Fuel Consumption

1.5L petrol fuel consumption: 7.8-9.2L/100km

2024 Suzuki Jimny Fuel Tank Capacity

40 liters.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Ground Clearance

210mm (8.3 inches)

2024 Suzuki Jimny Performance

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny features a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder K15B engine producing 102 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque. While modest by modern standards, this output proves adequate for the lightweight Jimny’s intended use, delivering reasonable acceleration for urban driving and sufficient power for off-road adventures. The engine’s naturally aspirated character provides predictable power delivery and simplicity that appeals to enthusiasts who prefer mechanical systems over complex turbocharging.

Suzuki Jimny

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny delivers performance optimized for capability rather than speed, with its true strength lying in off-road situations rather than highway acceleration. The part-time four-wheel drive system with low-range transfer case provides genuine off-road capability that rivals much larger and more expensive SUVs. The solid front and rear axles, combined with impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, enable the Jimny to tackle terrain that would challenge many contemporary SUVs.

The manual transmission provides direct control preferred by off-road enthusiasts, while the optional automatic offers convenience for urban driving. The lightweight construction and short wheelbase contribute to nimble handling on-road and exceptional maneuverability in tight off-road situations.

The 2024 model comes standard with rear-wheel drive for normal driving, with manually selectable four-wheel drive (4H and 4L) for challenging conditions. The system requires stopping to engage, reflecting its part-time nature and mechanical simplicity that ensures reliability in demanding situations.

The 2024 Suzuki Jimny incorporates essential safety features including multiple airbags, ABS with EBA, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and hill descent control. Higher grades feature additional safety technologies including reverse camera and parking sensors.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Reliability

Suzuki’s reputation for mechanical simplicity and robust construction ensures the Jimny’s reliability credentials in demanding conditions. The naturally aspirated engine and proven four-wheel drive system utilize mature technology with minimal complexity, contributing to long-term durability. The ladder-frame construction and solid axles represent time-tested engineering that prioritizes strength over sophistication. Regular maintenance according to manufacturer specifications ensures optimal performance and component longevity, particularly important for vehicles used in challenging off-road conditions.

Suzuki Jimny

2024 Suzuki Jimny Maintenance Schedule

At 5,000 km the 2024 Suzuki Jimny requires engine oil and oil filter change, along with 4WD system inspection. At 10,000 km, comprehensive service including air filter, cabin filter, brake system inspection, tire rotation, differential oil change, and all fluid level checks are required. The 4WD system requires periodic inspection of transfer case and differential oils, particularly important for vehicles used extensively off-road. Regular underbody inspection for damage and corrosion is recommended for off-road use.

For a comprehensive maintenance schedule, refer to the 2024 Suzuki Jimny Owner’s Manual.

2024 Suzuki Jimny Competitors

  • Suzuki Vitara
  • Subaru XV
  • Mitsubishi ASX
  • Hyundai Kona
  • Nissan Juke
  • Ford EcoSport

For those interested in buying the Suzuki Jimny, we have prepared a separate Buyer’s Guide with details on what to look out for when buying a used one and the common pitfalls to avoid. Click here to purchase the Buyer’s Guide.

If you are looking to purchase the Suzuki Jimny, email us directly via info@newzealandmotors.com, and we will get back to you immediately