The Suzuki Jimny has a devoted fan base in South Africa and across the world. This compact off-roader is often lauded for its surprising capability in rough terrain as well as its compact dimensions and cute looks.There is, however, a new Jimny on the way and it will probably land in South Africa in 2019 after it is expected to be revealed later this year.
Its boxy dimensions will largely remain and it is expected to grow in size and Suzuki will retain its body-on-frame construction and 4×4 system which means it will still be very capable in the rough. The Jimny’s on-road handling ability is expected to improve and a major interior revamp is expected too. The interior will likely feature similar styling to the new Swift (due in SA soon) and will incorporate a touchscreen infotainment system.
The new SuzukiJimny will grow in size, but it will retain its boxy styling with major changes expected inside.
The new Jimny is expected to be powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.2-litre petrol engine while top-of-the-range models will feature a Suzuki’s turbocharged 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine with 82 kW and 170 Nm of torque. Based on the fact that Suzuki SA does not offer the Boosterjet engine in the Baleno in South Africa and it’s not expected in the new Swift either, we will be surprised if it makes to our shores in the Jimny, but we hope it does.
The current Jimny is powered by a 63 kW/110 Nm 1.3-litre petrol but we hope the 1.2-litre engine will offer a bit more grunt. A diesel engine option is not expected.
Suzuki is keeping official details under wraps for now but we will keep you updated as soon as more information becomes available.
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