Maruti Suzuki Jimny: The Compact Off-Roader That Packs a Punch
When we talk about off-road vehicles in India, a few names instantly come to mind — but none combine compact design, rugged performance, and everyday usability quite like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. After years of global anticipation, Maruti Suzuki finally brought the Jimny to India, and it has quickly become one of the most talked-about compact SUVs on the market. Let’s dive deep into what makes the Jimny such a special machine.
A Heritage of Toughness
The Jimny is not just another SUV; it’s a legend that has been around since 1970. Over the decades, Suzuki has refined this model to offer the perfect balance between compactness and capability. The Indian version of the Jimny, introduced in 2023, is a five-door version of the globally loved three-door model. It retains the DNA of its predecessors — lightweight, boxy, and built to conquer rough terrains.
The design stays true to its off-road heritage with round LED headlamps, a five-slot grille, and chunky wheel arches that instantly signal its rugged character. Yet, it has been modernized with subtle touches that make it appealing even for urban drivers.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny is powered by a 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine that produces 105 PS of power and 134.2 Nm of torque. While these figures may not sound huge, they are perfectly suited for the Jimny’s lightweight frame and all-terrain focus.
You can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The SUV features Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4×4 system, which comes with a low-range transfer gear (4L mode). This makes the Jimny more than capable of handling rocky hills, muddy paths, and sandy tracks with ease.
In short, the Jimny may look small, but it has the heart of a true off-roader.
Ride and Handling
Thanks to its ladder-frame chassis, the Jimny offers a level of ruggedness that monocoque SUVs can only dream of. It’s designed for adventure, with an approach angle of 36 degrees, ramp break-over angle of 24 degrees, and departure angle of 50 degrees. These figures make it one of the most off-road-capable vehicles in its segment.
On city roads, the Jimny feels nimble and compact — perfect for tight spaces and traffic. Its steering is light, visibility is great due to its tall stance, and parking is surprisingly easy for an SUV. However, being a pure off-roader, the ride can feel a bit firm on rough city roads, especially at high speeds.
Interior and Comfort
You get a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, climate control, steering-mounted controls, and push-button start.
Seating comfort is quite good for four adults, and the tall roof offers ample headroom. The five-door design has added much-needed practicality, especially for rear passengers, compared to the earlier three-door model.
Safety and Features
The Jimny is equipped with several safety features including:
6 Airbags
ABS with EBD
Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control
ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Rear Parking Camera
These features ensure peace of mind whether you’re driving in the city or exploring off-beat mountain trails.
Mileage and Pricing
The Jimny offers an ARAI-certified mileage of around 16.9 km/l (manual) and 16.3 km/l (automatic) — which is quite decent for a 4×4 SUV.
As for pricing, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny starts at around ₹12.74 lakh and goes up to ₹14.95 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in two variants — Zeta and Alpha, with multiple color options including the signature Kinetic Yellow that gives it a bold, adventure-ready look.
Who Should Buy the Jimny?
If you’re someone who loves weekend adventures, off-roading, or simply wants a car that stands out from the crowd — the Jimny is for you. It’s not the fastest or most luxurious SUV out there, but it’s authentic, capable, and full of character.
Unlike many modern SUVs that only “look” rugged, the Jimny actually lives up to the off-road promise.
Final Verdict
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny brings something unique to the Indian market — a compact, go-anywhere SUV with genuine 4×4 DNA. It’s practical enough for city life, adventurous enough for mountain trails, and stylish enough to turn heads wherever it goes.
In a world of oversized, tech-heavy SUVs, the Jimny is refreshingly simple, solid, and soulful — a perfect blend of retro charm and modern performance.