India’s leading carmaker, Maruti Suzuki is readying a wide range of new SUVs including a new mid-sized SUV to rival the Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos. The company will also introduce the new Jimny mini off-roader, which will be tweaked for the Indian market. The India-spec model will be a 5-seater SUV, and will rival the Mahindra Thar and the soon-to-be-launched Force Gurkha.
The new 5-door Suzuki Jimny is reportedly to be launched in the Indian market by July 2022. It is based on the ladder-on-frame chassis. The 3-door model is available in a single 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces 100bhp of power and 130Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed torque convertor automatic.
– Longer wheelbase & Length
The India-spec Suzuki Jimny 5 door will be based on the Sierra. It will have 300mm longer wheelbase, which will help in liberating more space inside the cabin. The length of the SUV will be increased by 300mm. Leaked documents reveal that the new Jimny LWB will measure 3,850mm in length, 1,645mm in width and 1,730mm in height. The SUV will have a wheelbase of 2,550mm, while the ground clearance stands at 210mm. It will have a kerb weight of 1190kg, which is 100kgs higher than the 3-door Sierra.
– More Powerful Engine
New media reports claim that the 5-door Jimny will come with a more powerful turbocharged petrol engine. It is likely to get a 1.4-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, which currently powers the international-spec Swift Sport. This engine is currently available as ICE-only powerplant; however, the 2022 Jimny LWB is likely to get a turbo engine with a mild hybrid system.
While powering the Swift Sport, the 1.4L turbo petrol engine produces 127bhp of power and 235Nm of torque. The numbers look okay for a lifestyle SUV measuring under 4 meters in length. This engine with a mild hybrid system should improve its fuel efficiency. It is early to comment whether the India-spec model will get this engine or stick with the existing 100bhp, 1.5L naturally-aspirated engine.
– Design Changes
Suzuki is working on giving a mid-life facelift to the new generation Jimny 3-door. The 5-door Jimny will source the design changes from the 3-door sibling. It is likely to come with a redesigned front grille with a single horizontal slat replacing the current five slot vertical setup. The 5-door Jimny will have an elongated side profile with a provision to add rear passenger doors. The rear profile is also expected to receive changes in terms of design elements; however, the overall looks will remain the same.
– Interior Changes
The 5-door Jimny will come with more modern features like an upgraded touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, and new seats. The biggest change will be made in the second row, where it will have forward facing seats.