Suzuki Jimny
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| Suzuki Jimny | |
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| Manufacturer: | Suzuki |
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| Production: | 1999– |
| Predecessor: | Suzuki Samurai |
| Class: | Mini SUV |
| Body style: | 2-door SUV 2-door convertible |
The Suzuki Jimny is a mini SUV built by the Japanese manufacturer Suzuki. Two body styles are available: a hard top and convertible. The Jimny replaced the popular Sierra/Samurai model in most markets in 1999, though its predecessor remains in production. The Jimny is equipped with the same 1.3 L 16-valve four-cylinder electronically fuel injected engine as its predecessor. A ladder type chassis and a dual ratio transfer case is standard, unlike many competing compact 4WDs which lack a low range, and are strictly in the crossover SUV category.
The Jimny's vacuum-locking hubs allow the vehicle to be shifted from 2WD to 4WD while travelling at up to 100 km/h (62 mph). Shifting to low range requires the vehicle to be stopped, but there is no need to exit the vehicle. Newer Jimnys feature electronic "push-button" selectable four-wheel drive.
The Jimny features large windows, giving excellent visibility, apart from a rather serious blind spot caused by the oversized "B" pillar. The large amount of glass also creates a greenhouse effect, and the Jimny comes with air conditioning as a standard feature.
Two models of the Jimny are available in some markets, the standard hard top, and a canvas roofed "Cabrio" version. Both models come in JX and JLX specifications. These are fairly standard designations across the Suzuki off road range, with the JLX being the fully-optioned "luxury" version. In the case of the Jimny, the JLX adds roof rails, power steering, power windows, electronically adjustable exterior mirrors, and several interior comfort improvements. Both models are available in 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic gearbox. There is also a 2WD option, only available in 5 speed manual.
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[edit] History
The first vehicle marketed as the Suzuki Jimny (in 1974), is properly known as the LJ50. In Australia, the "Jimny" name was soon dropped. The LJ80 was an updated version, followed by the SJ410 and SJ413. A version of the SJ413 known as the Samurai was released in the US. The series from LJ80 to SJ413 was known as the Sierra in Australia, and remained the Jimny in some markets.
The new Jimny was released in 1999, and now bears the same name in all markets. The 1999 release used the G13BB EFI engine, replaced by the M13AA VVT engine in 2005, in conjunction with some interior redesign.
[edit] Colombia
In Colombia the Jimny is locally produced under license by GM Colmotores, where it is marketed as the Chevrolet Jimny.
[edit] References
- Suzuki's 4x4 History. Off-Road.com. Retrieved on March 2, 2006.
