Expert & Owner Reviews
Suzuki Jimny Reviewed
In-depth analysis of the GJ/HJ Jimny's real-world performance, capability, efficiency and value — grounded in verified specifications and owner experience.
2024 Model Year · Current Generation (GJ/HJ)
The Little Legend That Takes on Everything
The current-generation Suzuki Jimny (2018–present) remains one of the most capable compact off-roaders on the market. With a ladder-frame chassis, three-link rigid axles and a part-time 4WD system with selectable low-range, it punches far above its diminutive footprint. Here's everything the numbers and trail experience reveal.
Review Verdicts by Category
We break the Jimny's performance down across four key areas every buyer cares about.
Off-Road Capability
With 210 mm of ground clearance, a 4.9 m turning radius, and a low-range transfer case, the Jimny tackles terrain far larger 4WDs struggle with. Three-link rigid axles deliver class-leading articulation. Its compact dimensions — just 3,645 mm long — make it nimble through tight tracks and rock sections.
Verdict: Exceptional
Engine & Drivetrain
The 1.5 L K15B naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces 75 kW and 130 Nm. It's not quick — 0–100 km/h takes around 12 seconds — but it's the right engine for this vehicle: torquey enough low down, light on fuel at 6.4 L/100 km (manual), and bulletproof in reliability. Paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.
Verdict: Fit for Purpose
Practicality & Daily Use
Boot space is tight at 85 L seats-up (377 L folded) in the 3-door, though the 5-door XL improves this to 211 L. The 40 L fuel tank and 6.4 L/100 km economy give a theoretical range of around 625 km. Highway noise is noticeable, and rear-seat legroom is cramped — honest compromises for such a compact ladder-frame platform.
Verdict: Acceptable Compromise
Value for Money
In Australia the Jimny starts from $30,490 (Lite manual) to $33,490 (GLX auto). It includes a 5-year/unlimited-km warranty, with capped servicing for the first 5 years or 100,000 km at intervals of 12 months or 15,000 km. Few rivals offer this level of off-road hardware at the price point.
Verdict: Strong Value
Key Specifications at a Glance
The figures that define the 2024 Suzuki Jimny's character, drawn from official data.
Ground Clearance
210 mm
Best-in-class for the segment
Fuel Economy
6.4 L/100
Manual combined cycle
Safety Rating
3-Star
ANCAP / Euro NCAP 2018
Tank Range
~625 km
Estimated, 40 L tank, manual
Safety & Standard Equipment
The 2024 Jimny earned a 3-star ANCAP rating based on Euro NCAP 2018 testing, with adult occupant protection at 73% and child protection at 84%. Every variant ships with autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, ABS, driver fatigue alert, and front, front-side and curtain airbags — a solid active and passive safety package at this price point.
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Lane-Departure Warning
- ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
- Front, front-side & curtain airbags
- Driver Fatigue Alert system
What Owners Say
Recurring themes from the Jimny owner community across global forums and owner groups.
I've taken mine on tracks that stopped full-size 4WDs. The low-range is a game-changer — it's the most capable small off-roader I've owned, full stop.
Jimny 3-door owner, Australian owner forum
Fuel economy is genuinely impressive for a 4WD. I average around 7 L/100 km on mixed driving. The 625 km tank range means I rarely think about filling up on long trips.
GLX manual owner, New Zealand
Yes, it's small and the boot is cramped. But that's the whole point — it fits where nothing else does, it's cheap to run, and the 5-year warranty gives real peace of mind.
5-door XL owner, European community
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