Maruti Suzuki Jimny: In a world where SUVs seem to be growing in size and price with every new model, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny shows up like a breath of fresh air—compact, charming, and completely unbothered by all the noise. It’s the kind of vehicle that doesn’t just blend in; it proudly does its own thing.
Finally arriving in India in 2023 after years of anticipation, the five-door Jimny has slowly but surely carved out a space for itself, offering a genuine off-road experience in a city-friendly package.
Throwback Looks with Modern Swag
At first glance, the Jimny looks like something straight out of an off-road enthusiast’s scrapbook. It’s got that boxy silhouette, those signature round headlamps, and a sturdy upright posture—all of which nod to old-school 4x4s.
But this isn’t just a retro act. Its bold five-slot grille and flared wheel arches scream adventure, while its design choices are as practical as they are eye-catching.
The squared-off body isn’t for show—it actually helps when navigating tight spots or rugged terrain, giving drivers better visibility of the vehicle’s edges.
And that spare tire bolted onto the tailgate? Not just for aesthetics. It saves space and ensures you’re not stranded in the middle of nowhere if a tire gives out.
Maruti offers the Jimny in seven colors, ranging from conservative shades like Pearl Arctic White and Granite Gray to funkier options like Kinetic Yellow with a contrasting black roof. Whether you’re a weekend trail junkie or just want to stand out in traffic, there’s a shade for you.
Inside the Cabin: Simple, Smart, and Surprisingly Cozy
Step inside and you’re met with an interior that doesn’t try too hard. It’s not flashy, but everything is where it should be.
Big, chunky knobs and switches make you feel like you’re in control—literally—and they’re designed to work even if you’re wearing gloves.
There’s a no-fuss vibe here, but it still packs enough tech to keep modern-day drivers happy.
Front-row seats are surprisingly comfy for long hauls, while the rear seats work best for short trips or smaller passengers.
Need extra cargo space? Fold those rear seats down and you’ve got a decent loading area.
You can even lay the front seats completely flat and turn the cabin into a rest zone—perfect for unwinding after a day on rough terrain.
Tech-wise, it’s not over the top but covers the basics well. A 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, auto climate control, push-button start—it’s all here. The leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls is a nice touch too.
Under the Hood: Built for the Tough Stuff
Powering the Jimny is Maruti’s trusted 1.5-liter K15B petrol engine. It cranks out 103 bhp and 134 Nm of torque—modest on paper, but surprisingly capable thanks to the Jimny’s lightweight build and rugged underpinnings.
You can choose between a 5-speed manual for that raw, connected driving feel, or a 4-speed automatic if you prefer an easier ride in city traffic. Off-roaders will definitely gravitate toward the manual, which offers more control when the going gets tough.
Speaking of tough, the Jimny isn’t pretending to be an SUV—it is one. Built on a ladder-frame chassis with rigid axles and coil springs at all four corners, it’s got serious off-road DNA.
The AllGrip Pro 4×4 system comes with a proper low-range gearbox, which is rare at this price point. Combine that with solid approach and departure angles, and it’s clear this little SUV means business.
Hill hold, hill descent control, and a brake-limited slip differential round out the package, making it user-friendly even for newbies heading off the tarmac.
Real-World Efficiency & Ride Quality
Fuel economy? Not bad. ARAI rates it between 16.39 to 16.94 kmpl, though in the real world, you’re more likely to see numbers in the 9–14 kmpl range depending on how and where you drive.
On city roads, the Jimny feels a bit different from your average crossover. The short wheelbase and tall stance mean you’ll notice some body roll, and the steering isn’t razor-sharp, thanks to its old-school recirculating ball setup. But here’s the twist—these quirks are part of its charm.
It rides surprisingly well over bad roads, shrugging off potholes and bumps with the ease of a seasoned veteran. It’s not cushy, but it’s certainly composed.
And once you take it off-road? That’s where the magic happens. Whether it’s steep inclines, rocky trails, or muddy tracks, the Jimny handles it all with grace.
Its compact size is actually a huge win here—it can squeeze through trails that would have larger 4x4s turning around.
Safety That Keeps Up
Safety isn’t forgotten either. The Jimny packs six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and ISOFIX mounts. There’s also a rearview camera, which comes in handy for tight parking spots or backing up on tricky trails.
Its ladder-frame construction gives it a sturdy base, though it does lack some of the more advanced driver assistance systems we’re starting to see in newer models. Still, for most drivers, the essentials are all there.
Living with the Jimny: A Few Quirks, A Lot of Heart
Owning a Jimny isn’t about having the biggest boot or the fastest acceleration. With the rear seats up, boot space is a bit tight, and overtaking on highways might require a bit of planning—especially with the 4-speed auto.
But these aren’t deal-breakers if you’re the kind of driver who values character and capability over convention.
And let’s not forget, this is a Maruti Suzuki. That means low running costs, reliable service, and a massive support network across India. For adventurers heading to remote places, that’s a huge plus.
Price & Variants: Off-Roading Made Affordable
The Jimny comes in two trims: Zeta and Alpha, both with manual or automatic options. Prices start at ₹12.76 lakh and go up to ₹14.97 lakh (ex-showroom, June 2025).
That’s pretty competitive—especially considering its off-road prowess. And with recent discounts of up to ₹3.3 lakh in some areas, it’s even more tempting.
The Jimny’s Place in the Indian Market
The Jimny isn’t trying to go head-to-head with everyday compact SUVs like the Creta or Seltos. It’s playing a different game.
Its real rivals are the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha, and even then, it brings something unique to the table—its size, global appeal, and no-frills attitude.
In fact, India’s five-door Jimny (branded as the Jimny Nomade in Japan) has racked up over 50,000 bookings overseas. That’s a strong endorsement of just how well this little SUV has been received.
Thunder Edition & Concept Variants: Spicing Things Up
To add more value, Maruti recently rolled out the Thunder Edition, which includes a bundle of cosmetic and functional accessories at a lower cost than buying them separately. It’s a smart move to attract buyers looking for a bit more flair without splurging.
Plus, the Jimny Conqueror Concept, showcased at the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, hints at even more exciting possibilities down the road—think tougher looks and trail-ready add-ons.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny: Final Word: A Vehicle with Soul
Let’s face it: most cars today are built to please everyone and end up feeling like clones of each other. The Jimny? It’s not interested in being a crowd-pleaser. It knows exactly what it is—and that’s its superpower.
It’s not the most spacious, nor the fastest. But it’s got character, heart, and the kind of go-anywhere attitude that makes every drive an adventure.
For people who want something real, something fun, and something that can actually handle the wild stuff, the Jimny fits the bill.
In a world of lookalike SUVs, the Jimny stands tall (and boxy) as a true original.
