Maruti Jimny: The Indian car market has long been waiting for a compact lifestyle SUV that combines rugged charm with affordability. With the arrival of the Maruti Jimny, that demand has been met. Known worldwide as a mini off-roader, the Jimny is now available in India in its five-door avatar, making it practical for families while retaining its adventurous DNA.
Distinctive and Rugged Design
The first thing that stands out about the Jimny is its boxy, retro-inspired styling. Unlike the curvy designs of modern SUVs, the Jimny boasts flat surfaces, squared wheel arches, and a tall stance, giving it a true off-roader’s aura.
The upright grille with five slats, circular LED headlamps, and clamshell bonnet are design cues inspired by older Suzuki off-roaders. Its compact proportions don’t diminish its presence; in fact, they make it instantly recognizable on crowded city streets or hilly terrains.
Functional Yet Modern Interiors
Step inside the Jimny, and you are welcomed by a cabin that prioritizes functionality while offering modern comforts. The dashboard layout is straightforward, ensuring all controls are easily accessible. Yet, Maruti hasn’t compromised on convenience.
A 7-inch or 9-inch SmartPlay infotainment system (depending on the variant) supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Features like automatic climate control, steering-mounted controls, and a good sound system add a premium touch. Despite being compact in size, the five-door configuration ensures decent seating for rear passengers and usable boot space—something the three-door global version lacked for Indian buyers.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Maruti Jimny lies the 1.5-liter K15B petrol engine, producing around 103 bhp and 134 Nm of torque. While these numbers may not sound extraordinary, its lightweight body ensures peppy performance for daily commutes.
The real magic, however, lies in its off-road capability. The Jimny features Suzuki’s proven ALLGRIP Pro 4×4 system, complete with low-range transfer gear. This gives it a significant advantage over typical compact SUVs, making it capable of tackling mud, rocks, river crossings, and steep inclines with ease. Buyers can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox, both tuned for a balance of efficiency and drivability.
Ride Quality and Handling
On regular roads, the Jimny feels planted yet nimble, thanks to its compact size and ladder-frame chassis. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps, making it suitable for Indian road conditions. While the steering is slightly on the heavier side, it provides solid feedback both on highways and off beaten paths.
Its 210 mm ground clearance and short overhangs contribute to excellent approach and departure angles, ensuring the Jimny’s capability is more than just cosmetic.
Safety and Practicality
Maruti has loaded the Jimny with essential safety equipment such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The robust chassis design further adds to occupant safety during rough usage.
Despite its compact footprint, Maruti has smartly packaged the interiors to make it family-friendly. Foldable rear seats allow flexibility in carrying luggage for weekend getaways or outdoor adventures.
Pricing and Market Position
In India, the Jimny is priced between ₹12 lakh and ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a lifestyle SUV competing with models like the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha. While the Thar may offer more power and road presence, the Jimny counters with its practicality, nimbleness, and ease of use in urban conditions.
Maruti Jimny Final Thoughts
The Maruti Jimny is more than just another compact SUV—it’s a lifestyle statement for those who want adventure without sacrificing practicality. With its rugged design, dependable 4×4 system, and affordable pricing compared to larger off-roaders, the Jimny has carved a unique niche for itself. For families and enthusiasts alike, it blends daily usability with weekend thrill, making it one of the most exciting additions to India’s SUV landscape.