New Suzuki Jimny JZ a Thoroughly Affordable 4WD

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New Suzuki Jimny Jx a Thoroughly Affordable Four-Wheel-Drive

A new entry-level version of the Suzuki Jimny four-wheel-drive hardtop adds an affordable edge to the Sport Utility Vehicle market.

Despite its modest dimensions, the 1.3-litre three-door Jimny is regarded as a serious off-roader and the arrival of the JX version brings the economical Suzuki within financial reach of more buyers.

The JX is additional to Suzuki's extensive four-wheel-drive range that also includes the higher specification Jimny JLX and Grand Vitara range.

With a recommended retail price of $16,990, the Jimny JX with its 5 speed manual transmission is the least expensive new all-wheel-drive vehicle available in New Zealand.

This compares with $19,990 for more comprehensively specified Jimny JLX 5-speed manual or $21,500 when equipped with the 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

At the same time, the JX revives a Suzuki tradition of offering a compact, versatile vehicle that is just as happy off-road as it is on the highway. The Jimny is also easy to drive and boasts low running costs.

Suzuki pioneered the small, low cost four-wheel-drive vehicle in 1970. This model became the highly successful SJ series which developed into the better-equipped and more sophisticated Jimny.

However, farmers, local bodies, companies and budget-seeking private motorists have asked for a lower specification Jimny which retains the same inbred qualities of the "go anywhere" mini SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle).

Mechanically identical to the JLX model, the JX retains the body colour flared wheel arches and side splash panels of the more expensive Suzuki.

Although inexpensive at $16990, the Jimny JX still has power assisted steering, a three spoke urethane steering wheel, dual front air bags, lights off reminder and key reminder warnings, cup holders, fabric seat trim, reclining front and rear seats and an accessory socket.

Also standard on the thrifty four-wheel drive are halogen headlamps, intermittent wipers, rear wipers with intermittent function, height adjustable front seat belts.

Unlike most "soft" off roaders, the Jimny boasts a separate full-frame chassis, a critical factor in the Suzuki's legendary strength and durability, while also providing mounting points suitable for flat towing behind motorhomes.

It has high/low ratio transfer gears, providing a choice of ten speed ratios and two reverse gear ratios, while the Drive Select transmission allows the driver to shift from two to four wheel drive on the move.

During normal motoring in good conditions, the Jimny is in two-wheel drive, with the drive to the rear wheels.

The Jimny JX is powered by a proven 1.3-litre, double overhead camshaft M13A engine with four valves per cylinder and variable valve timing.

Maximum power of 63 kW is developed at 6,000 rpm and the engine achieves 110 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm.

The Jimny's engine produces low emissions and provides a top speed of 140 km/h. In the official combined fuel cycle that includes both urban and highway operation, the Jimny averages 7.3 litres/100 km (38.7 miles per gallon).

For its compact dimensions and 3,645mm overall length, the Jimny sits on a relatively long 2,250mm wheelbase which helps give the vehicle good interior space.

Split folding rear seats fold forward for extra load carrying space when only the front seats are required for occupants.

In addition to the four-wheel-drive prowess, a high seating position, excellent all round visibility and responsive engine make the Jimny an excellent town and urban vehicle. With its wide opening doors the Jimny is highly regarded for offering great entry and egress.

"Introduction of a lower cost Jimny heralds the return of a classic small Suzuki four wheel drive that offers great value for money," said Tom Peck, General Manager of Marketing for Suzuki New Zealand Ltd.

ENDS

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