){kind=link}
Suzuki Jimny 5 Door Australia
For decades, the Suzuki Jimny has captured the hearts of off-road enthusiasts in Australia. Its boxy silhouette, rugged construction, and legendary capability have made it a symbol of adventure, conquering trails where larger, posher SUVs wouldn't dare tread. But the Jimny has always had a practicality problem – its three-door layout made it less than ideal for families or those who needed to carry more gear.
Enter the Suzuki Jimny XL 5-Door, a variant that has finally arrived on Australian shores after years of anticipation. This isn't just a Jimny with an extra set of doors; it's a thoughtful evolution that addresses the limitations of its predecessor while staying true to the Jimny's core strengths.
More Than Just Doors: Expanding the Jimny's Horizons
The most obvious change is, of course, the addition of two rear doors. This makes ingress and egress for rear passengers significantly easier, a boon for families with young children or those who regularly transport passengers. The extra wheelbase (an additional 340mm) translates to a more spacious cabin, particularly noticeable in the rear legroom. While not palatial by any means, the XL offers a noticeable improvement over the three-door, making it a more viable option for those who require a touch more practicality.
The cargo space also benefits from the stretched wheelbase. With the rear seats upright, you get 211 litres of cargo capacity, a significant jump from the 85 litres of the three-door. Fold the seats down, and you'll have a maximum of 1113 litres, making the Jimny XL a surprisingly capable weekend getaway companion.
Classic Jimny DNA with Modern Touches
Despite the added practicality, the Jimny XL retains the iconic boxy design that has made it so recognizable. The short overhangs, generous ground clearance, and upright stance all scream off-road prowess. The interior, while basic, boasts a level of refinement not seen in previous Jimny iterations. The 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provides a welcome touch of modernity, while features like automatic LED headlights, digital climate control, and a reverse camera add a layer of convenience.
However, the Jimny XL doesn't forget its utilitarian roots. The interior materials are designed to be easily wipeable, ideal for those who plan on getting the vehicle dirty. The buttons and dials are large and easy to operate, even with gloves on. Overall, the interior feels well-suited for its intended purpose – tackling the great outdoors.
Off-Road Prowess: Still the King of the Hill
The Jimny XL's true strength lies in its off-road capability. Under the hood sits the familiar 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 75kW and 134Nm of torque. While not the most powerful engine on the market, it's perfectly suited for the Jimny's lightweight construction. The part-time 4WD system with low-range gearing and a selectable transfer case ensures you can conquer even the most challenging terrain.
The Jimny XL retains the excellent approach, departure, and breakover angles of its three-door sibling, allowing it to navigate steep inclines and declines with ease. The short wheelbase also contributes to its impressive maneuverability, allowing you to navigate tight trails with confidence.
On-Road Manners: A Capable Compromise
The Jimny XL isn't designed to be a highway cruiser. Its boxy shape and short wheelbase can lead to some wind noise at higher speeds, and the ride can be a bit on the firm side. However, for short commutes or navigating around town, the Jimny XL is surprisingly pleasant to drive. The light steering makes navigating tight city streets a breeze, and the high seating position provides excellent visibility.
The 5-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, offering a precise and engaging driving experience. The optional 4-speed automatic transmission might be a better choice for those who prioritize comfort over driver engagement.
Fuel Efficiency: A Frugal Adventurer
One of the Jimny XL's biggest strengths is its fuel efficiency. The manual variant boasts a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 6.4L/100km, while the automatic comes in at 6.9L/100km. These figures are impressive for an off-road vehicle and make the Jimny XL a cost-effective choice for adventure seekers.
The Verdict: A Worthy Evolution for a Legendary Off-Roader
The Suzuki Jimny XL 5-Door isn't a radical departure from the classic Jimny formula. It retains the off-road prowess, rugged construction, and charming boxy design that has made the Jimny XL retains the off-road prowess, rugged construction, and charming boxy design that has made the Jimny a legend. However, it cleverly addresses the practicality limitations of its predecessor, making it a more compelling option for a wider range of buyers. The added space, modern touches, and excellent fuel efficiency make the Jimny XL a well-rounded package for those who crave adventure without sacrificing everyday usability.
Who is the Jimny XL For?
The Jimny XL is a niche vehicle that won't be for everyone. However, it's the perfect choice for:
- Adventure Seekers: For those who crave exploring off the beaten path, the Jimny XL's legendary off-road capability makes it an ideal companion.
- Active Families: With the added space and practicality, the Jimny XL can now handle weekend getaways and outdoor adventures with the whole family.
- City Dwellers with a Twist: The Jimny XL's compact size and maneuverability make it a great choice for navigating tight city streets. However, its off-road capability allows you to escape the urban jungle whenever the urge strikes.
- Budget-Minded Adventurers: The Jimny XL offers exceptional value for money, with impressive fuel efficiency and a starting price (from $34,990 plus on-road costs) that's significantly lower than most off-road SUVs.
Some Considerations Before You Buy
Before you rush out and buy a Jimny XL, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Limited On-Road Comfort: While surprisingly pleasant for short commutes, the Jimny XL isn't designed for long highway journeys. The ride can be firm, and wind noise can be noticeable at higher speeds.
- Limited Cargo Space (Compared to Larger SUVs): While the additional space is a welcome improvement, the Jimny XL still offers less cargo space than most traditional SUVs.
- No Modern Driver Assist Features: The Jimny XL prioritizes simplicity and affordability. Features like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring are not available.
The Final Word: A Modern Classic
The Suzuki Jimny XL 5-Door is a breath of fresh air in a market dominated by ever-larger and more luxurious SUVs. It stays true to the Jimny's core strengths while cleverly addressing its limitations. The result is a vehicle that is as capable off-road as ever, but now offers more practicality and comfort for everyday use. The Jimny XL is a modern classic, a worthy evolution of a legendary off-roader, and a compelling option for those who crave adventure without sacrificing affordability.