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Suzuki Jimny

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Suzuki Jimny
1998–present Suzuki Jimny
Overview
ManufacturerSuzuki
ProductionApril 1970–present
Body and chassis
ClassOff-road mini SUV
Body style2-door wagon
2-door van
2-door convertible
RelatedSuzuki Escudo
Maruti Gypsy
Chronology
PredecessorHopeStar ON360

The Suzuki Jimny is a line of off-road mini SUVs made by the Japanese automaker Suzuki produced since April 1970.

History

The history of Suzuki four-wheel-drive cars dates to 1968. Suzuki bought former Japanese automaker Hope Motor Company which had introduced fifteen small off-road vehicles called the HopeStar ON360. The first Suzuki-branded 4-wheel drive, the LJ10 (Light Jeep 10), was introduced in 1970. The LJ10 had a 359 cc air-cooled, two-stroke, in-line two-cylinder engine. The liquid-cooled LJ20 was introduced in 1972 with the cooling changed due to newly enacted emission regulations, and it gained 3 hp. In 1975, Suzuki complemented the LJ20 with the LJ50, which had a larger 539 cc, two-stroke, in-line three-cylinder engine and bigger differentials. This was originally targeted at the Australian market, but more exports soon followed.[1]

The Jimny8/LJ80 was an updated version of the LJ50 with an 800 cc, four-stroke, in-line four-cylinder engine, followed by the Jimny 1000/SJ410 and Jimny 1300/SJ413. An updated version of the SJ413 became known as the Samurai and was the first Suzuki officially marketed in the US. The series from SJ410 to SJ413 was known as the Sierra in Australia, and remained the Jimny in some markets.

The new Jimny was released in 1998, and now bears the same name in all markets. The 1998 release used the G13BB EFI engine, replaced by the M13AA EFI engine in 2001 and the M13AA VVT engine in 2005, in conjunction with a minor interior redesign.

HopeStar ON360

The vehicle was originally developed by the Hope Motor Company of Japan in 1967 and sold as the HopeStar ON360 from April 1968. It used a Mitsubishi 359 cc (21.9 cu in) air-cooled 2-stroke ME24 engine which produced 21 PS (15.4 kW). The rear axle was sourced from the Mitsubishi Colt 1000 and wheels were sourced from the Mitsubishi Jeep. It was a very basic two-seater vehicle with no doors, but a sturdy four-wheel drive system allowed it to go off-road. Top speed was 70 km/h (43 mph), 30 km/h in 4WD mode. The tiny Hope company sold very few ON360s, possibly as few as fifteen, although 100 ME24 engines were purchased[2][3]) and sold the design to Suzuki in 1968, after Mitsubishi declined to take over production.

First generation (1970–1981)

First generation (LJ10-SJ20)
Overview
Also calledSuzuki LJ80
Suzuki Eljot (Germany)
Suzuki Stockman (Australia) [4]
Production1970–1981
Body and chassis
Classmini SUV
Body style2-door wagon
2-door convertible
2-door cab chassis [4]
Powertrain
Engine359 cc (0.4 L) FB/L50 I2
539 cc (0.5 L) LJ50 I3
797 cc (0.8 L) F8A I4
Transmission4-speed manual
Chronology
PredecessorHopeStar ON360

The compact off-road capable Suzuki Jimny was Suzuki's first global success, lending it name recognition and a foothold in markets worldwide. The Jimny slotted into a hitherto unfilled gap in the market.

LJ10

1979 Suzuki Jimny hardtop

Suzuki's first move on acquiring the rights to the ON360 was rebodying it and replacing the Mitsubishi engine with an air-cooled 359 cc (21.9 cu in) Suzuki "FB" two-cylinder two-stroke which produced 25 PS (18 kW). Since the new unit remained smaller than 360 cc, and Suzuki placed the spare tire inside the truck (making it a three-seater) to keep it under 3 meters in overall length, it was classified as a kei car, conferring certain tax privileges and other benefits. When it was introduced in April 1970 it was the first four-wheel drive kei car to enter series production. The LJ10 Jimnys had sixteen-inch wheels, weighed 590 kg (1,301 lb), and had a top speed of 75 km/h (47 mph). The engine was soon uprated to a 27 PS (20 kW) version, but the claimed top speed remained unchanged.[5]

LJ20

The LJ was updated in May 1972 and renamed the LJ20. The grille bars were changed from horizontal to vertical for the LJ20. The engine was replaced with an updated, water-cooled unit (the L50), and its 28 PS (21 kW) enabled the LJ to reach 80 km/h (50 mph).[6] A special version with the spare tire mounted behind the passenger seat allowed for two small rear seats, facing each other. The introduction of left hand drive signalled Suzuki's worldwide ambitions for the truck. The Hard Top (Van) was also introduced when the LJ20 arrived, equipped with smaller, 15 inch wheels.[5] Suzuki themselves did not export them to America, a US company called IEC (International Equipment Co.) imported them. Export Jimnys had the spare tire mounted on the outside, as Kei regulations on length did not apply.

Suzuki Jimny LJ20 (1973), note spare tire placement

Towards the end of LJ20 production, a cleaner 26 PS (19 kW) engine was introduced, a result of ever more stringent emissions regulations. Top speed was reported as 93 km/h (58 mph), payload was 250 kg or 550 lb (200 kg or 440 lb for the Van version).[7]

SJ10

Suzuki Jimny 55 (SJ10)

The LJ50 engine was first introduced in September 1975 for export only, with 33 PS (24 kW). For the home market, it first appeared in June 1976 as the Jimny 55 and reflected the changing kei car rules and stricter emissions standards. The 539 cc (32.9 cu in) three-cylinder engine remained a two-stroke; while power was reduced to 26 PS (19 kW) more low-end torque was on offer. The 635 kg (1,400 lb) vehicle could now hit 60 mph (97 km/h), and the spare tire was relocated outside the rear door, allowing for a fourth seat. The SJ10 Jimny used the "LJ50" name in most export markets.

In Australia the LJ50S and LJ50V (van) were available as a softtop with soft doors and rear-mounted spare wheel or hardtop with full metal doors and external spare wheel through distributor M.W.-Suzuki (Melbourne) with 33 hp (25 kW) and 5.85 kgf⋅m (57.4 N⋅m; 42.3 lbf⋅ft) of torque. In May 1976, the low production LJ51P long wheelbase pickup became available for some export markets. The home market Jimny 550 received a facelift in 1977, introducing rear wheel arch metal flares and a bigger bonnet or hood with cooling slots above the radiator, while the export model LJ50s were instead replaced by the LJ80 (same external modifications but with the new four-stroke four-cylinder 800 cc engine fitted).

SJ20

The final iteration of the original Jimny design was the 1977 Jimny 8, called LJ80 in certain export markets. It was originally intended to be marketed as the Eljot ("Elliott") in Germany, but copyright issues with Disney's Pete's Dragon movie made this impossible. While the SJ10 remained in production for the domestic Kei category, the new 1700 lb (770 kg) SJ20 boasted a 797 cc (48 cu in) four-stroke SOHC four-cylinder F8A engine capable of around 41 hp (31 kW). The additional power and torque of this engine allowed the differential and gearing to be raised for better cruising and offroad performance, and the track was widened by 4 in (100 mm).

The interior was also improved, with new seats and steering wheel. Metal doors became available for the first time in 1979, and a pickup truck model (LJ81) was available by April of that year as well. The pickup, called "Stockman" in Australia, had a 2200 mm wheelbase (up by 270 mm) and was 3,620 mm (143 in) long, compared to the 3185 mm LJ80. The Jimny 8/LJ80 was retired in late 1981 with the introduction of the second-generation Jimny.

Second generation (1981–1998)

Second generation (SJ30/SJ40/JA/JB)
Overview
Also calledChevrolet Samurai
Holden Drover
Maruti Gypsy
Santana Samurai
Suzuki Caribian
Suzuki Katana
Suzuki Potohar
Suzuki SJ410/413
Suzuki Samurai
Suzuki Santana
Suzuki Sierra
Production1981–1998
AssemblyIwata, Japan
Gurgaon, India
Bekasi, Indonesia
Bangkok, Thailand
Nairobi, Kenya
Bogotá, Colombia (GM Colombia)
Linares, Spain (Santana Motor)
Body and chassis
ClassOff-road mini SUV
Body style2-door wagon
2-door van
2-door convertible
2-door pickup [8]
2-door cab chassis [9]
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine539 cc LJ50 2-stroke I3
547 cc F5A I3
657 cc F6A I3
658 cc K6A I3
970 cc F10A I4
1298 cc G13BA/G13BB I4
1324 cc G13A I4
1905 cc XUD 9 TD I4 (Santana)
Transmission4/5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,030 mm (80 in)
2,375 mm (94 in) (LWB)
Length3,195–4,010 mm (126–158 in)
Width1,395–1,535 mm (55–60 in)
Height1,670–1,840 mm (66–72 in)
Chronology
SuccessorSuzuki Jimny JA12/22, JB32
Suzuki Sidekick (Canada)
Suzuki X-90 (United States)

The Suzuki SJ30 began production in May 1981 in Hamamatsu,[citation needed] Japan. In Japan, it was sold as the Suzuki Jimny and was a kei car, produced with both 550 cc and 660 cc 3-cylinder engines. The SJ-Series received a bigger engine and was lengthened and widened for export purposes, where it was sold with a multitude of names: Suzuki SJ410/413, Suzuki Samurai, Suzuki Sierra, Suzuki Potohar (Pakistan), Suzuki Caribian (Thailand), Suzuki Katana (Indonesia), Chevrolet Samurai, Holden Drover (Australia) and Maruti Gypsy (India).

SJ30

The SJ30 Jimny 550 was mainly for Japanese domestic market consumption where it suited the Kei car category. Still powered by the LJ50 engine also used in its predecessor, the Jimny 550 was by a sizable margin the last two-stroke engine built in Japan. Production ended with the withdrawal of type approval in November 1987 in favor of its F5A-engined brother, the JA71. The two-stroke had been favored by Japanese off-roaders (and by Suzuki) due to its superior torque.

SJ40

Suzuki SJ410 - Note the Jeep badge added by the owner on the "B" pillar
Holden Drover cab chassis (QB, Australia)

The SJ40 Jimny 1000 was introduced for 1982 to replace the LJ80 range. The Jimny 1000, sold as the Suzuki SJ410 in most export markets, used the F10A - a larger 1 litre version of the LJ's 0.8 liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produced 45 hp (34 kW) and it had a top speed of 68 mph (109 km/h). The Japanese market models claimed 52 hp (39 kW) at 5,000 rpm.[10]

A four-speed manual transmission was standard, as were non-power assisted drum brakes front and rear. The SJ410 came as a half-door convertible, long-wheelbase pickup truck, two-door hardtop (called "Van" in Japan), raised-roof hardtop, and no-glass hardtop (panel van). In Japan, the pickup truck was intended as a bare-bones work vehicle and did not receive fender extensions, and had diagonal tires on black-painted steel wheels rather than the sportier wheels fitted to the regular Jimny. Maximum payload is 350 kg (770 lb).[10] Later, a covered long-wheelbase version was added for export markets.

The SJ410 was also produced in Spain by Santana Motors in their Linares, Jaén factory as of March 1985 and was sold as a domestic vehicle in Europe due to its over 60% native parts content, thereby evading limits on imports of Japanese-built automobiles.[11] It was built only on the short wheelbase, as a two-door convertible and commercial, or with the three door wagon or van bodywork. Some later models of the SJ410 would switch to disk brakes in the front depending on the factory they were made at. In March 1990, Santana-built versions received the same chassis developments which turned the SJ413 into the Samurai; this version was sold as Samurai 1.0 where it was offered ("Samurai Mil" in Spain).[12] Cooper Motor Corporation (CMC) of Nairobi, Kenya, also assembled the SJ410 in the mid-eighties.[13]

Maruti Gypsy

Maruti Gypsy
Main article: Maruti Gypsy

This Indian built SJ-410 has only ever been available in a long-wheelbase version. The Gypsy remains in production for the Indian Subcontinent market. The version still produced in India by Maruti-Suzuki is the Maruti Gypsy King, using the sixteen valve, 80 hp (60 kW) 1.3 liter G13 engine. The Gypsy King has proved popular with the Indian armed forces and police units.

Farm Worker 4x4

In 2013 Suzuki New Zealand reintroduced the Suzuki SJ series into New Zealand badged as the Suzuki Farm Worker 4x4,[14] although the Maruti badge can clearly be seen in the centre of the radiator grille. The vehicle is actually the leaf-sprung Suzuki Maruti Gypsy King MG413W, powered by the G13BB 1.3 litre 16 valve engine, producing 80 hp (60 kW) at 6000 rpm and 103 N⋅m (76 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4500 rpm, mated to a five-speed, all synchromesh gearbox and a high/low 2wd/4wd transfer box. The Farm Worker is available in four slightly differing styles, two having a rear window and fibreglass bulkhead, and two having canvas roofs with foldable front windscreens, all based on the lwb platform and offering a maximum payload of 500 kg. As its name suggests the Farm Worker is intended for farm work only and is not able to be road registered due to the vehicle not meeting current crash protection regulations, although it does come with seat belts for the front two seats.

SJ413/Samurai

JA51 Jimny 1300

In 1984, the SJ was revamped with the launch of the SJ413 (internal model code JA51). The SJ413 included a larger 1.3 liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission and power brakes (disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear) all around. The body and interior were also redesigned, with a new dashboard, seats, and grille. The SJ410 remained in production for various other markets with the old specifications.

North American market

Suzuki Samurai (North America-spec)

The SJ-Series was introduced to the United States (Puerto Rico (SJ-410) and Canada earlier) in 1985 for the 1986 model year. It was priced at $6200 and 47,000 were sold in its first year. The Samurai had a 1.3 liter, 63 hp (47 kW), 4-cylinder engine and was available as a convertible or a hardtop, and with or without a rear seat. The Suzuki Samurai became intensely popular within the serious 4WD community for its good off road performance and reliability compared to other 4WDs of the time. This is due to the fact that while very compact and light, it is a real 4WD vehicle equipped with a transfer case, switchable 4WD and low range. Its lightness makes it a very nimble off-roader less prone to sinking in softer ground than heavier types. It is also considered a great beginner off-roader due to its simple design and ease of engine and suspension modifications.

The 1988.5 model Samurai was re-tuned for better on-road use in the United States. This revision included softer suspension settings and a larger anti-sway bar to reduce body roll. A lower 5th gear (.865:1 vs the earlier .795:1) increased engine rpm and power on the highway, and improved dashboard and seats made the Samurai more comfortable.

A new 1.3 liter four-cylinder engine with throttle-body fuel injection was introduced with 66 hp (49 kW) in September 1991.[12] The Samurai was supplemented in Canada and the United States markets in 1989 by the Suzuki Sidekick, which eventually replaced the Samurai in 1995. The rear seat was removed from 1994 and 1995 Samurai models with rear shoulder safety belts becoming mandatory, and the partial roll cage not having the required mounting provisions, unlike the larger Jeep Wrangler. Low sales and pending stricter safety legislation prompted the withdrawal of the Samurai from Canada and the United States markets after 1995.

Consumers Union lawsuit
Main article: Suzuki Motor Corp. v. Consumers Union of the U.S., Inc.

An unfavorable 1988 review in Consumer Reports magazine said the Samurai was unsafe and prone to rollovers.[15] In 1996, after investigating the CU's claims, Suzuki of North America sued the magazine's publisher, Consumers Union (CU), for libel. The suit resulted in an inconclusive settlement. CU agreed that it "never intended to imply that the Samurai easily rolls over in routine driving conditions."[16] CU and Suzuki made a joint statement, saying, "CU and Suzuki disagree with respect to the validity" of CU's tests and that "Suzuki disputes the validity" of the tests, while "CU stands by its test protocol and findings."[17]

Other Markets

Late Euro-spec Samurai

The SJ413/Samurai had a longer history in the rest of the world. Australian market JA51s were sold as either Suzuki Sierra or Holden Drover, while those built in Thailand are called Suzuki Caribian. The Caribian has also been available as the "Caribian Sporty", a unique LWB double cab pickup.

Due to various trade obstacles for Japanese cars, Spanish Santana Motors (in addition to the SJ410) began local production of the SJ413 in 1986.[11] The Santana built SJs had softer springs for an improved on-road ride, color coordinated interiors with cloth seats and carpeted floors, all to broaden appeal to those who did not intend to off-road the vehicle.[18] In 1989 it received some optical as well as chassis updates and received the "Samurai" nameplate. Santana built Samurais did not benefit from the updated coil sprung chassis introduced in 1998, instead receiving a facelift (new grille, more rounded bumpers) specific to European and neighboring markets. Around the same time, Santana also developed a version which used PSA's XUD 9 1.9-litre turbodiesel, producing 63 hp (47 kW).[19] Top speed was 130 km/h.[20] Spanish Samurai production ended in 2003.

Facelifted Indonesian market "Suzuki Katana", built by Suzuki Indomobil Motor until 2005

The Samurai was sold in Colombia and Venezuela as Chevrolet Samurai, assembled in Bogotá, Colombia by General Motors Colmotores. In other South American markets (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Paraguay and Uruguay) it was sold as the Suzuki Samurai. Long wheelbase models were not offered in the Mercosur.

In Asia the SJ/Samurai was sold under a few different names. In Thailand it was called the Suzuki Caribian. The Thai market also received a special version called the "Suzuki Caribian Sporty", a pickup with an extended cab with a small rear seat best suited for occasional use.

The SJ410 was also assembled in Indonesia by Suzuki Indomobil Motor, where it was marketed with different names. The original version is marketed as Jimny, continuing the previous LJ Jimny. The canvas soft-top model was marketed as Sierra. In the late 1980s, Suzuki introduced 4x2 version as the Katana. Later Katanas & Jimnys received square headlights. The Katana was also, surprisingly, used as a basis for an Indonesian-built, 1930s' style kit-car called the Marvia Classic.[21] In 2005, Suzuki introduced the SJ413 Caribian spacecab pickup, which was imported from Thailand. Production of the second-generation Jimny (Katana) in Indonesia ended in 2005.

High altitude world record

The modified vehicle used in the expedition.

On April 21, 2007, the Chilean duo of Gonzalo Bravo and Eduardo Canales drove their modified Suzuki Samurai (SJ413) up Ojos del Salado, past the previous record set by a Jeep at 6,646 meters (21,804 ft), setting a new record for the highest altitude attained by a four-wheeled vehicle at 6,688 meters (21,942 ft).

The Samurai in question benefitted from wheel, tire, and suspension changes, and a supercharged G16A 4-cylinder underhood. It was the third attempt for the two man team, after encountering weather difficulties on the first attempt and an engine fire in the second. The previous record holder's team led by Matthias Jeschke driving a Jeep Wrangler, left a sign reading "Jeep Parking Only: All others don't make it up here anyway". The Chilean team found the sign, blown down by strong winds, and brought it back to civilization as a souvenir.

This record was duly certified by the Guinness World Record in July 2007.

Kei history

Suzuki Jimny JA71 series

In January 1986 the JA71, a four-stroke, turbocharged and fuel-injected (F5A) 543 cc three-cylinder engine was introduced to complement the two-stroke SJ30. It used the upgraded interior from the Jimny 1300, which was simultaneously introduced to the SJ30. Power was 42 PS (31 kW), although this was increased to 52 PS (38 kW) in a November 1987 facelift by adding an intercooler. A non-intercooled, 38 PS (28 kW) engine was offered in the lowest spec Van version. At the same time, a glassed high-roof version ("Panoramic Roof") was added.[22]

660 cc Era

The JA71 was replaced in March 1990 by the new JA11 as new Kei category regulations took effect. Now with 657 cc on offer, the otherwise similar F6A engine only came with an intercooler and 55 PS (40 kW). A utilitarian van (HA), as well as more luxurious Hardtop, Convertible, and Panoramic Roof (HC, CC, EC) versions were on offer.[23] The suspension was also upgraded, while a longer front bumper meant that the foglights could be mounted in front of the grille rather than in it. In June 1991, power was increased to 58 PS (43 kW) and a year later power steering and automatic transmission became available for the first time. Top speed of this version was 120 km/h (75 mph).[12] In February 1995 power increased to 64 PS (47 kW), but production of the JA11 ended only nine months later with the introduction of the coil sprung JA12/22.

Coilspring version

Second generation (JA12/JA22/JB32)
Suzuki Jimny JA12W series
Overview
Production1995–1998
AssemblyIwata, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassOff-road mini SUV
Body style2-door wagon
2-door convertible
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine657 cc (0.7 L) F6A I3
658 cc (0.7 L) K6A I3
1,298 cc (1.3 L) G13BA/G13BB I4
Transmission5-speed manual
3-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,030 mm (80 in)
Length3,295–3,430 mm (129.7–135.0 in)[24]
Width1,395–1,550 mm (54.9–61.0 in)
Height1,670–1,825 mm (65.7–71.9 in)
Chronology
PredecessorSuzuki SJ series

The Samurai continued for sale outside the United States (where the newer version is referred to as the 'Coily'), with a substantial update in November 1995. This included a coil spring suspension, though the live axles were retained. The rest of the truck was redesigned as well, with new seats, dashboard, steering wheel, and doors joining a more "macho" exterior.

The JA12 used the 657 cc F6A from the JA11 three-cylinder while the JA22 received the newly developed and more powerful K6A - although to abide by the Kei Jidosha regulations claimed output was 64 hp (48 kW) for both engines. The JB32 received the larger 85 hp (63 kW), 1.3 litre G13BB 16-valve engine was slightly longer and wider due to bigger bumpers and fenders. This was the model seen in most export markets, although abroad it was usually equipped with the eight-valve, 70 hp (52 kW) G13BA engine instead.

Not all models were updated however, with the original narrow SJ410 still in production in some countries. While the third-generation Jimny replaced the Jimny/Samurai in most markets after 1998, it still remains in production in India.

Suzuki Jimny Landventure Turbo, series JA22W

Third generation (1998–present)

Third generation (JB23/JB33/JB43/JB53)
Overview
Also calledSuzuki Jimny Wide
Suzuki Jimny Sierra
Chevrolet Jimny
Mazda AZ-Offroad
ProductionJanuary 1998–present
AssemblyIwata, Japan
Bogotá, Colombia (GM Colombia)
Linares, Spain (Santana Motor)
Body and chassis
ClassOff-road mini SUV
Body style2-door wagon
2-door convertible
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine658 cc K6A I3 (JB23)
1,298 cc G13BB I4 (JB33)
1,328 cc M13A I4 (JB43)
1,461 cc K9K TD I4 (JB53)
Transmission5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,250 mm (89 in)
Length3,395–3,675 mm (133.7–144.7 in)[25]
Width1,475–1,600 mm (58.1–63.0 in)[25]
Height1,680–1,705 mm (66.1–67.1 in)[25]

At the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki presented the all-new Jimny with a much more modern design.[26] A ladder type chassis and a dual ratio transfer case was retained, unlike many competing compact 4WDs which lack a low range, and are strictly in the crossover category. Two bodystyles are available in export markets: a standard hard top and the Canvas Top, introduced at the Barcelona Motor Show in May 1999 and was built only by Santana in Spain between 1999 and 2009.[11] The Jimny replaced the popular Sierra/Samurai model in most markets (European introduction was in Paris, 1998[27]), though its predecessor remains in limited production in some places. For the domestic market, a 660 cc K6A-engined version suited for the Kei Jidosha class answers for most Jimny sales.

The larger 1.3-litre Jimny was originally equipped with the G13BB engine also used in the JB32. The 80 hp (60 kW) G13BB engine was replaced in Japan with the January 2000 introduction of the newly designed VVT 16-valve M-engine, but soldiered on in Spanish-built softtops until 2005.[28] For the continental European market, where the diesel cars hold a significant market share, in 2004 the turbodiesel Jimny JB53 was introduced, built by Santana and using a Renault-built DDiS 1,461 cc K9K engine. Power was originally 65 hp (48 kW) but was increased to 86 hp (64 kW) in 2005, the same as in gasoline versions.[26] It was discontinued in 2011, and was never available in Britain and Ireland.

The Jimny has a part-time 4WD system controlled by three dashboard buttons: 2WD, 4WD and 4WD-L. The default is 2WD, powering the rear wheels. When 4WD is pressed, the front wheels are also engaged in high gear. The 4WD-L engages the front wheels in a lower gear ratio. Being a part-time 4WD, there is no center differential or viscous coupling to allow for speed differences between the front and rear wheels, so only two-wheel drive mode works well on dry pavement. In Japan the "Sierra" name was revived in January 2002, when 1.3 liter Jimnys began to be sold as the "Jimny Sierra" rather than as the "Jimny Wide".

The Jimny's vacuum-locking hubs allow it to be shifted from 2WD to 4WD while travelling at up to 100 km/h (62 mph). Shifting to low range requires the vehicle to be stopped, but there is no need to exit the vehicle. Newer Jimnys have electronic push-button selectable four-wheel drive, which requires the vehicle to be stopped with the clutch depressed and transmission in neutral to select low range.

The Jimny has large windows, giving excellent visibility, apart from a rather serious blind spot caused by the oversized "B" pillar.[opinion] The large amount of glass also creates a greenhouse effect,[dubious – discuss] and the Jimny comes with air conditioning standard in some regions.

In Europe, both Hard Top and Canvas Top versions come in JX and JLX specifications. These are fairly standard designations across the Suzuki off road range, with the JLX being the fully optioned "luxury" version. In the case of the Jimny, the JLX adds roof rails, power steering, power windows, power adjustable exterior mirrors, and several interior comfort improvements. Both models are available with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox. There is also a 2WD option, only available as a 5-speed manual.

In 2009 Santana Motor of Spain ended its agreement with Suzuki to make the Canvas Top version, which has not been available since then. In 2011 Santana Motor went bankrupt. The Souza Ramos Group of Brazil, who used to make Mitsubishi cars under license, will start manufacturing the Suzuki Jimny in 2012 in Brazil to compensate for the lost of production capacity from Santana Motor. It is not known yet if the Canvas Top version will be manufactured also in Brazil.

As in Japan, Jimnys in Australia have borne the name Jimny Sierra since 2007, largely due to the Sierra name having become synonymous with small, capable off-road vehicles. Since 1999, GM Colmotores have been assembling the 1.3-litre, 79 hp (59 kW) JB33 with the name "Chevrolet Jimny" in Bogotá, Colombia.[29] The Jimny is also available as a grey-import in Singapore

  • Suzuki Jimny Sierra
    Suzuki Jimny Sierra
  • Suzuki Jimny JLX softtop
    Suzuki Jimny JLX softtop

Mazda AZ-Offroad

A Mazda AZ-Offroad

The Mazda AZ-Offroad, introduced in October 1998, is a rebadged Jimny. The AZ in the name refers to Autozam, Mazda's ill-fated small car marque. It is fitted with the turbocharged 660 cc DOHC Suzuki K6A engine, which produces 64 PS (47 kW; 63 bhp).[30] Manually operated four wheel drive is standard with auto locking front hubs and low range, whilst an automatic transmission is optional.

Development history

This collapsed table covers the development history of the Jimny in the Japanese domestic market, with notable export variations and developments also noted.

References

  1. ^ "History of Suzuki 4x4: 1975". Suzuki Motor Corporation. {{cite web}}: Check |archiveurl= value (help)
  2. ^ 360cc Light Commercial Truck 1950-1975 (360cc 軽商用貨物自動車 1950-1975). Tokyo: Yaesu Publishing. 2009. p. 34. ISBN 978-4-86144-139-4.
  3. ^ Ozeki, Kazuo (2007). Suzuki Story: Small Cars, Big Ambitions (in Japanese). Tokyo: Miki Press. p. 84. ISBN 978-4-89522-503-8. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help)
  4. ^ a b 1979 Suzuki Stockman 4WD Ad - Australia, www.flickriver.com Retrieved 11 July 2016
  5. ^ a b Car Graphic: Car Archives Vol. 5, '70s Japanese Cars (in Japanese). Tokyo: Nigensha. 2007. p. 145. ISBN 978-4-544-09175-5.
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