Suzuki Jimny (98 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 08 March 2011
The Jimny harks back to previous small Suzuki 4x4s - such as the SJ and Samurai ranges - with utilitarian styling and off-road practicality. But this model is more urbanite style statement than agricultural workhorse. The 1.3-litre engine is a little unrefined, but willing enough and is capable around town, however it struggles at higher speeds and it's clear that the Jimny is not a car designed for long distance travel. Noise is an issue and from behind the wheel it feels dated - hardly surprising since it was first launched in 1998. Small families will find the rear two seats a bit too cramped and the boot is pretty much pointless. But it is very affordable and comes well equipped as standard.
2 out of 5

Other Suzuki reviews

3 out of 5

Running costs

The Jimny is cheap at around £10K with a manual gearbox and running costs are on a par with the rest of Suzuki's small 4x4s. Low insurance costs and reasonable 38mpg economy enhance its appeal but depreciation is the biggest cost - expect to lose at least 55 per cent of the car's value over three years, if you pay the full asking price.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

6000 miles.

Warranty

Three years/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£170.00 - £250.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
    162
  • H
  • I
  • J
    196
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The Jimny is not particularly environmentally friendly and with an average of 184g/km CO2 across the range, its emissions are quite high for a small 4x4. Economy is a reasonable 38mpg on manual versions with the newer VVT engine.

Find the exact engine and CO2