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Suzuki Jimny Estate (1998-2018) review

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Parkers overall rating: 2 out of 52.0

At a glance

Price new £9,917 - £14,914
Used prices £1,019 - £12,034
Road tax cost £190 - £385
Insurance group 13 - 15
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Fuel economy Not tested to latest standards
Range 299 - 343 miles
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Available fuel types

Petrol

Pros & cons

PROS

Cheap to buy and run, good off-road, robust build, well equipped, selectable four-wheel drive

CONS

Feels dated, noisy and uncomfortable on the move, unrefined, non-existent boot, sluggish performance

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Overview

The Suzuki 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.

Great off-road

Thanks to its compact size, switchable four-wheel drive and low-ratio gearbox, the Suzuki Jimny is one of the most capable off-roaders money can buy. The only limiting factors are how far you dare to push the car and the standard road-biased tyres.

The small 1.3-litre petrol engine may not have the lug of some rivals’ larger diesel motors, but the Jimny will still pull its way through some incredibly tough terrain and tow a trailer on-road. It’s a shame these talents don’t translate into such a good on-road drive, but the Jimny is well suited to some people’s needs.