Facebook no script

Which is the best variant of Suzuki Jimny?

Three distinctive trim levels exist in the current, 3-door Jimny range on sale in South Africa. While each one offers a different arrangement of standard equipment, they all share the same off-road prowess.

Buying a Car

Every manufacturer hopes that every new model they launch becomes a worldwide sensation, selling in vast numbers and capturing the hearts and minds of the public. Suzuki certainly hoped for this but I doubt they were anticipating the overwhelming success that the latest, fourth-generation Jimny would become. Revered the world over and lusted after in markets where the model is not sold, the diminutive little 4x4 remains on a waiting list and holds its value exceptionally well.

Related: Which Suzuki Jimny trim depreciates the fastest

The Suzuki Jimny may not have the largest engine or the most space, but its style and respected 4x4 capabilities make it popular with hard-core off-roaders, overlanders and general commuters alike. It's rather affordable and as reliable as a German train conductor's Swiss watch, so what's not to like? All you need to decide is which trim you would like.

 

Suzuki Jimny grade walk

The JB74W Suzuki Jimny is available in three distinct trim levels. All of them feature the same K15B 1.5-litre engine that produces 75 kW and 130 Nm torque. Don't be fooled, that's more than enough to get the compact Jimny up and over just about anything and this engine performs like a much larger engine. 

 

All models are equipped with the AllGrip 4x4 system that includes a low-range transfer case, giving you 2-High, 4-High, and 4-Low range gear selection options. Most trims are available with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual gearbox.

Here's how they compare.

Feature Trim Trim Trim
  1.5 GA 1.5 GL 1.5 GLX
Gearbox MT MT/AT MT/AT
Headlights Halogen Halogen LED
Fog Lamps - Yes Yes
Mirrors Manual Electric Electric
Steering wheel Urethane Urethane Leather
Steering controls - Yes Yes
Central locking - Yes Yes
Air conditioning Manual Manual Automatic
Rear seat Bench 50:50 50:50
Audio - MP3, CD, BT SLDA with CarPlay and Android Auto
Cruise control - - Yes

 

Verdict

It's simple to see that even with its small footprint, the Jimny is able to pack in a lot of value. The GLX trim is naturally the best equipped but on the basis of cost versus features, the GL model is a winner. We would have liked a better infotainment system, but this is also quickly remedied with an optional upgrade or an aftermarket solution. The GL also allows you to choose between an automatic or manual gearbox.

We are yet to hear which trims the 5-door version that is due at the end of 2023 will come with, but we expect the standard equipment levels to be roughly the same as the 3-door model.

Author - Chad Lückhoff

Written by Chad Lückhoff

Chad is a former motorsport commentator, technical editor, and has an unhealthy obsession with 90s Japanese sports cars. He is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 11-years.Read more

More categories

All
Automotive News
Buying a Car
Car Ownership
Selling a Car
Electric Cars
Buyer's Guide