Suzuki is preparing a new generation of its beloved Jimny (Maruti Suzuki Gypsy in India). A prototype of the fourth generation Jimny was recently spotted testing in Spain alongside the model it replaces. The tiny 4x4 off-roader looks more modern now with better technologies and is also more capable than before.
By the looks of it, the test mule looks like a scaled down Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. The square-ish body with a solid ladder-on-frame construction lends the new Jimny its distinctive appeal. There are no overhangs whatsoever on the puny off-roader, providing the vehicle with a compact footprint. The circular headlamps, upright grille, flat roofline and flared wheel arches further accentuates the prototype's impersonation of the Gelandewagen. The retro styling with elements like bumper mounted triad of tail lamps and tailgate-mounted spare wheel also add to the appeal of the new off-roader.
The new Jimny is speculated to measure 3.67m in length and have a width of 1.60m. It will come with its standard AWD layout with a low-range gearbox but can also be had with a rear-wheel-drive option. The two-door variant spotted here will also be joined by a larger four-door variant, but that will come later. There is no proper view of the cabin, but the new-gen Jimny will come with proper modern-day creature comforts like touchscreen infotainment system, climate control, soft touch plastics, better seats and a few other equipment scrounged from Suzuki’s part bin.
There are no concrete powertrain details available as yet. However, the new generation would carry forward the 1.3-litre four-cylinder VVT petrol motor. Suzuki’s newly developed 1.0-litre Boosterjet is also on the cards but there is no information regarding the diesel powerplant for the Jimny as yet. Transmission option would be a manual but expect an automatic unit as well.
The all-new Jimny was expected to be revealed this year. However, looking at the production-ready prototype, we expect the compact SUV to break cover early next year. The capable off-roader might also make its way to the Indian shores given that the Gypsy had a successful run in its lifespan in the country, even serving in the Indian armed forces.
