New Suzuki Jimny confirmed for Australia

Suzuki Jimny fans rejoice: the all-new version of the venerable off-roader has been confirmed for Australia.

Set to arrive in showrooms in the first quarter of next year, the 2019 Jimny is only the fourth completely new version in 50 years (since the 1970 original) and the first full redesign in 20 years — since 1998.

The latest iteration of the cult compact 4x4 will be available with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, underpinned by a ladder frame chassis and paired with Suzuki’s dual-range ALLGRIP PRO four-wheel drive system with low-range.

The Jimny’s chief engineer used the Australian allocation announcement to promise fans they were in for a treat.

“The Jimny has been loved by customers around the world for nearly 50 years since its launch in 1970. It became an indispensable part of customers work, life and outdoor activities with its excellent off-road performance and high manoeuvrability,” said Hiroyuki Yonezawa.

“Twenty long years have passed since the last model change in 1998, making it the third full model change significant in Jimny history.”

The Jimny will burst into the 21st Century in Australia with fitment of modern functions including high-beam assist, daytime running lights (DRLs) and a 7.0-inch touch-screen projecting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In addition, the next-generation Jimny will feature hill-hold and hill decent controls as standard.

On the safety front, the diminutive SUV will offer dual front, side and curtain airbags, along with the latest acronyms in electronic aids. Importantly, the new Jimny is set to be available with autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which is all but a prerequisite for the five-star ANCAP safety rating Suzuki would require in Australia.

Suzuki Australia general manager Michael Pachota said the decision to import the new Jimny was a straight-forward one.

“The Jimny is synonymous with the Suzuki brand and to have an all-new model on its way is something worth talking about. The Australian landscape will be a true test for the iconic 4WD and I have no doubt it will rise to the challenge,” he said.

“I am very excited and highly anticipating the return of this legendary off-road compact SUV, in its all-new guise, to complement our already strong line-up of Suzuki vehicles in Australia.”