The 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL is a compact SUV that combines rugged charm with modern functionality. It is a large version of Suzuki’s original Jimney and Jimney Lite. The Jimny series dates back to the 1970s with the release of the Suzuki LJ10. Over the decades, the various Jimny models have become a cult classic and a consistent sales hit for Suzuki. While known for its off-road capabilities, this compact SUV has developed a following in urban settings, too.
With the larger XL series, previously called the Jimny 5 Door, finally arriving in Australia, it is a good time to know how it rates in comparison to other cars in the market.
Is the Suzuki Jimny XL worth the hype? Let’s find out.
The 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL is equipped with LED projector headlights, providing enhanced visibility and improved road illumination. These headlights offer a brighter, more focused beam compared to traditional halogen lights (used in the Jimny LITE), ensuring safer driving conditions, especially at night and in adverse weather. The modern LED technology not only delivers better lighting performance but also adds a stylish, contemporary look to the Jimny's distinctive front design.
The 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL is equipped with robust tyres that feature a width/profile of 195/80, providing excellent traction and stability across various terrains. These tyres are paired with 15-inch alloy wheels, which not only enhance the vehicle's off-road capabilities but also add a touch of style and sophistication. The alloy wheels are lightweight yet durable, contributing to improved handling and fuel efficiency. The Jimny XL's tyre and wheel combination ensures a confident and comfortable driving experience, whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails.
The door mirrors are both electrically adjustable and folding, offering convenience and practicality. These mirrors can be effortlessly adjusted from within the vehicle, allowing for optimal visibility with minimal effort. The folding function helps protect the mirrors from damage in tight spaces or when parked. Finished in sleek black paint, the mirrors complement the Jimny XL’s rugged and stylish design, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.
The Jimny XL is equipped with an additional set of doors to accommodate its larger size. This means that passengers have easier access to the back two seats. While convenient, the extra doors do detract from the iconic aesthetic of the original Jimny exterior. However, the benefit of increased comfort and convenience makes the XL very practical.
Colour options for the Jimny vary significantly. The Jimny XL has five colour options for people to choose from. While these offer a versatile selection, this model does not offer the iconic Kinetic Yellow, now synonymous with the Jimny.
Here are the colour options for the Suzuki Jimny XL:
1. Arctic White Pearl
2. Chiffon Ivory Metallic + Bluish Black Pearl
3. Sizzling Red Metallic + Bluish Black Pearl
4. Granite Grey Metallic
5. Bluish Black Pearl
Suzuki also offers a range of customisation features, including accessories like grilles, bumper trims, rims, roof racks, and more, allowing owners to personalise their Jimny to match their adventurous spirit.
Despite its larger size than traditional Jimnys, the build quality of the Jimny is solid, with a full ladder-frame chassis and rigid axles front and rear. This professional-grade 4x4 construction sets it apart from similarly sized AWD ‘soft-roaders’ and underscores its off-road credentials. The overall aesthetic of the Jimny XL is both functional and endearing. It gives the owner more space while still maintaining much of the iconic aesthetic choices that have made the Jimny popular.
Inside the 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL, the design is similarly rugged and functional. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with a technical, Lego-like approach where each component fits seamlessly. The body colour painted sections and Allen head fixings for grab handles on the dash and doors contribute to the no-frills design. The instruments, switches, and dials are reminiscent of an army supply catalogue, enhancing the vehicle’s practical feel.
Seating comfort in the Jimny is adequate, with good headroom in both the front and rear. However, the compact dimensions mean that the front passenger seat and driver’s seat are closely positioned, creating a cosy rather than cramped atmosphere. The rear seats are best suited for occasional adult use or for children, given the limited legroom and shoulder room. The seats are covered in a soft with fabric upholstery, consistent across the Jimny range with 50:50 split single-folding seats in the rear of the car. The driver and front passenger seats are equipped with headrests.
Storage options are limited, with a small slot between the front seats, two cupholders, an oddments tray in front of the gear lever, a small glove box, and an open tray above it. Door bins are slender and not suitable for larger bottles. Rear passengers have minimal storage, relying on the centre console cupholders. Connectivity is provided by a single USB-A port and 12-volt outlets in the dash and boot.
The XL model has power windows for the driver’s side and the front and rear passengers. This allows greater accessibility for all passengers. While the standard Jimny model is equipped with the same amount of power windows, the LITE version does not. This should be a consideration if you’re trying to decide between models.
The 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL is powered by a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, producing a maximum power of 75kW at 6,000 RPM and 130Nm of torque at 4,000 RPM. Choose between a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. This choice gives buyers flexibility when choosing the perfect Jimny for them.
Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO allows drivers to take control of your journey. The system allows the driver to switch between 4WD and 2WD depending on where you are driving. The driver can easily switch between 2WD and two 4WD modes (high- and low-range options) when driving conditions change.
The Jimny offers ‘2H’ (2WD-high gear), ‘4H’ (4WD-high gear), and ‘4L’ (4WD-low gear) modes. The transition from 2H to 4H can be done on the move up to 100km/h, while engaging 4L requires a full stop. The rigid axle suspension setup, combined with coil springs, results in a bumpy ride over uneven city roads, but the steering is light and accurate, with a tight 9.8m turning circle that simplifies U-turns and parking. This system means your journey is as fuel-efficient as possible, saving on fuel and reducing unnecessary emissions.
Weighing just 1075kg, the Jimny is light, but its modest engine output means it isn’t particularly quick, with a 0-100km/h time of around 12 seconds. Despite this, the vehicle’s high-range gearing provides sufficient power for city and suburban driving. The gear change is smooth, and the clutch is light, making it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.
The safety performance of the 2023 Suzuki Jimny XL is a mixed bag. It received a three-star rating from ANCAP, highlighting areas for improvement in structural design and pedestrian protection. The vehicle is equipped with six airbags (front, side, and curtain), but the effectiveness of the driver’s airbag in crash tests was questioned, as it allowed the driver’s head to impact the steering wheel.
Child occupant protection scores were high, with top tethers and ISOFIX anchors for both rear seat positions. However, the Jimny lacks several advanced safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Despite these shortcomings, the Jimny’s build quality and reliability are solid, backed by Suzuki’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance.
