Suzuki unveils facelifted 2013 Jimny SUV ahead of Paris debut

[nadepalma]

Suzuki unveils facelifted 2013 Jimny SUV ahead of Paris debut
By Ronan Glon
Wednesday, Jun 27th, 2012

The current generation of the pint-sized Suzuki Jimny has been on the market for no less than 14 years. A replacement is said to be coming in the near future but Suzuki has just given the SUV a shot of Botox to keep it looking fresh.

Aesthetically, the 2013 Jimny benefits from redesigned headlights and a more aggressive front bumper that boasts a larger air vent. The tiny offroader is also fitted with a less Jeep-like plastic grille that is now separate from the hood, a modification that should please the EuroNCAP.

The Jimny’s 90s-inspired interior does not change and entry-level models are still equipped with roll-up windows. Safety-conscious buyers can order the SUV with two front airbags.

The only engine offered is a slightly anemic 85 horsepower 1.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. It propels the SUV from zero to 62 mph in 14 seconds and on to a top speed of 87 miles per hour.

The 1.3-liter is bolted to a five-speed manual gearbox that can send power to all four wheels at the push of a dash-mounted button.

It should be noted that the Jimny is no longer offered with a diesel mill because the ancient Renault-sourced engine could not be modified to meet Europe’s updated emissions regulations.

CONTINUE AT: http://www.leftlanenews.com/suzuki-jimny.html

[nadepalma]

Not offered in the United States, the Jimny is a direct descedant of the boxy Suzuki Samurai that was sold throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

I always liked the original Suzuki Samarai and "our own" Geo/Chevrolet Tracker alot. I always kind of thought of this breed of vehicle as a sort of "cheap Jeep" alternative: Affordable and rugged with an open top option and some offroad ability.

Even if we don't get it in the U.S. market, I'm glad to see that even after years of turning them out with little changes (and even as vehicles become more sophisticated and refined) there are still markets that enjoy these types of tough n' tumble products.

In my opinion, it's just too bad that there isn't something "fun" like the original Tracker in Chevy's current lineup or like the Bronco in Ford's modern portfolio (maybe a rebadged Troller for the US?). Of course, I say that having a soft spot for this kind of vehicle. An old friend and former college roommate of mine had a Tracker back in the day. It was certainly "crude" by comparison to stuff today (hell, it was a bit crude to some of it's own contemporaries) but that thing was frugal and fun to drive. Plus, you could drive it just about anywhere and beat on it with no problem or complaints. Ah, memories! ;-)

[ausrutherford]

That barely qualifies for a facelift...

[calgaryhhr]

I'm sure a lot of people here will hate on this vehicle but there is something that I find really appealing about the simplistic and utilitarian design and execution of this vehicle. An open top/soft top option would be really cool.

[StormHunter77]

From the front it **kind of** reminds me of the original Bronco. My mom had a Tracker and I remember how cheap it was. She loved it though. Still, the outside looks like a 1990s car trying to look like a 2000s car. The interior is, well, basic. I agree with calgaryhhr in that its simplicity is appealing. I would live if GM offered a simple, body-on-frame, small SUV, like the Blazer. Something you could hose out or take on the beach and not worry. Alas, I think those days are over. Even the Wrangler is 100x more upscale than the original.

[PontiacBixler]

We need the TRACKER back!!!!
NO FOUR DOOR VERSION EITHER!
Just strictly 2 door soft top with a removable hard top option.

[KingElvis]

I think it's kind of so uncool it's cool.

[Ute]

I always liked the original Suzuki Samarai and "our own" Geo/Chevrolet Tracker alot.

Chevrolet Tracker is Suzuki Sidekick, not Jimny/Samurai.

[Smellhound]

I'm sure a lot of people here will hate on this vehicle but there is something that I find really appealing about the simplistic and utilitarian design and execution of this vehicle. An open top/soft top option would be really cool.

I agree. I love some smaller vehicles that aren't loaded with tons and tons of options. But yes, I know that automakers don't like to make these cars because they don't make as much profit off of them.

[CJH]

Straight out of the 80's.

[SonicAerio]

I'm sure a lot of people here will hate on this vehicle but there is something that I find really appealing about the simplistic and utilitarian design and execution of this vehicle. An open top/soft top option would be really cool.

Completely agree.....

The interior looks like it was pulled from the SX4 minus the older looking rubber boot. I think with the popluarity of growing compact CUV's like the Buick Encore or Kia Soul. This could find its place in the NA market as an off road alternative.

[Astra_driver]

This is 1.5 man car, even 1942 jeep has more wider cabin, and the same fuel consumption and has better acceleration, crash safety level is the same .... ok. this piece of junk has optional two airbags, but structural strength of passenger compartment is under todays standard, only reason to go for these two they save billing of mortician for face reconstruction for relative for open coffin .... it's not even reliable ....

[YupYupYup]

Too bad Suzuki has horrible safety and quality ratings...bottom of the list.

[VS Ute 5Litre]

It's still a great off roader that can go allmost anywhere

I like them and would own one except i cant really fit in it LOL

[spd98]

Whats up with the name? Anyone else find it odd they went with a GMC cast off?