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While Maruti Suzuki will launch Jimny Sierra with India specs in a 5-door design, it will also manufacture the normal 3-door version at its Gujrat facility for the export market.
The Suzuki Jimny recently completed 50 years of existence, with more than 2.85 million units sold in up to 195 countries. The Jimny is in its fourth generation now and is already being loved by foreigners. Maruti Suzuki India Ltd initially denied any plans to bring the mini SUV to our market as its size is too small to help the SUV achieve success in our market.
Recently, however, it came to light that the company finally decided to bring the fourth generation of Suzuki Jimny to our shores. The mini SUV was even showcased at this year’s Auto Expo, where it wowed everyone with its cheesy yet tough look. We also learned earlier this year that the company is preparing the production line at its Gujrat plant for SUV production.
However, the Indian version of the Suzuki Jimny, which could even be sold with the gypsy nickname, will not be an exact reflection of the model sold abroad. As the company still thinks that it is not feasible to bring the SUV to our shores in its current size, it will launch a 5-door version with two rear doors as the obvious addition. The Heartect platform will likely allow the company to stretch the SUV’s wheelbase by 30mm, which, in turn, will help accommodate additional doors.
The 5-door Suzuki Jimny will be exclusive to India and will be sold through the premium retail chain Nexa. What this also means is that the mini-SUV will be promoted as a lifestyle offering that would make a lot of sense as a private car. However, what is also a fact is that India will become an export hub for the Jimny Sierra 3-Door. The export model will be manufactured at the Suzuki facility in Gujarat.
Both the regular Suzuki Jimny and its 5-door version for India will share the 1.5-liter K-series engine producing 102PS and 130Nm. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. 4-wheel drive and limited slip differential will help the SUV easily tame rough terrain. The 3-door model will only go for export, however there is some chance that the 3 and 5 door models could be launched in India just like Landrover Defender 90 and 110 with a price difference of Rs. 80,000 to 90,000.
We hope that our sources will disclose more details about Maruti Suzuki’s plans to bring the mini SUV to our market. As of now, what is known is that the new model will be launched early next year, while its export could begin in late 2020. Its price will be approximately 10 lakh (ex exposure).
