Maruti Suzuki is not new to the SUV segment, but the brand’s focus has moved away from the segment. However, with the increasing demand for SUVs, Maruti Suzuki is re-entering the segment quite aggressively.
Maruti Suzuki’s first SUV launch for 2022 was the Brezza, which was an instant hit. Next up was the Grand Vitara, which has received over 50,000 bookings. In addition to this, Maruti Suzuki also has 2 more SUVs in the pipeline – the Baleno Cross and the Jimny 5-door.
News of the Jimny coming to India is not new. Spy shots of the SUV have also surfaced online multiple times. However, now we have spy shots of the Jimny from Leh.
5-Door Maruti Suzuki Jimny Spotted During High Altitude Testing – What Do We See?
The new spy shots from Leh show the test mule wearing a different camouflage design than the previous test mules. This test mule also does not have the red-coloured wheels as the other test mule.
From what we can see, Maruti Suzuki was testing the Jimny alongside the Grand Vitara and the Mahindra Thar. The Grand Vitara looks to be Maruti Suzuki’s test vehicle, and it could be testing new components or simply acting as a backup vehicle for the Jimny.
On the other hand, the other SUV present is not a surprise. When Maruti Suzuki launches the Jimny 5-door in India, it will directly compete with the upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door. Thus, it looks like Maruti Suzuki is benchmarking the Jimny to one of its main competitors to see how it fares.
5-Door Maruti Suzuki Jimny – What Do We Know?
Since the only spy shots that have surfaced online so far are of the 5-door Jimny, it seems like there won’t be a 3-door Jimny for India. However, Maruti Suzuki may consider the 3-door version at a later date, depending on the demand.
When it makes its way here, it will face stiff competition from the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha. However, what could work in Jimny’s favour is the pricing. With high localisation and a lack of extra features, Jimny’s pricing could undercut its rivals.
Powering the Jimny will be the same 1.5-litre K-series engine as on the Grand Vitara, Brezza and more. This motor makes 100 BHP and 130 Nm of torque and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox.
Also Read: 2022 Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara launched at INR 10.45 lakh
