After a lot of rumours and speculations, the 5-door version of the Suzuki Jimny has been spotted road testing in India. Sources also confirm that the long-awaited SUV will make its debut in January at the Auto Expo 2023.
Though the Jimny test mule can be seen with heavy camouflage, it is clear that it is the 5-door version. The company starting with road testing also suggests that the launch is not very far away.
Spy shots of the 5-door Jimny first surfaced online a few months ago. However, those were from Europe. The sighting of the 5-door version’s test mule in India means it is likely headed here. This is also the very first time we see a Jimny test mule in camouflage in India.
Apart from the heavy camouflage, we see it sporting red-coloured alloy wheels and a spare wheel at the back. The test mule has typical Maruti Suzuki test registration plates. Sources also suggest that the reason for the camouflage could be that it is a facelift version. The brand has not updated the Jimny for a while. Hence, there is a possibility that there is a facelift version in the pipeline which could debut on the 5-door version first.
On the inside, it is unlikely that it will get any drastic changes. However, the additional wheelbase means one can expect more space for the second-row passengers. Additionally, Maruti Suzuki could give it a new texture for the upholstery. The 5-door version could also get a bigger 9-inch touchscreen instead of the 7-inch unit in the current Jimny.
Maruti Suzuki already manufactures the 3-door Jimny in India for export markets. However, as they are meant for exports, they are all left-hand drive versions. This is the first time we are seeing a made-in-India Jimny that is right-hand drive.
As for the powertrain, it will likely use the K15C 1.5-litre DualJet engine, which also does duty in the Brezza and the new Grand Vitara. In the international markets, the 3-door Jimny comes with an older K15B engine. Gearbox options will likely include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic. Both will also get a manually-operated transfer case and 4×4.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki planning an SUV in each segment in India