Jimny fixed it

IT may be the entry-level model to Suzuki's extensive range of sports utilities, but the Jimny estate is seen as the perfect starter pack for those wanting to sample 4x4 motoring off the tarmac.

The latest Jimny has had a facelift, been given a new engine and a redesigned interior.

But despite the changes there has not been any lift in prices: the manual version still costs £9,999 on the road, and the automatic £10,782.

Interior changes see the introduction of new fabrics and finishes, new front and back seat designs and an instrument panel that provides red backlighting.

The more expensive automatic model gets a new centre console and gear selector gate, while both manual and automatic have a push button selector for the four-wheel drive system. This replaces the separate lever, which sat behind the main gearshift.

There is a high driving position ensuring good views, and passengers have also been given extra headroom.

All-important visibility to the rear has been increased by large, electrically operated door mirrors, doughnut-type head restraints and a spare wheel now positioned low on the rear door.

For passengers having to sit in the back, access is easy because of the wide-opening doors, low sills and front seats that slide forward. Rear seaters also get armrests, holders for oddments, as well as a cup holder.

The back seats split 50:50 and can be both reclined and fully folded forward to open up the luggage area.

Since its launch in 1998, the Jimny's separate, full box-section has established a reputation for durability and toughness, particularly while off-roading.

A transfer box with high or low ratio four-wheel drive manages the car's Drive Select 4x4 system. The free-wheeling front hubs are engaged automatically and four-wheel can be selected while on the move, and on a straight line course this can be changed at speeds up to 62mph.

Incidentally, off-road credentials include 190mm ground clearance, approach and departure angles of 42-degrees and 46-degrees, and a ramp angle of 31-degrees, all comfortable for off-roading.

Although there is plenty of chassis strength in the event of a crash (it is designed to absorb collision energy from all directions) there are still plenty of safety measures provided, including large front brake discs and rear drums, anti-lock brakes and electronic brake force distribution.

There are airbags for both in the front, as well as side impact protection beams.

The variable valve timing of the Euro IV-compliant, 16-valve 1.3-litre engine means good performance and economy: output rises from 82 to 85PS, while the 81lb.ft of torque is now delivered at 4,100rpm, to give a flatter torque curve -- near maximum torque comes in as low as 2500rpm.

Suzuki says that the combined fuel cycle has been improved with the manual version returning 38.7mpg compared to the earlier model's 36.2mpg (emissions are down from 184g/km to 174g/km) while the automatic returns 36.2mpg compared with 34.9mpg. The emission level of the automatic is also down, from 189g/km to 184g/km.

Acceleration to 62mph may not be particularly exciting, but careful tuning has shaved 2.7-seconds off the original 16.8-seconds.

External features include new five-spoke alloy wheels, fog lamps set into the front bumper (both now standard rather than an option), power assisted steering, front electric windows, radio/CD player, and integral roof rails.

Potential owners worried about the car's size will find it can be easily manoeuvred about the city and parked easily.

It has a turning circle of about ten metres, and with an overall length of 3625mm and width of 1600mm it can negotiate the most heavily congested areas.

Finally, optional extras include metallic paint finishes for £275, and accessories such as spare wheel covers, exterior light trims, and roof rack fittings for bikes, surfboards and sailboards.

Dealer: Glen Garage, 12-14 Hawthorne Grove, Heworth,

York (phone 01904 425800)

Updated: 11:38 Friday, April 29, 2005