Maruti Suzuki has confirmed that is will launch the new-gen Jimny SUV in India sometime next year. This announcement comes after the manufacturer received tremendous response to the Jimny when it was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo, earlier this month. With the launch of the Jimny, Maruti will re-enter the segment of lifestyle 4×4 vehicles, something that it has lost a presence in ever since the discontinuation of the Gypsy.
The Jimny had received a fourth-gen update in 2018. Ever since this launch, enthusiasts in the Indian market were waiting for an India launch of the Jimny SUV. However, the manufacturer hadn’t revealed any plans for bringing the SUV to our shores. But with increased demand, as well as lack of any major products to show, Maruti brought the new-gen Jimny to the 2020 Auto Expo. And the company has received an overwhelming response during the motor show, thus freezing its decision to finally bring the Jimny to India.
The Maruti Jimny is based on a body-on-frame chassis and continues to have compact dimensions and a light weight. The design still retains the boxy layout of the previous-gen model, with the front getting circular headlamps and indicators and a vertically slated grille.
The Jimny in India will get a touchscreen infotainment system, all wheel drive, power steering and windows, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Occupant safety will be taken care of by twin airbags at the front, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and seat belt reminder. It is worth noting that the international-spec Jimny gets 6 airbags, lane assist control, and autonomous emergency braking (AEB). It is yet to be seen whether Maruti India brings these features to the model that will be sold in the country as well.
Powering the Maruti Jimny in India will be the company’s 1.5-litre, four-cylinder K15B petrol engine. This is the same engine that powers the recently-launched Vitara Brezza, Ertiga, Ciaz and XL6. It is yet to be seen what gearbox will be offered with the Jimny of the two available options with this engine – a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
Maruti is aiming to launch the Jimny SUV in India at a price of less than Rs. 10 lakh. It will be sold through the company’s premium NEXA outlets.