1 / 1Illustrative AI renders — not manufacturer photographs.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
India's most affordable true off-roader
Maruti Suzuki Jimny review
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is a genuine ladder-frame off-roader dressed in retro-boxy styling, sold in India as a practical five-door. Unlike most compact SUVs that are softened crossovers, it gets switchable AllGrip Pro four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case. That hardware makes it a rare, affordable choice for buyers who actually venture off tarmac, while its upright cabin and tall glasshouse give it real road presence in town too.
On paper the Jimny looks modest, and the 1.5-litre petrol making 104 bhp is honest rather than quick. The engine is smooth and willing, but the five-door's extra weight means you work it hard on highways, and overtakes need planning. The four-speed torque-converter automatic is the weak link here: it is dated and saps both response and efficiency, so keen drivers will prefer the five-speed manual. Mileage hovers around 16-17 kmpl in mixed use, which is fair for a four-wheel-drive body-on-frame vehicle but thirsty next to monocoque rivals.
Where the Jimny earns its keep is the moment the road ends. The AllGrip Pro system, low-range gearing, generous 210 mm ground clearance and excellent approach and departure angles let it scramble over terrain that would beach a Creta or Grand Vitara. The light kerb weight and short overhangs help, and the brake-based traction control is genuinely effective. For weekend trails, riverbeds and broken village roads, very little at this price comes close.
The cabin is a mixed bag. It is charmingly simple and superbly visible thanks to the upright pillars and big windows, and the nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay covers the basics. But material quality is plain, there is no sunroof, the rear seat is best for two, and boot space behind those seats is small at around 208 litres. Ride quality is bouncy on broken surfaces and the tall body leans noticeably through corners, so this is a vehicle you drive relaxed, not fast.
Safety has improved with six airbags, ESP, hill-hold and ISOFIX as standard on higher trims, and the global Jimny carries a respectable crash record. Maruti's wide service network and low running costs are real ownership advantages. Just go in clear-eyed: the Jimny is a specialist tool that happens to be usable daily, not a do-everything family SUV.
Pros & cons
What we like
- Real off-road ability at a low price
- Switchable 4WD with low range
- Excellent all-round visibility
- Strong retro styling and presence
- Low running and service costs
What could be better
- Underpowered on highways
- Dated 4-speed automatic gearbox
- Cramped boot and rear seat
- Bouncy ride and body roll
Maruti Suzuki Jimny price & variants
| Variant | Fuel / Transmission | Ex-showroom |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta MT Best value | PetrolManual | ₹12.74 Lakh |
| Zeta AT | PetrolAutomatic | ₹13.84 Lakh |
| Alpha MT | PetrolManual | ₹13.95 Lakh |
| Alpha AT | PetrolAutomatic | ₹15.05 Lakh |
Key specifications
Model Overview
Engine & Transmission
Dimensions & Capacity
Fuel & Performance
Comfort & Convenience
Safety
Maruti Suzuki Jimny colours
Kinetic Yellow with Black RoofExpert rating breakdown
Owner reviews
Unstoppable off the road
I take it to the Western Ghats almost every month and it just keeps going where friends' SUVs give up. City driving is easy thanks to the small size and great visibility. Only wish it had a bit more punch on the highway.
Fun but compromise on space
Love the looks and everyone notices it on the road. The boot is tiny though, so packing for family trips is a struggle. The automatic feels slow and I regret not taking the manual.
Honest, reliable companion
Running costs are low and Maruti service is everywhere, which gives peace of mind. It is not fast and the ride is bouncy on bad roads, but it is dependable and built to last. No regrets for what I use it for.
Alternatives to the Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Audi Q5
4.3₹65.00 Lakh – ₹77.00 LakhEx-showroom
Kia Syros
4.1₹8.99 Lakh – ₹15.99 LakhEx-showroom
Mahindra BE 6
4.2₹18.90 Lakh – ₹26.90 LakhEx-showroom
Hyundai Alcazar
4.3₹14.99 Lakh – ₹21.60 LakhEx-showroom
Maruti Suzuki Jimny — frequently asked questions
Is the Jimny a true 4x4 or just a soft-roader?
It is a genuine ladder-frame 4x4 with the AllGrip Pro system and a low-range transfer case, unlike most compact SUVs that use front-wheel-drive monocoque platforms.
How many people can the Jimny seat?
The India-spec five-door Jimny is a four-seater. The rear bench comfortably seats two adults; squeezing in a third is tight for longer journeys.
What mileage does the Jimny return?
Expect around 16 to 17 kmpl in mixed driving. The manual is slightly more efficient than the dated four-speed automatic, and frequent 4WD use lowers the figure.
Is the Jimny good for daily city use?
Yes. Its compact footprint, light steering and tall glasshouse make it easy to drive and park in town, though the firm ride and modest power are noticeable.
Should I pick the manual or the automatic?
The five-speed manual is the better choice for performance and efficiency. The four-speed automatic is convenient in traffic but feels sluggish and dated.
How safe is the Maruti Jimny?
Higher trims get six airbags, ESP with hill-hold, ABS with EBD and ISOFIX. The global Jimny has a solid crash-safety reputation for its class.
Image is an AI-generated illustration. Specifications and prices are indicative and may vary by variant and city — please confirm with an authorized dealer. Last updated 2026-06-25.