Getting caught in the rain and mobility

MANILA, Philippines — Suzuki Philippines recently introduced the innovation for Filipinos — the Jimny All-Grip Pro.  What I like about this innovation is that the Jimny is not only a small 4X4 — it is also not a pricey one, that is a little less than the one million peso mark.

But, the innovations in this fourth generation variant are many and make the Jimny a good drive for the potholed and flooded streets of the metro.

To start with the fourth generation Jimny trademark 4x4 boasts a simple, rugged design that exudes tough strength that guarantees real off-road adventure across any terrain, trail or even flood.

“Our determination to provide simple, straightforward, and functional vehicles such as the Suzuki Jimny All-Grip Pro underscores our commitment to continuously provide innovation that Filipinos can rely on,” said Suzuki Philippines director and Automobile Division GM Keiichi Suzuki.  “Every detail of the fourth-generation Jimny—from the body to the engine—is designed to deliver the maximum performance and durability required by serious off-road travelers. With this newest addition to our lineup of vehicles, more Filipinos can now enjoy the Suzuki Way of Life as they explore more challenges and adventures.”

Real off-road performance

I recently took the Jimny to the test in its 4X4 capacity — but not into the rough roads but into the roads of the metro which we travel every day and which get flooded easily. Since the Jimny is designed to deliver authentic 4x4 experience, the all-new Jimny features All Grip Pro for high off-road capability that allows instant response and maneuver through flooded and bumpy terrain.

Although the drive is not the smoothest — what is important when stuck in traffic and flood is that it makes it though these roads. The Jimny did not disappoint.  Compared with many SUVs today with independent suspensions, the Jimny uses a long-stroke 3-link suspension and rigid full wheel axles on both front and rear for strong traction on uneven terrain.

I know that this Jimny might not be as comfortable as the higher end SUVs but it’s got such cute looks that getting caught in the flood and people watching if you will make it thought are definitely a plus factor — and more importantly, it succeeds.

Why? The Jimny can climb over obstacles and deeps holes without scrapping its bumpers or underbody. The vehicle’s 37-degree specialized approach angle, 28-degree ramp breakover angle and 49-degree departure angle allow it to maneuver over ridges and verticals.

It’s got the look and tech, too

The fourth-generation SUV sports a square body for better situational awareness. Its super lightweight lets it conquer mud, sand and up steep slippery slopes where heavier vehicles tend to get stuck. 

The Jimny’s look and body express off-road functionality in every detail, from the tough square form to the 15-inch alloy wheels painted in dark-metallic gray. The angled bumper is optimized for off-road terrain while the square wheel arches allow for easier tire changes. Molded black bumpers, wheel arch extensions and side sills help block pebbles from scratching the body panels. The iconic round headlamps inherited from past models.

I really like that the interior mirrors the simple and straightforward exterior. Black is used to minimize distraction, with functional parts such as center switches and dials in metallic colors for easy use. The instrument panel and surrounding parts have scratch- and stain-resistant grained finish while the circular steering wheel has a leather cover to withstand rough handling.

Last word

Go ahead, get stuck in traffic in the rain in the Jimny and you will not be disappointed. The all-new Jimny uses a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder K15B engine that delivers stronger torque than the previous Jimny. It features a specially designed flywheel for engine flexibility and improved NVH and a lightweight resin belt cover and fuel tank. The optimized intake system and long nozzle injector enhance fuel efficiency.

The Jimny All-Grip Pro also features Suzuki’s Total Effective Control Technology (TECT), which scatters collision energy across the vehicle frame to mitigate damage to the car and passengers.

To reduce driver stress and fatigue, one of the top design considerations for the new Jimny, the SUV’s ladder frame rigidity was increased and the body mounts redesigned for lower vibration. Unpleasant noise inside the cabin is reduced through the strategic placement of sound-absorbing material throughout the body. 

For greater dependability, the Jimny All-Grip Pro use zinc-coated steel more extensively and has a more effective floor undercoating and seater coatings at panel edges to protect it against rust caused by salt from river crossings.

There is not much that I did not like about the Jimny. It is an SUV that is built for the Filipino driver and like the Filipino can handle any and all situations on the roads — floods, included.

It is a mobility partner that gets the job done and how.