Jimny has been around in one form or another for over 50 years. It really hasn’t changed much in terms of concept and basic design in that time: it’s a tiny SUV with cute looks that makes considerable compromise in its on-road driving dynamics to provide the ultimate in off-road, go-anywhere ability. And makes no excuses for doing so.
So why is it suddenly our top Lifestyle/Adventure vehicle of the year? A couple of reasons.
First, we’ve rethought this class a bit. Formerly called light commercial (LCV), it’s always been about vehicles that combine dual-purpose appeal (work/weekends) with proper off-road ability. Utes, in other words. But we’ve opened it up to include SUVs that also offer the same combination of qualities. So no, you won’t see an urban crossover here; but if it’s an SUV that’s capable of some proper rock-hopping and mountain-climbing, this is the place.
Second, Suzuki added a 5dr variant to the Jimny lineup for the first time this year. It’s just as visually engaging as the 3dr in its own way, and just as capable off-road, but suddenly you now have space for the family in the back and a decent cargo area.
The two models together provide real choice for the Adventure-focused buyer: Jimny is a 4x4 packed with heritage that combines high fashion status (yes, we know many are simply driven around town!) with true off-road ability, in either adorable/authentic 3dr or sweetly stretched 5dr forms.
No, it’s not cheap for a car of these diminutive dimensions: $32k-plus for a very basic 3dr two-seat “van” (so yes, it can actually be an LCV too) and up to $45,500 for the top-specification 5dr. And that’s before you add accessories; Jimny owners add a lot of accessories. But that’s just a measure of how much enthusiasm the Jimny inspires in owners. You really want to make it your own; except with the 5dr, you can also make it for the family.
Runners up: Ford Ranger, Mitsubishi Triton.
AA DRIVEN CAR OF THE YEAR CLASS WINNERS FOR 2024
City SUV
Family SUV
Large SUV
Passenger
Hybrid/EV
Luxury
Sports/Performance
Safest
People's Choice
And the overall winner is...!