Introduction: The Comeback of the Iconic Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is a name that resonates with 4×4 enthusiasts, known for its off-road capability and compact design. Originally launched in its fourth generation as a small SUV, the Jimny was discontinued in some markets due to stringent emissions regulations. However, it has made an unexpected return in a new form—the **Suzuki Jimny LCV** (Light Commercial Vehicle). This is the van you never knew you needed, keeping all the charm of the original Jimny, but repurposed for commercial use.
In this article, we’ll explore why the Jimny LCV is worth considering, particularly if you need a rugged vehicle for light commercial tasks with impressive off-road abilities.
Performance: More Than Meets the Eye
If you’re buying a Jimny with no plans to go off-road, you might find it a bit rough around the edges. On regular tarmac, the **1.5-liter petrol engine** feels modest with its **110 horsepower**. It’s paired with a **five-speed manual transmission**, offering a top speed of just **90 mph**. The ride can be somewhat harsh, particularly on bumpy roads, and the tall, boxy design means that it tends to roll through corners.
However, this vehicle is not about on-road comfort; its heart lies in off-road adventures. Weighing in at only **1090 kg**, the Jimny LCV is light, which makes it incredibly agile off-road. With its **ladder frame chassis**, **three-link rigid axle suspension**, and the choice between **two-wheel drive**, **four-wheel drive**, and **four-wheel drive with a low mode**, the Jimny LCV is capable of tackling terrains that would leave other SUVs struggling. It also comes equipped with off-road essentials like **Hill Hold** and **Hill Descent Control**, making steep inclines and declines easier to manage.
Off-Road Capability: Built for Adventure
Suzuki has designed the Jimny LCV to be one of the most capable small off-road vehicles on the market. It features **high ground clearance**, sturdy **flared wheel arches**, and a **spare wheel mounted on the tailgate**. These rugged features contribute to its ability to tackle mud, rocks, and rough trails with ease. The inclusion of **Hill Descent Control** ensures that even steep, challenging descents are handled with safety and precision.
This Jimny model might look small, but don’t let its compact dimensions fool you—this van can go places where larger and more expensive SUVs might hesitate. Suzuki has stayed true to its mission of delivering a **small, lightweight 4×4** that can handle serious off-roading, making the Jimny LCV the perfect companion for adventurous drivers or businesses operating in rugged environments.
Interior and Practicality: Compact Yet Functional
Inside the Jimny LCV, it’s clear that space is at a premium. The **footwells are tight**, and the driver and passenger will need to be comfortable with the cozy layout. The dashboard is simple and functional, without the central touchscreen that has become standard in many modern vehicles. It may not win any awards for interior luxury, but it’s built to last, with durable materials and practical controls.
Since this is a commercial vehicle, the rear seats have been removed to create more cargo space. This modification allows the Jimny LCV to offer a **usable load area of 863 liters**, which is **33 liters more** than the previous Jimny’s cargo capacity with the rear seats folded flat. The result is a compact yet highly functional load space, perfect for carrying tools, equipment, or other cargo.
Safety Features: Well-Equipped for the Road
Suzuki hasn’t skimped on safety features in the Jimny LCV. It includes the brand’s **Dual Sensor Brake Support** system, which provides **automatic emergency braking** if a potential collision is detected. This system issues warnings and can even apply the brakes to help avoid or minimize a crash. Additional features such as **Hill Holder**, **Emergency Assist**, and **Tire Pressure Monitoring** further enhance the vehicle’s safety.
While it may lack the latest tech found in luxury vehicles, the Jimny LCV focuses on keeping drivers safe both on and off the road.
Running Costs: A Modest but Efficient Choice
The Suzuki Jimny LCV may not have the most modern engine, but its running costs are quite manageable. The **1.5-liter petrol engine** returns an average of **36.7 mpg**, with **CO2 emissions of 173 g/km**. While these figures are not particularly impressive for a small vehicle, the Jimny’s light weight and 4×4 capabilities offset the slightly higher emissions and fuel consumption.
Servicing costs are kept in check with Suzuki’s **fixed price servicing package**, available after the vehicle has been registered for three years. This package covers **parts, labor, and VAT**, making it easier to budget for regular maintenance. The Jimny LCV also comes with Suzuki’s standard **three-year, 60,000-mile warranty**. While this warranty may not be as long as some competitors’, it does come with the option to extend coverage at an additional cost.
Pricing and Value: Is the Jimny LCV Worth It?
Suzuki has priced the Jimny LCV at around **£16,796 ex-VAT**, making it a competitively priced commercial vehicle with serious off-road capabilities. For businesses or individuals needing a van that can handle tough terrain, this price point makes it an attractive option. However, the Jimny LCV’s **payload capacity** is limited to **150 kg**, which is significantly lower than what most commercial vehicles can carry.
Despite this, there’s nothing else quite like the Jimny LCV on the market, especially when you consider its **off-road prowess**. Comparable vehicles, like the **Toyota Land Cruiser** and **Land Rover Defender** in their commercial forms, cost significantly more—often more than double the price of the Jimny.
Conclusion: The Jimny LCV—A Unique Blend of Practicality and Fun
The Suzuki Jimny LCV is a unique vehicle that combines the ruggedness of a 4×4 with the practicality of a commercial van. While it may not offer the same cargo capacity or luxury as larger commercial vehicles, its off-road capability and compact size make it an appealing choice for those who need a tough, go-anywhere vehicle for light commercial tasks.
If you’ve always liked the idea of the Suzuki Jimny but never considered it as a work vehicle, now is your chance. The Jimny LCV retains everything that made the original Jimny popular—its quirky design, its incredible off-road capability, and its affordability—while adding commercial practicality.
Interested in learning more? Check out this detailed review: Suzuki Jimny LCV Review.