A special edition is always a great way to get some extra kit with a new vehicle and save some money into the bargain – with the proviso that the kit is useful for you.
In this regard, Suzuki seem to have chosen the add ons for the Safari Special Edition of the Jimny well, as they are things many owners would add. The base vehicle for the Safari is the base model JX manual.
The most visual addition is the black ARB base roof rack with side rails and wind deflector. This provides a great platform for extra loads for what is a pretty small 4WD, you can add additional components from ARB’s range to further enhance the load carrying ability. The Base Rack has a recommended load capacity of 30kg.
In the ‘make it go better department’ there is a set of Maxxis Bravo 980 all-terrain 215/75R15 tyres, replacing the more road-oriented rubber on the standard Jimny. These are fitted to the standard steel rims from the JX model painted black.
Extra protection
Extra protection for off-road use comes from mudflaps front and rear, front window weather shields and a large rear cargo tray liner – ideal to throw your muddy recovery gear in! Looks are not neglected either with a Safari decal on the spare tyre disc cover and the special heritage grille.
The test vehicle was in the unique Safari hero colour of Bluish Black Pearl, this results in an all-black vehicle with the black wheels and roof rack combining for stunning looks. You can also get the normal Jimny colours of Jungle Green, Silky Silver, White and Medium Grey.
All this comes for an extra $3,000 over the base JX pricing at $29,990 providing good value. With no mechanical changes except for the AT tyres the Safari drives pretty much like any other Jimny, the test provided a nice refresher. With only 75kW on offer from the 1.5-litre engine the Jimny is not a powerhouse, but it gets along okay helped by the modest 1095kg weight. The five-speed manual is probably better suited to it than the four-speed auto available on the higher spec Sierra model, allowing you to keep the engine in the power band most of the time.
Fits through gaps
Suzuki claim an average fuel consumption of 6.4 l/100k, but with our mainly city and motorway running we saw closer to 8.5. The small size is a boon when parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces both on and off-road where Jimnys can fit through gaps between trees that bigger vehicles would baulk at.
The ATs don’t seem to add significant tyre noise, although the Jimny is not a quiet vehicle, whilst ride is pretty good for a vehicle with genuine off-road aspirations. The driver’s seat is comfortable, with good leg room and great visibility. The load space with the rear seats folded (which you need to do if using the load area liner) is good given the Jimny’s compact overall size.
The specification level is modest with an old fashioned (non-touch screen) audio unit – so consequently no reversing camera, Apple Car Play or Sat Nav (these are all available on the Sierra) – but you do get Bluetooth phone and audio support. You also get features such as cruise control, lane departure warning, dual sensor brake support and weaving alert.
Outside of utes, Jimny is one of a decreasing field of full ladder chassis true 4WD Vehicles with transfer case and selectable 2WD and 4WD. This makes it a great choice if you actually want to indulge in some serious off-road driving rather than just the off-beach or paddock access. Its cheeky good looks help it stand out from the crowd of me-too SUVs which adds to the appeal and the Safari extras have been pretty well thought out to appeal to users that want to make the most of their Jimny.
SPECIFICATIONS
Suzuki Jimny Safari SE
Engine:
1.5-litre petrol four
Power:
75kW @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
130Nm @ 4000rpm
Gearbox:
5-speed manual, H/L transfer case
Economy:
6.4 l/100km
Safety:
ANCAP 3 stars
Weight:
1095kg
Towing Capacity:
500kg unbraked,
900kg braked
Price: $29,990
