Overall I was very happy with the experience. I went in with very low expectations and came back pleasantly surprised.
BHPian prateekswarup recently shared this with other enthusiasts.
So took 2 test drives of the Jimny in the last couple of weeks. Both were of the AT.
Some observations:
What I liked:
- Loved the old-school feel of the engine, gearbox, and overall dynamics.
- Very well put together – great damping
- Great suspension – went over bumps and undulations at both low and high speed with confidence. No jarring felt in the cabin.
- AT gearbox and engine are tuned well. You do not feel the lag and accelerator inputs do help in shifting the gears to keep the engine in the power band
- High-speed handling on the expressway at speed limits was good. You hear some wind noise, and engine noise at triple-digit speeds, and you will feel the speed post 90 km/hr. This is very similar to the older Grand Vitara (2.0).
- It is in no way unnerving but involving.
- I was doing 100km/ht at around 3k RPM.
- I’m 5’7” and I found the seat just right & comfortable.
What could be better:
- Storage space all around the cabin
- Foot-well area is a little cramped. Not sure how it will be comfortable in long-distance touring
- Rear seat space is strictly 2 seater. We tried with 3 people and not an option for anything less than extremely short hauls.
- Rear seat comfort and padding are okay. The recline angle at its max is still upright. The cushioning might need more under thigh support.
- The turning radius was quite large. Felt it taking U-turns.
- Slightly heavy steering. Parallel parking in closed spaces required considerable effort.
Overall I was very happy with the experience. I went in with very low expectations and came back pleasantly surprised. I am now seriously considering taking the Alpha AT.
Keyword: Maruti Jimny AT: 8 reasons why a 2007 Grand Vitara owner was impressed