1-Year Suzuki Jimny JB74 Ownership Review: What I Love and What Needs Improvement!
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Description:
Welcome back to LowRangeNick! It’s been a year since I first laid my hands on the Suzuki Jimny JB74, and what a year it has been! In this in-depth review, I’ll be taking you through my 12-month journey with this off-roading icon. Whether you’re thinking about getting one or already own a Jimny, this comprehensive breakdown will give you all the insights you need. I’ll discuss what I love about this beast and where it could use some improvement, all from the perspective of a passionate Jimny owner.
1-Year Jimny JB74 Review: The Basics
Over the past year, I’ve taken my Jimny through all kinds of terrains—mountain trails, city streets, and everything in between. This little 4×4 packs a punch and has proven itself time and again in the toughest conditions. But like any vehicle, it has its strengths and weaknesses, and in this video, I’ll go over all of them.
Let’s dive into the following aspects:
Exterior and Design
Interior Comfort
Driving Experience
Off-Road Capabilities
On-Road Performance
Fuel Economy
1. Exterior and Design: Rugged Yet Modern
The first thing you’ll notice about the Jimny JB74 is its rugged, boxy design. It’s reminiscent of older, classic off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Mercedes-Benz G-Class but in a compact form. Suzuki nailed the retro styling, which makes the JB74 stand out in a world dominated by sleek crossovers and bulky SUVs.
Over the past year, I’ve found that its dimensions—short and tall with large wheel arches—are perfect for tight city spots and narrow off-road tracks. The flat, square shape makes visibility excellent, a huge plus for any off-roader.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The spare tire mounted on the rear door adds weight and makes it a bit cumbersome to open, especially when loaded with gear. But that’s a small price to pay for a vehicle that stays true to its off-road DNA.
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2. Interior Comfort: Simple but Functional
Inside, the Jimny JB74 keeps things simple. The dashboard is no-frills, with physical buttons and dials instead of a high-tech touchscreen that might be distracting off-road. Over the year, I’ve found this to be one of its greatest strengths. There’s less to go wrong when you’re out in the wild, far from any service center.
The front seats are comfortable for both short and long journeys, but the rear seats are a little tight, especially for taller passengers. The upright seating position, though, gives a commanding view of the road (or trail), which enhances both safety and the driving experience.
The materials used in the cabin are rugged and hard-wearing, great for muddy boots and wet clothes, but if you’re looking for luxury, this might not be the vehicle for you. It’s functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of off-roading rather than pamper you.
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3. Driving Experience: Fun and Engaging
One year in, and the Jimny JB74 still brings a smile to my face every time I drive it. There’s something incredibly satisfying about its simple, back-to-basics approach to driving. It’s no sports car, but the 1.5L engine provides enough power for both city driving and off-road adventures. It’s nimble and lightweight, which makes it surprisingly agile in tight spaces, whether you’re navigating a busy street or winding trails.
The 5-speed manual transmission is engaging and gives you a sense of connection with the vehicle. The short wheelbase also adds to the fun, although it can make for a bumpy ride on uneven roads.
However, the steering can feel a bit vague at higher speeds, and on highways, the Jimny’s tall profile means it’s susceptible to crosswinds. But for what it’s designed to do—off-roading—it excels.
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4. Off-Road Capabilities: A True Trail Blazer
Off the beaten path, the Jimny JB74 is an absolute legend. Over the past year, I’ve taken it on numerous off-road adventures, and it has never failed to impress. With its solid front and rear axles, part-time 4WD system, and low-range gearbox, this little SUV punches well above its weight.
The short wheelbase, combined with excellent approach, breakover, and departure angles, allows the Jimny to tackle steep inclines, sharp descents, and rocky trails with ease. Even on rough terrains, the suspension does a great job absorbing the bumps.
One of the highlights is the Hill Descent Control, which has come in handy on steep, slippery slopes.
Thanks for watching 🙂
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