Suzuki's Jimny 5-Door: Who Will it Compete With?

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【Summary】Suzuki is set to release the Jimny 5-door, an off-road vehicle, later this year. In the South African market, it will face limited competition in the R500,000 price range. However, the BAIC B40 and Renault Duster 4WD are two potential rivals. The BAIC B40 offers affordability and a powerful turbo diesel engine, while the Renault Duster is popular for its frugality and spaciousness. The Mahindra Thar, an Indian-built SUV, was excluded as it will only be available in an electrified version.

FutureCar Staff Sep 04, 2023 12:33 AM PT

Suzuki's Jimny 5-Door: Who Will it Compete With?

Suzuki recently showcased their upcoming Jimny 5-door model at the Festival of Motoring, sparking excitement among off-roading enthusiasts. As we eagerly await its arrival later this year, let's take a closer look at the segment it will be entering and the competitors it will face.

When it comes to the 5-door off-road market in South Africa, options are somewhat limited, especially in the price range of around R500,000. There aren't many vehicles that offer the same capabilities and features as the Jimny 5-door. However, Suzuki's compact Japanese model will need to prove itself against the existing offerings in the local market, considering its naturally aspirated engine and relatively compact dimensions.

One of the more affordable contenders in the full-size segment of 4x4s is China's BAIC B40. With a starting price of under R600,000, the BAIC B40 shares some stylistic cues with established off-roaders. It boasts a larger frame compared to the Jimny and is powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine.

Another competitor in the market is the Renault Duster 4WD. Known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, the Renault Duster has gained popularity in South Africa. While the front-wheel-driven entry-level models make up the majority of sales, the 4WD variant offers capable off-road performance and ample cargo space for families.

If an off-road SUV doesn't meet your needs, Renault has also confirmed that the unibody double-cab Oroch bakkie will be available in South Africa soon.

It's worth mentioning the Indian-built Mahindra Thar, although it won't be arriving in South Africa with an internal combustion engine. Instead, Mahindra plans to introduce a fully electrified version of the Thar.

With these contenders in mind, which vehicle would you choose to spend your money on? Visit CARmag to explore a wide range of new and used cars.