Suzuki Jimny XL Review: Extra Space, Same Off-Road Prowess?

content: The Bigger Jimny Dilemma

If you love the Suzuki Jimny's off-road spirit but need back-seat access or cargo space, the 2024 Jimny XL seems like the solution. Suzuki stretched the wheelbase by 340mm and added rear doors, creating their most practical Jimny ever. But after testing this extended 4WD on challenging Blue Mountains trails, I can confirm what matters most: The XL retains nearly all the standard Jimny's legendary off-road agility while adding genuine family usability. This isn't a compromise vehicle—it's a smart evolution for adventurers who occasionally carry passengers or gear.

Why Size Matters (and Doesn’t)

The XL's 2590mm wheelbase (vs 2250mm in the 3-door) increases overall length to 3,985mm. Crucially, departure angle drops slightly from 49° to 47°, and ramp-over angle decreases more noticeably from 28° to 24°. Many assumed this would cripple off-road performance. During my technical climb test, however, the Jimny XL defied expectations. Its lightweight 1,145kg body and coil-sprung live axles maintained traction effortlessly. The longer wheelbase actually enhanced stability on steep inclines where the shorter model can feel tippy. You lose some extreme rock-crawling agility but gain everyday versatility without sacrificing core capability.

Practicality Upgrades Examined

Stepping inside the Jimny XL reveals where those extra millimetres pay off. Rear legroom is now viable for adults under 6ft—a stark contrast to the standard model’s token back seats. Cargo space jumps 250% to 211 litres (1,113 litres seats folded). But practical limitations remain:

• Rear seat comfort: Two adults fit width-wise, but shoulders will touch
• Storage solutions: Minimal cabin storage; no rear air vents or USB ports
• Seat folding: Rear seats don’t fold flat, creating a loading hump

Build quality impressed me despite the shift to Indian manufacturing. Hard plastics dominate, but textures and panel gaps showed no noticeable drop from Japanese-built models. The new 9-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay is a welcome upgrade over previous systems.

Off-Road Performance Verdict

On rugged Blue Mountains tracks, the XL delivered a masterclass in nimble 4WDing. The 1.5L petrol engine’s modest 75kW/130Nm output becomes an asset off-road—low-range gearing and precise throttle control let you crawl over obstacles without wheel spin. I conquered steep, rutted ascents that would challenge larger 4WDs, thanks to:

• 210mm ground clearance clearing most obstacles
• Part-time 4WD system with shift-on-the-fly capability
• Traction control that intervenes seamlessly when wheels lift

The reduced angles only became apparent during one extreme rock step. For 95% of off-road enthusiasts, the XL’s performance remains class-leading. As I navigated tight forest trails, the extra length felt negligible—this is still one of the most agile and fun 4WDs money can buy.

Ownership Considerations

Priced from $34,990 (manual) or $36,490 (auto) plus on-roads, the XL commands a $3,000 premium over the 3-door. Choose carefully:

• Manual vs Automatic: The 4-speed auto ($1,500 extra) simplifies off-road crawling but lacks modern refinement
• Payload advantage: 345kg capacity allows roof racks or camping gear
• Modification potential: Aftermarket support for lifts, tires, and protection is extensive

Essential Jimny XL Toolkit

Immediate Upgrades:

1. Install all-terrain tires (stock highway rubber limits capability)
2. Add seat covers—the fabric stains easily after muddy adventures
3. Fit rear cargo mats to protect from wet gear

Recommended Resources:

• The Jimny Builder’s Handbook (Cameron’s 4WD, $39) for modification guidance
• OBDRIVE phone mounts (suits narrow dash perfectly)
• Jimny Owners Australia Facebook Group (best troubleshooting community)

The Final Assessment

The Suzuki Jimny XL solves the original’s biggest flaw—usability—without neutering its off-road soul. You gain functional rear seats and cargo space while retaining 90% of the trail-conquering magic. Yes, the cabin is noisy on highways, the engine feels underpowered, and rear comfort is basic. But if you prioritize adventure over asphalt refinement, this is the most versatile small 4WD available. After testing both models back-to-back, I’d choose the XL every time—the minor off-angle reductions are a fair trade for real-world practicality.

"Which matters more on your adventures: maximum ramp-over angle or being able to carry a second passenger comfortably? Share your priority in the comments!"