1996 Suzuki Jimny

ced by its condition. Sadly we were not able to verify the mileage, but the Jimny is up to date on maintenance, turn-key, and ready to pound some pavement stateside. Save for a few paint chips and minor spots of surface corrosion, like most Jimny models, the cosmetics are in good shape overall on this compact crawler. This turbo terror would be a treat on the trails, and it can also putt around town with ease. It’s evident this is a Japanese Classic, but we think it’s a model with killer staying power, and a fantastic investment too! The interior is well built, packed with amenities, and surprisingly spacious, given the Jimny’s small footprint. It’s finished in a funky blue patterned cloth, and the materials have held up well. The dash is utilitarian in design, but still loaded with equipment, like a fully functional climate control unit with cold A/C and hot heat. A USDM BOSS audio system lies adjacent, complete with Bluetooth functionality, and the hard plastics on the dash have resisted the past 29 years of use while withstanding an unwanted cracking, fading, or distortion. Should you require the Jimny for daily use, old-school crank windows, manual locks, and adjustable side mirrors work like a charm. The interior plastics and vinyl are clean, as are the carpets, but true to form for any 90’s vehicle, we must note some sagging on the headliner, an inoperable compass pack, and a removed rear bench. Still, that does little to take away the interior’s appeal, and we think the next owner will love its condition. Even the original owner’s manual is on hand from a prior life. The K6A under the bonnet is a spritely mill and perfectly complements the Jimny’s small stature. This 667cc powerplant is known to hold its own, but not without a proper service performed by our trained technicians! To start, a new 12v battery was tossed in to aid ignition. An oil and filter service helps this Jimny chug along, and gets you on track for future maintenance schedules. A new A/C belt keeps the freon pumping, and we buttoned the turbocharged mill up with a new water pump. A new valve cover gasket keeps the oil internal, and with the maintenance performed this Jimny unleashes all 64hp as it jets up to speed. Nimble about town, this small SUV feels most comfortable up to 50mph, where it starts to lose its agility. Regardless, the Jimny is an off-road all star, and a 5 speed manual gearbox shifts smoothly and throws power straight to a selective transfercase. With locking front hubs, and real-deal low gearing, 4WD is easy to engage, and one trip off the beaten path is all it takes to see why the Jimny is Japan’s off-road weapon of choice. The lifted suspension cruises comfortably, and benefits from new rear radius arm bushings, front panhard bar bushings, and a fresh four wheel alignment. We also replaced the front right wheel bearing to keep the drivetrain compliant. The remaining suspension components passed state inspection with flying colors, however we did want to note some of the front components are starting to show their age. The steering is agile and easy to direct, and the brakes do a swell job at stopping this lightweight SUV. The Falken Rubitrek rubber is knee deep in tread and looks great on the aftermarket alloys. Sure to stand out at the campground, or even parked on a city street, this lovable Suzuki is cooler than the other side of the pillow!