Suzuki Jimny review by Paul Beard

We loaned our Suzuki Jimny demonstrator to motoring writer and loyal Tracks customer, Paul Beard. Here’s what he had to say:

“Over the years, the Suzuki Jimny has become a motoring icon and actually traces its roots back half a century to the first LJ variant launched in 1970. The latest version of Suzuki’s evergreen offroader made its much-anticipated debut here at the start of 2019, with a much boxier design that has been likened to Mercedes’ G-Wagen and Land Rover’s original, and now defunct, Defender – icons in their own right. It is a diminutive version of these of course but also costs a lot less. Don’t think that the cheaper price tag and smaller size makes the Jimny any less capable; it has enormous off-road ability and is renowned in its sector.

This particular car, which was very kindly loaned to me by Tracks Suzuki, Exeter for the weekend, is clothed in a very sharp ‘Brisk Blue’ coat of paint which really stands out, gaining a number of approving looks and comments from friends and passers-by. When I parked in the supermarket car park, a 2004 Jimny pulled in next door and the driver commented what a lovely car the new model was and said “Want to do a swap?” – he had owned his since new and still loved it. That’s the thing with the Jimny, it has a large loyal following and appeals to all sorts of people and for many different reasons. The exterior design, as I mentioned, is boxy and now has a really sharp appearance where the outgoing model was a bit rounded and out of date looking. In this the higher SZ5 spec, you get LED headlights with power wash, rear privacy glass, 15″ alloy wheels and heated mirrors. This being Tracks’ demo car, they wanted to up the spec to show what is achievable, so the wheels and roof are painted black, there are side window air deflectors, silver front bumper and side sill trims and most noticeably, of course, are those fantastic looking BF Goodrich All-Terrain tyres. For my review, I kept to roads but actually found it more pleasurable an experience than I expected. There are some drawbacks though, as we will discover.

Jimny is a three-door car and so the doors are wider and access to the driver’s seat is easy. Once safely ensconced, you realize what a great little cabin this is. Admittedly, there isn’t a huge amount of elbow room, especially when two up but you do sit high up and get a great view across the fully visible bonnet. The seats are comfy and heated for those chilly starts and it is easy to get an ideal driving position; all controls fall easily to hand too. In front of you is an easy to read dash cluster that looks quite retro with its two square bezels surrounding the speedo and rev counter and the orange on black numbers. In the middle, there is a really handy touchscreen infotainment system and this includes sat-nav, DAB radio and shows what the optional rear camera sees. A chunky, leather-clad, three-spoke steering wheel houses controls for cruise control, volume and telephony. Storage on the other hand is not great, with narrow door bins, small glovebox and a token tray in front of the two gear levers. On the flip side of this though is that as accessing the rear seats is very tricky, unless you are a contortionist, and even if you do complete this task, the experience is not one of comfort, why not keep the seats folded and have a nice big load area for shopping, or animal food, or horse tack, or a dog, or… you get the picture!

You don’t buy a Suzuki Jimny if you want to go fast: top speed is 90 MPH and the 0-60 dash takes about 14.5 seconds. However, if you like sitting up high in a rugged little 4×4 that will take you on many adventures, on the road and off, this is the car for you. With its brick-like styling, permanent four-wheel drive and low ratio gears, all conspiring to increase the amount of fuel required, the average of 36 MPG isn’t too bad at all and CO2 at 178 is bearable. Out on the open road, I found the Jimny to be a fun little car that is easy to drive and you soon get used to the gear whine that comes through. With the chunky tyres, potholes and bumps are easily soaked up and the ride is not bad considering what sort of car this is; the steering has a good feel but is not greatly communicative. Roll in corners is to be expected and is certainly present; again though it could be worse. I was impressed with the braking: there is a solid feel under your foot and competent stopping power when required. This is a more robust feeling car than other Suzukis but then it needs to be bearing in mind the off-road capability that allows you to pretend you are a mountain goat! This is achievable thanks to Suzuki’s All Grip permanent four-wheel drive system and low transfer box.

Basically, I loved this little Jimny. It was funky, cheeky, stylish, fun and stands out in the crowd due to the lovely blue paint scheme, more muted colours are available if you don’t want to be so conspicuous, and square design. On the flip side though, storage is not great, it only has two doors, it’s not that economical and it’s a bit noisy at times – not terribly practical then. If these niggles don’t worry you and you want something a bit different that can take you just about anywhere you want and parks in space that most cars would struggle with, this could be the car for you. There are still cars available but you’ll have to be quick if you want one. I am very grateful to Tracks Suzuki, Exeter for the loan of this Jimny.”

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Customer Reviews

Jay C.
1710592382
Amazing customer care as always.
Jean-Pierre R.
1710003786
I found Will Braddick (and the other members of the sales team we interacted with) highly professional, friendly and just a pleasure to deal with during our search for a used Suzuki. It's great to have such an outstanding dealership in Exeter.
Dennis L.
1709818309
Efficient friendly and prompt service, with a friendly smile
Sam C.
1709287792
Tracks Suzuki is quite honestly the best dealership I have ever set foot in. I purchased a Swift SZ3 from Tracks in July 2021, after being intrigued by some of my family members, who, at one point, had *four* Suzuki’s on their driveway!Since then, I’ve honestly never looked back. I have sadly dealt with various car garages who have proven to not be overly trust worthy, or have your best interests at heart. However, thanks to Tracks, they have completely and undeniably restored my faith in car dealerships.As of February this year, 2024, I returned to Tracks to seek my next vehicle. After experiencing an amazing customer service over the last two years, Tracks was my first choice. And, of course, they did not disappoint. The service plans at Tracks are so affordable, and yet seem to have a variety of options and lengthy cover for all aspects of your vehicle. It takes the stress out of potentially paying large, one off payments. The team go above and beyond to help you with anything you need, as well as being incredibly warm, friendly, and approachable people.I would like to express my particular gratitude to Anita and Dave on the Aftersales team. They are both an absolute pleasure to work with, and can’t do enough for you should there ever be any circumstances or issues that might be tricky to work around.Lastly, a big thank you to Jack, on the Sales team, who has just sold me my beautiful SX4 S-Cross. I came to Jack with a rather picky list of criteria for my next car, and without shadow of a doubt, Jack exceeded all of my expectations. Not just the spec, or the car itself, but consideration of the price range, after care, and any requirements for an effortless handover. Jack always made himself available to me, whenever I needed to ask a question or seek his support. And everytime, he was so reassuring, kind, helpful, and generally just made this whole process nothing but genuinely enjoyable, fun, and effortless. This is by far the best way I could ever imagine buying a car.I love Tracks Suzuki. It’s the best place, and I will always be its no.1 supporter! I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else now, and I wouldn’t change that for the world either!
Linda S.
1709117668
Great customer focus, courtesy car provided for my annual service, plus valeting. All proceeded smoothly.
Chris
1709030777
Friendly helpful service as always
James W.
1708624719
Purchased my first Vitara new from Tracks exeter in 2016. Have since used them exclusively for MOTs and servicing. Cannot fault front desk personnel... Anita and David... Always very efficient, courteous and helpful. Cars always cleaned afterwards. Keep up the good work
Kate B.
1708521971
My Ignis was in for a service and this was done professionally and very well. A great team at Tracks who are always friendly. Iggy was also a lot cleaner than when we brought him in.
Ellie H.
1708433063
Just bought a Suzuki Vitara from Tracks Suzuki! What a pleasurable experience. Came up looking at one car, which wasn’t to my liking, however was quickly shown something more to my taste. After looking around at different garages, I retuned to Tracks as their customer service was perfect, they were keen to help me is every way possible and kept in contact whilst I was making my decision without being overbearing.
I have collected my car today, which was to an impeccable standard, brand new MOT and service. I was shown how to use different aspects of the car and then I was given the keys and had driven away in less than an hour! Perfect service! Thank you Jack for being so patient! It’s just what I was looking for.
john B.
1708357358
Recently part exchanged my Fiat for a used Suzuki Ignis. Very pleased with the deal and with the friendly and efficient service I received from William who sorted out all the paperwork and showed me how to operate its controls and adjust the seats. The car is a pleasure to drive and very economical on fuel, I have been averaging over 60 mpg so far.
Helen C.
1708183719
As usual, car was ready for collection ahead of time. Hassle-free, excellent customer service. Thank you to everyone at Tracks Exeter.
Kevin D.
1707996295
As per usual looked after fine and everyone friendly, top place.
John C.
1707565448
I have been in twice for regular service on my 2021 Suzuki that I bought from Tracks. The expereince is as good as it gets. You have a clean comfy place to wait, everyone is pleasant and the service is done in a flash.
Steve B.
1707511801
My wife always takes her car here for a service despite being three times further than her local suzuki dealer. Very, very friendly and efficient family-owned dealership
Barbara Y.
1707390762
Polite and professional service as always, thank you.
Roger H.
1707302651
Car in for MOT, as usual, polite efficient service and very friendly atmosphere.
alan P.
1706960118
Had a service/MOT yesterday. The customer service was brilliant as always. It's a pleasure to deal with Tracks, friendly, helpful and professional. Anita and Ollie were great. Thanks again
Barbara G.
1706347540
As a mobility customer from Williton. Just like to say how we miss your team at Taunton. We had support and help from your team. Thankyou new Suzuki no support. Shame
RobRoy M.
1706250495
Always a good experience.GREAT cars too!
Veronica A.
1706021560
Everyone was very helpful thank you all and enjoyed driving borrowed car
Mark A.
1705658587
What a great customer experience these guys have delivered! I purchased a new Jimny just before Xmas and at every touch point have been easy to deal with and knowledgable about their products. Awesome…
Frank L.
1705490176
Excellent service as per usual. If only every dealership was like Tracks of Exeter.
Jacqueline H.
1703938990
Absolutely fantastic. Sales gentleman William was so patient and can’t fault the whole service.
Malcolm S.
1703097428
Tracks is an excellent company to deal with, all aspects of their service has been exceptonal
Andrew H.
1703088987
Bravo Tracks! After the despair of finding Rowes Suzuki in Plymouth closed, I went to Tracks, even if it is twice the journey. They really could not have been better, an easy swap of service plan, an excellent major service, and a repair to the front wing leaving it looking showroom new. The whole attitude was highly efficient and welcoming. Cannot recommend enough.
Judi S.
1702290385
Excellent service. Were kept fully updated as to the progress of our vehicle. The staff were friendly and the waiting facilities were most comfortable. The coffee was great!
Helen F.
1700831451
Very pleased with the service that i received from Tracks Exeter always very helpful and professional
Sue B.
1700577157
Excellent garage excellent car, purchased Sept 2022, I did review positively when bought but wanted to update now that I have had my suzuki boosterjet over a year now. I have had no problems at all with my car, the service I received was 1st class by all in Exeter. I was worried as I'd never bought a car before without seeing it, but they put my mind at rest and kept me completely updated and delivered the car to me. They are fab
Steve W
1700047265
We recently bought our second Suzuki from Tracks and just had it serviced. It is so nice to see the same staff year after year, knowing they are the best. Edit: Unusually for Suzuki, we needed a warranty repair - this is why we stay with Tracks; they performed brilliantly getting us back on the road again.
Jer C
1699977454
Great experience from start to finish. Traded my car in for a used Suzuki Jimny. The new car was very well prepared and even came with a full tank of fuel. A nice touch and well appreciated. Jack was very helpful from day one and answered any questions I had. Well done guys!
Francesca H.
1699456768
Lovely friendly, helpful and expert staff and great care of my vehicle. Thank you Tracks 👍
Helen P.
1699451525
Always friendly efficient service. Thank you.
Jimi H.
1699040534
Emma D.
1698870305
Always excellent service for myself and now 2 of my sons
Karen W.
1698474239
I have just had my Suzuki serviced by Tracks in Exeter.I cannot fault the service i have received. Rob came to pick up my car and return it, so helpful and friendly and knowledgable. David went through all that had been done, professional, friendly, helpful.Indeed whenever I have had cause to call the garage all the staff have always been consistently good.Thank you all!
Andrew R.
1698140554
As ever, a welcome greeting & smile from Anita, service done well and on time.. A very professional company..
Mandi Brooks (.
1697901252
Couldn't of purchased a car from anywhere nicer. Staff are second to none. Made everything easy, kept up to date on the process. Extremely happy with our Vehicle and wouldn't hesitate to recommend to others
wayne A.
1697842507
Edwin M.
1696774185
Closed on a Sunday
Christine E.
1696341670
Very friendly and helpful crew, and Will was lovely. I am one Very happy customer.👌
Allison H.
1696003955
Excellent as always for a service and Mot. 😊
Mike B.
1695914161
Great cars and great staff, very helpful.
Amanda K.
1695163223
Excellent service, friendly competent staff, comfortable seating area.
Samuel W.
1694872701
Fair honest service from helpful staff. Among the better car 'showroom' experiences we have recently experienced. We would be very happy return.
Chris S.
1694857256
First class Service on Thursday from the Service Team...would highly recommend to everyone.
Sarah W.
1692881211
Excellent customer service, friendly and knowledgeable
Phil P.
1692875891
Great service. We dropped the car off the evening before and were able to pick it up before lunchtime the next day - Service and MOT. Despite all the works going on in the showroom everyone was thoughtful and straightforward and quick. Thankyou Tracks.
Jacqueline M.
1692710356
Car serviced. All good
Tina B.
1692546810
I took my car into Tracks, Exeter last week for a service and MOT. As usual, the attention was first class and very friendly. I would highly recommend using this Suzuki garage.
Mark D.
1692546162
We purchased our Suzuki Vitara two years ago from Tracks Suzuki.We previously delt with other mainstream car dealers and to be honest felt like a number !Tracks have been the polar opposite and nothing is too much trouble.Thanks to the Tracks Suzuki team
Jonty R.
1689331227
yet another great service provided by TRACKS EXETER friendly and helpful, can't fault their service, thank you
Sandra A.
1687972155
Service was even better than usual, so helpful and everyone so friendly and professional.
Debbie M.
1686419160
very friendly staff easy to book appointment to have my car mot
well done again regards Debbie Marchant
Jenny G.
1686391612
Service desk always helpful and cheerful. Standard of repair work very high
Philip B.
1664626431
everything went smoothly very professional and friendly plus a video of results.
Paul O.
1663311866
This was the 1st service for my Swift Sport Hybrid (which is such a great car by the way) and the service from the staff was every bit as good as the service on the car. Quick and efficient - well done!
Aj C.
1662855968
Absolutely 💯% service from this firm.
Thank you Jack for all your help.
Albert B.
1656327418
very helpful and quick a good service thank you
Greg B.
1655822860
Took my Grand Vitara in for the replacement of 3 engine pulleys. After speaking to the parts department booking was easy and trouble free. The job was done in under 2 hours and I was on my way. My car was even valeted inside for my return.
Great service! Well done Tracks Exeter.
Andrew M.
1655371382
Always a friendly welcome and everything so professional and well organised. Always a delight to go there.
Jenna M.
1654148123
Pleased with the service on my little blue! Friendly staff as always - a pleasure to deal with.
Jacqui W.
1653994839
as always excellent customer service and friendly staff. 100% recommend. ps The car is great too
Amy R.
1653171367
Just bought my Swift from Tracks and everyone I spoke to were amazing! I would definitely recommend; thank you to Jack who helped with my first query and to Jon for helping me with my chosen car. Everything was simple and done in a few days. Thank you!
Fiona B.
1652532571
Excellent customer service and aftercare. I bought my car from them 3 years ago and it goes back every year for a service and MOT. Such a friendly and helpful team. I could not be happier with the service I receive.
Jan B.
1651840497
Bought my car from them last year , excellent service , took it in yesterday for MOT and service and greeted with lovely lady , all documents ready to sign , keys to courtesy car there ready , she came out and explained few things and off I went . Returned to collect my car later , same lovely lady there and all paperwork there to collect . Thank you Tracks Exeter
Sam C.
1649966502
Sadly it’s sometimes difficult to find loyal, honest, and caring people to look after your car - however, I am so pleased that I chose Tracks Suzuki.

Whilst looking for my next car, I found it difficult narrowing down my options. With that being said, I was recommended Tracks by a family member, who was proud to have had nearly 3 Swift’s in the last 15 years! I was so glad I listened to their recommendation as Tracks couldn’t do enough to meet my requirements and I am very confident that I’d buy my next car from them too!

TracksCare is a great service/care plan for my Swift - it’s affordable, the service is great, it covers a lifetime warranty on your vehicle, and you can’t get much better than that. Free labour, discounted parts, and a complimentary coffee and valet too! (Made me feel better when I had to drop my car off first thing on an early morning!) 😉

The team are great and are always happy to help - they’re very accommodating and deal with you in a very professional and friendly approach. I would love to name a few people in particular but I wouldn’t want to be unfair to the rest of the team and therefore I think my appreciation must go towards the whole of Tracks itself, as I’m yet to come across a single person who doesn’t carry that great work ethic. I purchased my Swift from Taunton and now go to the Exeter dealership due to it being more local and both places are equally as great to work with.

Thank you Tracks!
Chris M.
1644672373
Have never gone any where else for my new cars or servicing and never will. Steve and Aaron were top notch as always and even got talked in to a service plan by Aaron 👍.
Helen W.
1644335528
Friendly fantastic service.
Christine L.
1643284194
tracks taunton very friendly staff easy to book appointment to have car fixed kept updated
Ray L.
1641936584
Outstanding service with superb attention by Jack Gardner....We now have 3 Suzukis from you and the service is brilliant....
Caroline S.
1641898015
very pleasant helpful and quick.
Sue G.
1639598228
Lovely people to deal especially Anita on Service and Jack in sales in Exeter
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