The Suzuki Jimny has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts and compact SUV lovers for its rugged charm, distinctive design, and impressive off-road capability. With the recent release of the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door, the brand has expanded on the already capable 3-door version to offer more space, enhanced comfort, and improved road manners, all while maintaining its off-road prowess. In this review, we tested the 5-door Jimny both on the bustling roads of Metro Manila and on the rugged trails heading to the Field and Stream Campsite in Tanay, Rizal.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is a 1.5-liter K15B inline-4 engine that generates around 101 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque. This engine, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission, provides a solid balance between city driving and off-road performance. The engine isn’t the most powerful in its class, but it is more than sufficient for both urban commuting and the demands of off-road adventures.
On the road, the Jimny feels lively enough, offering adequate acceleration despite its relatively small engine output. It’s not a speedster, but it is nimble, allowing easy maneuvering through the heavy traffic of Metro Manila. The 4WD drivetrain, coupled with the ALLGRIP Pro off-road system, ensures that the Jimny maintains its traction and composure whether in the city or on offroad excursions.
When it came to our off-road test on the trail leading to the Field and Stream Campsite, the Jimny proved its worth. With its low-range transfer case and rigid ladder frame, the 5-door variant tackled rocky paths, mud pits, and steep inclines without hesitation. Whether navigating through tight trails or crossing uneven terrain, the Jimny held its own, making it clear that this compact SUV is more than just a pretty face for city driving.
Tires and Suspension
The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels and rugged Brigestone Dueler H/L All-Terrain tires (195/80R150) that strike the right balance between off-road grip and on-road comfort. These tires, while not as aggressive as specialized off-road tires, are more than capable of handling the mixed surfaces encountered both in Metro Manila and the off-road trails of Tanay.
The suspension setup consists of solid live axles sprung by coils at the front and leaf springs at the rear, which, while simple offers solid performance. On city roads, the Jimny absorbs bumps reasonably well for a vehicle with such an off-road focus. However, on rougher terrain, the suspension shines, providing adequate articulation and controlled body roll as the vehicle navigates obstacles. The suspension’s durability is particularly noticeable on the off-road trail, where the Jimny’s ability to absorb shocks from rocks and deep ruts makes the ride more manageable and less jarring for passengers.
Features and Comfort
Features and ComfortDespite its small size, the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door doesn’t compromise much on comfort or features. The cabin is surprisingly spacious for a compact 4×4, offering comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The rear seats are a welcome addition, as the 3-door version often struggled to accommodate more than two passengers comfortably.
The infotainment system in the 5-door variant includes a 7-inch touchscreen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While it’s not the most advanced system on the market, it offers basic connectivity features for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calls. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, and there are multiple USB ports to keep devices charged during the journey.
When it comes to safety, the Jimny is equipped with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and Hill Hold Control. These safety features add a layer of confidence, especially when driving in the city or tackling tricky off-road conditions. However, advanced driver-assistance systems like lane-keeping assist or adaptive cruise control are not present on the 5-door Jimny, which may disappoint some buyers used to more tech-heavy vehicles.
Off-Road Tech
The Jimny’s off-road capabilities are where it truly shines. The ALLGRIP Pro 4WD system offers selectable 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD low-range settings, which can be easily engaged via a lever inside the cabin. This system ensures optimal traction, whether you’re driving on tarmac, gravel, mud, or steep inclines.
The Hill Descent Control is a standout feature, allowing the Jimny to descend steep trails without requiring the driver to apply the brakes manually. This feature proved invaluable on the downhill sections of our Tanay trail, where the vehicle maintained a steady and controlled pace.
Driving Impressions in Metro Manila
Navigating the busy streets of Metro Manila, the Jimny 5-Door’s compact size proved to be an asset. It’s small enough to squeeze into tight parking spots and easily maneuver through traffic, while still offering the elevated view of a true SUV. The 4-speed automatic transmission we tested allowed for worry-free gear selection, although you might feel the final drive gear ratio a little short for expressway driving. But the same gear ratios are a godsend when you venture off the asphalted/cemented roads of the city.
On long drives, road noise can be a bit pronounced due to the off-road tire choice, and the ride, while comfortable for short trips, becomes a bit rougher over extended periods. However, the cabin’s simple design and straightforward layout keep distractions to a minimum, making the driving experience easy to adapt to.
Off-Roading to Field and Stream Campsite
The true test of the Jimny’s capabilities came on the rugged trail heading towards the Field and Stream Campsite in Tanay, Rizal. The off-road trail, which features rocky paths, steep inclines, and muddy sections, is a prime environment for the Jimny to showcase its strengths.
The low-range 4WD proved to be invaluable as the Jimny tackled the muddy sections without any issues. The hill descent control made downhill drives more controlled, and the AllGrip Pro system offered optimal traction through tricky rocky sections. Even in tight, narrow trails, the Jimny’s compact size allowed it to navigate with ease, where larger 4x4s would have struggled.
By the time we reached the campsite, the Jimny had proven that it can be just as comfortable in the great outdoors as it is on city streets.
The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is an exceptional combination of urban practicality and off-road readiness. It’s the perfect vehicle for individuals who need a compact SUV capable of handling both the chaos of city life and the roughness of nature. While it may not have the most advanced tech or the largest engine in its class, it makes up for it with rugged dependability, a charming design, and real off-road capabilities that rival larger, more expensive 4x4s.
The 2025 Suzuki Jimny 5-Door offers a fun mix of colors and variants to match your adventurous spirit. With six stunning color options, including the sleek Arctic White Pearl, bold Sizzling Red Metallic, and earthy Metallic Jungle Green, there’s a shade for every personality. For those who crave a bit more flair, the GLX AT variant also comes in dual-tone colors, taking style to the next level. Pricing starts at ₱1,558,000 for the base GL MT, while the GLX AT variant is priced at ₱1,698,000, with the dual-tone version stepping up to ₱1,708,000. For the ultimate off-road enthusiast, the Rhino Edition adds exclusive features, starting at ₱1,739,000 for the monotone version and ₱1,749,000 for the two-tone. Whether you’re hitting the city streets or the rugged trails, the Jimny 5-Door offers style, versatility, and an adventurous edge—all at an attractive price point.
For those seeking a fun, no-nonsense vehicle to handle daily commuting and weekend adventures, the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is a solid choice. Whether you’re navigating Metro Manila’s congested streets or exploring the trails leading to the Field and Stream Campsite, the Jimny stands out as a versatile, go-anywhere machine.