The Suzuki Jimny III represents the third generation of Suzuki’s celebrated compact off-road vehicle, renowned globally for its rugged capability, diminutive size, and exceptional value. Introduced in 1998, this iteration of the Jimny quickly established itself as a go-anywhere machine, succeeding the popular Suzuki SJ series (known as Samurai, Sierra, or Katana in various markets). While not widely sold in the United States, the Jimny III found a strong niche in Europe, Asia, Australia, and other international markets, appealing to enthusiasts and those needing a capable, compact 4×4. The 1.3 (80 Hp) 4WD Automatic variant, produced between 1998 and 2000, combined robust mechanicals with the convenience of an automatic transmission, offering versatility for both urban and off-road driving.
Suzuki Jimny III: A Compact Off-Road Icon
The Jimny III continued Suzuki’s philosophy of building small, lightweight, and incredibly tough off-roaders, a heritage dating back to the original LJ series. Its design prioritized functionality over aesthetics, featuring a body-on-frame construction for superior durability and articulation compared to unibody SUVs. This generation evolved the Jimny’s styling towards a more modern, rounded aesthetic while retaining its utilitarian charm. Its compact dimensions, coupled with genuine four-wheel-drive capability, allowed it to navigate tight trails and congested city streets with ease, making it a beloved choice in its primary markets.
Engine & Performance
The 1998-2000 Suzuki Jimny III 1.3 (80 Hp) 4WD Automatic is powered by Suzuki’s G13BB engine, a naturally aspirated, 1.3-liter (1298 cm³ or 79.21 cu. in.) inline-four gasoline engine. Designed for reliability and efficiency, it features a Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for a broad powerband. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, a reliable method for its era, ensuring consistent fuel atomization and combustion.
The G13BB engine produces 80 horsepower (Hp) at 6000 rpm, providing sufficient power for the lightweight Jimny across various terrains. Torque figures stand at 76.71 lb.-ft. (104 Nm) peaking at 4500 rpm. While modest by contemporary standards, these numbers are well-suited to the Jimny’s purpose. Its light curb weight of 2270.76 lbs. (1030 kg) results in a weight-to-power ratio of 12.9 kg/Hp (77.7 Hp/tonne), providing a lively feel for its size and power output. The engine’s front, longitudinal layout contributes to balanced weight distribution and supports the robust drivetrain architecture.
Power is channeled through a 4-speed automatic transmission, offering ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic or during technical off-road maneuvers. The drivetrain is a part-time all-wheel-drive (4×4) system, primarily driving the rear wheels. The front wheels can be engaged via an electrically or mechanically operated clutch when additional traction is needed, making it a capable off-road performer. This setup is known for its durability and effectiveness in challenging conditions.
The Jimny III 1.3 (80 Hp) 4WD Automatic has a maximum speed of 83.89 mph (135 km/h), reflecting its utilitarian design. Fuel economy is a strong suit for a 4×4 of its era, with a combined rating of 28.3 US mpg (8.3 l/100 km). Urban driving yields approximately 23.1 US mpg (10.2 l/100 km), while extra-urban conditions can achieve up to 32.7 US mpg (7.2 l/100 km). Its 10.57 US gallon (40 l) fuel tank provides a decent cruising range.
Design & Features
The design of the Suzuki Jimny III prioritizes capability and durability. It features a classic 3-door off-road vehicle body type, seating four occupants. Its compact dimensions are key: 142.72 inches (3625 mm) in length, 62.99 inches (1600 mm) in width, and 67.13 inches (1705 mm) in height. The short wheelbase of 88.58 inches (2250 mm) contributes to its agility on tight trails, resulting in a minimum turning circle of 32.15 feet (9.8 m).
The Jimny III boasts significant ground clearance at 7.48 inches (190 mm). Combined with short front and rear overhangs (25 inches / 635 mm front, 29.13 inches / 740 mm rear), it achieves outstanding approach (42°), departure (46°), and ramp-over (31°) angles. These angles are critical for navigating steep inclines, declines, and uneven terrain without scraping the vehicle.
The suspension system enhances its off-road prowess. Both front and rear feature a rigid axle suspension with coil springs, known for durability, simplicity, and excellent articulation. While not offering the most refined on-road ride compared to independent systems, it is ideal for demanding conditions. Braking is handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, a common and effective combination for vehicles of this type. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety during emergency braking or on slippery surfaces. Steering is a cone worm with recirculation balls type, paired with hydraulic power steering, providing reliable control, particularly off-road. The vehicle rides on 205/70 R15 tires mounted on 6J x 15 wheel rims, balancing on-road comfort and off-road grip.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Suzuki |
| Model | Jimny |
| Generation | Jimny III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (80 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of Production | 1998 year |
| End of Production | 2000 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.2 l/100 km / 23.1 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.2 l/100 km / 32.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.3 l/100 km / 28.3 US mpg |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 135 km/h / 83.89 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp / 77.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.9 kg/Nm / 101 Nm/tonne |
| Engine Specs | |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per liter | 61.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 104 Nm / 76.71 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | G13BB |
| Engine displacement | 1298 cm³ / 1.3 l / 79.21 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm / 2.91 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 75.5 mm / 2.97 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l / 3.91 US qt |
| Coolant | 4.5 l / 4.76 US qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 1030 kg / 2270.76 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1420 kg / 3130.56 lbs. |
| Max load | 390 kg / 859.8 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l / 10.57 US gal |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 3625 mm / 142.72 in. |
| Width | 1600 mm / 62.99 in. |
| Height | 1705 mm / 67.13 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2250 mm / 88.58 in. |
| Front track | 1355 mm / 53.35 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1365 mm / 53.74 in. |
| Front overhang | 635 mm / 25 in. |
| Rear overhang | 740 mm / 29.13 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 190 mm / 7.48 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m / 32.15 ft. |
| Approach angle | 42° |
| Departure angle | 46° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 31° |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
The Suzuki Jimny III, particularly the 1.3 (80 Hp) 4WD Automatic variant from 1998-2000, holds a unique position in automotive history. Its legacy is built on unwavering reliability, exceptional off-road capability, and affordability. In its primary markets, it was not just a recreational vehicle but a workhorse for farmers, utility companies, and emergency services. Its simple mechanicals and robust design ensured longevity and performance in challenging environments. The Jimny III continued the successful lineage of Suzuki’s compact 4x4s, demonstrating their mastery in creating small, agile, and tough vehicles. Its enduring appeal paved the way for the highly acclaimed fourth-generation Jimny.
