GROWING PAINS

THE LONG WHEELBASE JIMNY XL ADDS SPACE AND USABILITY TO THE LITTLE SUZUKI, WHILE THE LIMITED EDITION HERITAGE MODEL AMPS UP THE RETRO VIBES

- MATT RAUDONIKIS

IT'S hard to believe that the JB74 version of the Suzuki Jimny has been with us for five years... and during that time it has been a huge success in Australia. The diminutive 4x4 has been so popular that long wait times became normal if you wanted a new Jimny and Suzuki soon upped prices to match the demand.

With its cute yet boxy styling being such a hit for fans there was soon talk of expanding the range of Jimny variants from just the three-door wagon. Talk and computer-generated images of long wheelbase and ute versions of the Jimny were popping up everywhere, and the public couldn't wait to see them happen, prompting some enthusiasts to create their own versions.

The first official variant of the stretched JB74 is now with us as the Jimny XL. This is a five-door wagon that makes the Jimny more versatile by adding extra space for both passengers and luggage, and easier access via a second set of doors.

The XL adds 340mm to the overall length of the Jimny with the same amount between the axles to give it a 2590mm wheelbase. The Jimny XL still only has seats for four passengers but the luggage capacity behind the rear seat is up to 211 litres from just 85L in the SWB model.

For our first test of the Jimny XL we've scored the Heritage limited edition which adds extras including model-specific retro decals and badge, red front and rear mud flaps, luggage tray, and a Jimny Heritage merchandise pack.

Just 500 of the manual-only Jimny XL Heritage models will be made available in Australia starting at $36,990 plus ORC. That's a $1500 jump over the regular price of the Jimny XL but the Heritage edition of the three-door Jimny sold out so fast we expect this one to do likewise.

An automatic transmission is available in the regular Jimny XL priced at $36,490. Automatic models also get adaptive cruise control, while the manual Jimny makes do with regular cruise so no great loss.