Wander DUST

The Jimny is the quintessential goanywhere car, but can it aspire to match the status of its spiritual ancestor - the iconic Gypsy? 

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny occupies a unique niche in the Indian automotive industry. Familiar to many as an off-beat lifestyle vehicle with a boxy design, its T lesser-known distinction lies in its role as the spiritual and literal successor of the legendary Gypsy - an iconic SUV deeply entrenched in Indian folklore, given its tales of triumph and success not just on our roads but also on our challenging frontiers where the very notion of roads often fades away. Renowned for its unparalleled versatility, the Gypsy was the go-to vehicle for any task at hand.

So, can the Jimny even aspire to come close? Also, with a burgeoning array of options vying for customer attention in the bustling Indian automotive market, the Jimny indeed has its work cut out for it. So, in our search for the answer, we decided to put the Jimny to test in one of our favourite playgrounds - Haridwar.

WHY HARIDWAR?

While Haridwar is a religious hub, we think of it as something more – a place that also serves as a definitive litmus test for gauging a car’s performance in the real world. It offers a comprehensive range of terrains and driving conditions – a seamless highway, bustling urban traffic, narrow lanes, picturesque back roads with winding corners, and sprawling landscapes conducive to off-road exploration. Such a dynamic setting allows us to truly unravel the essence of a car.

THE RIDE OVER

The road to Haridwar has evolved over time. Thankfully, today, the moment you exit Delhi, you find yourself on a well-maintained stretch of smooth tarmac, which extends all the way to Haridwar. With a high-set commanding driving position, the Jimny offers a great view of the road all around you, instilling a sense of confidence.