Category: suzuki

May 15

Suzuki’s Jimny Heritage Is the Coolest Version of the Cult SUV Yet

As Americans, we lead a pretty privileged life. There’s really not a whole lot we can legitimately complain about without getting eye-rolls from many other corners of the world. But there are some aspects of being an American that are undoubtedly annoying. Depending on how into 4x4s you are, the fact that the Suzuki Jimny SUV is not available to U.S. consumers may rank at the top of the list.

The Jimny — a quirky yet endearing diminutive off-roader — left the U.S. market with the rest of Suzuki’s automotive lineup back in 2012, and its continued inaccessibility is a sore spot among a certain sect of car enthusiasts. Now, as if to taunt us further, Suzuki has launched what might just be the coolest and most desirable Jimny variant I’ve ever seen in the new Jimny XL Heritage.

Suzuki Jimny XL Heritage

Retro Cars Down Under

The new vehicle is a retro version of the Jimny XL, which itself is a bigger version of the standard Jimny that has a longer wheelbase and five doors instead of three. The special edition is called “Heritage” because of its old-school aesthetics inspired by the Jimnys of the 1970s, ’80s and ’90s, including orange-and-red striped decals, red mudflaps and a Heritage cargo tray.

Outside of the stylistic changes, it’s the same Jimny XL, which means you’re getting Suzuki’s ALLGRIP PRO 4×4 system, a 9″ touchscreen infotainment center with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 1.5L I4 engine tied to a five-speed manual transmission. (Unlike on the standard Jimny XL, there’s no automatic option on the Heritage.)

suzuki jimny suv seen from the sideSuzuki
Jul 12

The Suzuki Cappuccino: How a Tiny Engine Powers a Fun Driving Experience

Compact Design and Kei Car Regulations

The Suzuki Cappuccino, produced from 1991 to 1998, was a delightful alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Designed to adhere to Kei car regulations in Japan, it featured a compact 657 cc turbocharged inline-three engine. Although it was not available in the U.S., this quirky roadster made waves in European markets with its unique blend of style and performance.

Lightweight and Agile Performance

What makes the Suzuki Cappuccino thrilling despite its modest 63 horsepower is its incredibly light weight. At just 1,543 lbs, it is roughly 29% lighter than the early Mazda MX-5 Miata. This low curb weight, combined with its balanced design, enhances the driving experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy the roadster’s nimbleness and responsiveness without breaking speed limits.

Engineering Innovations and Enthusiast Appeal

The Cappuccino incorporated several engineering techniques to maximize performance from its small engine. It featured a turbocharged and intercooled setup, and its dual overhead cam (DOHC) design improved engine efficiency. Although the horsepower may seem modest, the combination of these features, along with an optional limited-slip differential and standard four-wheel disc brakes, contributes to a driving experience that remains exciting and engaging.

Fans of the Suzuki Cappuccino appreciate its dynamic handling and the joy of driving a lightweight sports car. As imports have become more accessible since 2016, the Cappuccino has developed a devoted following among enthusiasts, with its appeal continuing to grow among younger generations.