Toyota is gearing up to take on the Suzuki Jimny with its Land Cruiser Mini, set to be released in 2024. The Suzuki Jimny has enjoyed immense popularity, and Toyota aims to contest its dominance in the affordable off-roader segment. This upcoming release has off-road enthusiasts and budget-conscious car buyers eagerly awaiting its arrival.
The Suzuki Jimny: A Brief Overview
The current fourth-generation Suzuki Jimny, launched in 2018, is known for its no-frills, budget-friendly approach to off-roading. Built on a ladder frame chassis with low-range transfer case and part-time four-wheel drive, the Jimny offers impressive off-road capabilities. Its dimensions are compact, and it boasts remarkable approach, breakover, and departure angles.
However, the Jimny is not without its shortcomings. The interior quality is basic, and the seats lack support. With its naturally aspirated 1.2-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, it’s not a speed demon. The Jimny’s boxy shape makes highway driving less comfortable due to wind resistance.
The Land Cruiser Mini: Toyota’s Answer
Toyota’s response to the Suzuki Jimny is the Land Cruiser Mini. With extensive resources at its disposal, Toyota believes it can deliver a small off-roader that excels where the Jimny falls short. Here’s what we know about the Land Cruiser Mini so far:
- Platform: The Land Cruiser Mini will be built on a new heavy-duty ladder frame platform. Its dimensions are expected to be approximately 4,350 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,880 mm in height, making it longer than the Suzuki Jimny.
- Pricing: The Land Cruiser Mini is anticipated to have a starting price of around $42,000 AUD or $26,000 USD, positioning it slightly above the Jimny in terms of cost.
- Engine Options: Toyota is considering various engine options for the Land Cruiser Mini. Potential choices include the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine from the Corolla Cross, producing 126 kW and 202 Nm of torque. Another possibility is a hybrid variant of the same engine, offering 146 kW. Additionally, Toyota might introduce a diesel engine, possibly the 2.8-liter turbo diesel from the Hilux, boasting 150 kW and 500 Nm of torque. The exact engine lineup will likely depend on regional preferences.
- Electric Version: Toyota also plans to release an electric version of the Land Cruiser Mini, but that is expected to come at a later date.
Conclusion
The Land Cruiser Mini’s impending release is generating excitement among off-road enthusiasts and budget-conscious car buyers. Toyota aims to challenge the Suzuki Jimny’s dominance by offering a compact, capable, and well-rounded off-roader with improved comfort and performance. The arrival of the Land Cruiser Mini in 2024 is eagerly anticipated, and it’s poised to spark lively debates among car enthusiasts about whether it can dethrone the Jimny as the go-to affordable off-roader. Stay updated on the latest developments in the automotive world on our website at castles.com for breaking news and reviews.
