Today we’re reviewing our amazing little Suzuki Jimny which is Fully Loaded with Over £6,000 of Upgrades including a 4-seat conversion, ICE Upgrades and a black wrapped roof.
A Brief History of the Suzuki Jimny
The Suzuki Jimny is an icon in the world of compact 4x4s. First launched in 1970, the Jimny was designed to be a small but mighty off-road vehicle capable of tackling rugged terrain. Over the decades, it has earned a cult following for its go-anywhere spirit, charming boxy design, and unyielding reliability. The fourth-generation model, introduced in 2018, takes this legacy to new heights with a retro-inspired aesthetic and modern touches, while still being one of the most affordable and capable off-roaders on the market.
The Jimny LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle) variant, introduced as a response to high demand, offers practicality for small businesses or enthusiasts needing a rugged workhorse. Its stripped-back nature makes it a perfect canvas for customisation – something we’ve taken full advantage of with over £6,000 of bespoke upgrades.
The Internals: A World of Customisation
The most significant transformation in our Jimny comes in the form of an upgraded interior. Originally a two-seater, we’ve converted it to a four-seater with seatbelts and ISOFIX mounts, making it family-friendly without sacrificing much practicality. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and the addition of rear seats has been executed seamlessly, looking and feeling OEM-quality.
The Kenwood head unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a game-changer, bringing modern connectivity to the Jimny. Pairing your phone is quick and intuitive, and features like Google Maps, Spotify, and hands-free calls make long journeys much easier. The reversing camera and sensors are particularly useful given the Jimny’s upright design and relatively small rear window – no more guesswork when backing into tight spaces.
We’ve also had Woodstock install a comprehensive sound-deadening pack. This not only reduces the Jimny’s infamous road noise but also improves insulation, making the cabin warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Combined with privacy glass, the interior now feels more refined and peaceful – a big win for daily usability.
Practicality gets a boost thanks to JimnyStyle accessories from Streetlife, including extra cup holders, a phone holder, a centre console tray, and custom cubbyhole inserts for storing essentials. The cabin now has a place for everything, eliminating the clutter that can build up during daily drives. A discreet Garmin Dashcam adds an extra layer of security without being intrusive.
The Externals: Classic Jimny Charm
Externally, the Jimny remains true to its roots – rugged, square, and unapologetically retro. The small proportions and high ground clearance scream adventure, while the timeless design makes it stand out in a sea of bloated SUVs.
Our additions haven’t altered its iconic look but have subtly enhanced functionality. The 4-seat conversion does add some weight, but the Jimny’s 1.5L engine handles it with ease. The car’s tough plastic bumpers, signature grille, and bold wheel arches mean it’s ready for everything from green lanes to city streets.
The Drive: Mighty Yet Manageable
Driving the Jimny is an experience in itself. Its compact size makes it ideal for narrow lanes and city parking, but don’t mistake its small footprint for lack of capability. The ALLGRIP Pro 4WD system with a low-range transfer gear ensures that the Jimny can conquer mud, snow, and rocky terrain without breaking a sweat.
The 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers just enough power to keep up with modern traffic, though it’s not built for speed. With a manual gearbox, the drive is engaging and hands-on – perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy the simplicity of a traditional off-roader. On the road, the Jimny’s ride is firm but not uncomfortable, and the upgraded sound-deadening makes longer journeys more pleasant.
Around town, the tight turning circle is a blessing, and thanks to the reversing aids, parking is effortless despite the Jimny’s utilitarian design. Fuel economy is respectable, though it does dip slightly if you’re constantly engaging 4WD.
Living with the Jimny: A Daily Delight
With our upgrades, the Jimny feels less like a commercial vehicle and more like a lifestyle choice. The added seats and creature comforts transform it into a genuinely practical daily driver while retaining the charm that Jimny fans love. Whether you’re heading to work, exploring the countryside, or doing the school run, it’s a car that puts a smile on your face every time you step inside.
The small size means it’s easy to live with in urban settings, yet it’s rugged enough to handle weekend adventures. The Kenwood head unit and sound-deadening enhancements make it modern and comfortable, while the thoughtfully added accessories mean everything has its place.
Final Thoughts
The Suzuki Jimny 1.5 LCV is already a brilliant little 4×4, but with over £6,000 in upgrades, we’ve turned it into a bespoke all-rounder that caters to both practical needs and adventurous desires. It retains all the charm and off-road prowess that the Jimny is famous for, while addressing its few shortcomings – road noise, interior practicality, and modern connectivity.
If you’re looking for a compact, characterful vehicle that can tackle anything life throws at it, this Jimny – fully loaded – is in a class of its own. It’s not just a car; it’s a companion for the journey.
