That’s where 4WD vehicles come in. They don’t just get you from A to B — they get you anywhere. But not all 4WDs are created equal. If you’re serious about exploring, you'll want a vehicle that doesn’t just handle 4WD challenges — it owns them. That’s why the Suzuki Jimny stands tall where others struggle.
Let’s dive into why 4WD matters, the good and the bad that comes with it, and why the
Jimny is the off-road hero you’re looking for.
What 4WD Driving Really Means
A 4WD vehicle (or 4X4) sends engine power to all four wheels — not just two. It’s a game-changer. If one or two wheels lose grip, the others keep pushing you forward. In slippery, rugged, or wild conditions, that extra control makes all the difference.
On rocky trails, muddy paths, snowy streets — 4WD keeps you moving where a regular car would give up. That’s why it’s the go-to for anyone serious about adventure.
(Sources: What Is Four-Wheel Drive? | Wonderopolis, How to Use 4 Wheel Drive Like a Pro | Tires Plus)
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE DRIVETRAINS (Drivetrain meaning the drivetrain sends power from the engine to the wheels to make the car move) :
The Different 4WD Modes — and When You’ll Use Them
Not all 4WD situations are the same. That’s why your system gives you different options:
4H (High Range): When you need extra grip but still want to move at decent speeds. Think snowy roads, light mud, or rocky paths. You’ll probably use 4H more often than anything else.
4L (Low Range): When the going gets extreme — deep sand, thick mud, steep climbs. You’ll want max torque and slow, steady power.
2H (Two-Wheel Drive High): For your everyday drive. Dry roads, good weather — here’s where you save fuel and cruise smoothly.
(Sources: How to Use 4 Wheel Drive Like a Pro | Tires Plus, 2h 4h 4l: 4x4 Truck and SUV Modes Explained! - Four Wheel Trends)
Switching the Jimny into 4WD (It’s Simple)
Whether you’re driving the Jimny with a manual or automatic transmission, Suzuki makes switching to 4WD a breeze.
Always start from Park (P) for safety.
In just a few easy moves, you're ready to take on anything the road — or the wild — throws at you.
Why 4WD Is a Game-Changer
There’s a reason real adventurers swear by 4WD:
• Unbeatable traction on snow, ice, rocks, and mud.
• More control when the path gets sketchy.
• Confidence to explore places you’d never reach in a standard car.
• Extra weight gives you better road grip, keeping you grounded when it matters
most.
(Sources: How to Use 4 Wheel Drive Like a Pro | Tires Plus)
The Tough Truth: 4WD Has Its Disadvantages Too
Even legends have flaws — and 4WD vehicles are no exception. Here's what you should
know:
• Higher price to buy, maintain, and fuel up.
• Extra weight and complex parts mean higher repair bills.
• Lower fuel efficiency than regular two-wheel drive cars.
• Longer braking distances because of the added weight.
• Overconfidence trap: 4WD can make you feel invincible — until it doesn’t.
(Sources: How to Use 4 Wheel Drive Like a Pro | Tires Plus)
But Here’s the Thing: The Suzuki Jimny Isn’t Like Other 4WDs
Where most 4WD vehicles stumble, the Jimny flies. Here’s how it crushes those
common disadvantages:
Disadvantage 1: "4WD vehicles are expensive to buy, maintain, and fuel."
Jimny’s Advantage:
The Jimny keeps it affordable. With its simple mechanical design, low repair costs,
and impressive fuel efficiency (around 6.4L/100km), you're saving money from the day
you drive it off the lot. Plus, at only 1,110 kg, it’s lightweight without sacrificing
toughness.
Disadvantage 2: "Extra equipment adds weight and complexity."
Jimny’s Advantage:
No unnecessary tech clutter here. The Jimny’s ladder-frame chassis, part-time 4WD,
and manual transfer case deliver pure, rugged reliability. It’s built tough, but keeps
maintenance simple — exactly what you want off-road.
Disadvantage 3: "Heavier 4WDs consume more fuel and take longer to stop."
Jimny’s Advantage:
With its compact size (3,645 mm long, 1,645 mm wide), the Jimny handles like a
dream. It’s quick to stop, sips fuel sparingly, and doesn’t drag you down like bulkier
4WDs.
Disadvantage 4: "4WD can cause overconfidence and more stuck situations."
Jimny’s Advantage:
It’s small but mighty. A 4.9-meter turning radius, 210 mm ground clearance, and
world-class approach, ramp breakover, and departure angles mean the Jimny doesn’t
just look ready for off-road — it is ready.
Disadvantage 5: "4WD doesn't make you invincible on ice and snow."
Jimny’s Advantage:
You stay in control, even when roads get dangerous. The Jimny’s short 2,250 mm
wheelbase, lightweight design, and part-time 4WD with low range give you the edge
on icy, snowy, and slick surfaces where bigger 4WDs struggle.
Final Word
The Suzuki Jimny isn’t just a 4WD vehicle — it’s a compact, capable adventure machine.
If you're serious about getting off the beaten path — and doing it smartly, affordably, and
safely — it’s time to meet your perfect match.
Visit Suzuki Bassonia JHB near The Glen Shopping Centre today! Let’s get you behind
the wheel of the Jimny and start your next adventure.
Call us on 087 803 2200 Or WhatsApp Us to book your test drive!
