The Case for the Jimny 4X2: Expanding the City Appeal-car care service maintenance

The distinction between the Jimny and Thar, emphasizing that they should not be considered
direct competitors due to their differing segments, sizes, and engine power. While both vehicles
offer off-road capabilities, they cater to distinct customer preferences. However, I believe that
the Jimny would greatly benefit from offering a 4x2 drivetrain, unlike the Thar. In this article, we
will explore the reasons behind this opinion and delve into how a 3-door Jimny with a 4x2
driveline could enhance its appeal in urban environments.
The Thar's 4x2: Expanding the Market:
Mahindra's introduction of the Thar 4x2, aimed at customers who desired the lifestyle appeal of
the vehicle without the need for off-road capabilities, proved to be a smart move. This variant
helped lower the entry price and attracted individuals who primarily used their vehicles for city
and weekend drives. However, it also diluted the rugged and hardcore image that the Thar had
built over the years. While offering different variations of the Thar is a good strategy, the
upcoming 5-door model and its variants are more likely to cater to this market segment
effectively.
The Impact of Removing 4x4 Capability:
As evident from our review, removing the 4x4 drivetrain from the Thar does not necessarily
make it more suitable for city or highway driving. In fact, the ride quality becomes bouncier due
to the reduced weight, and the steering, albeit lighter, remains too heavy for maneuvering in
urban settings. Furthermore, the wider track makes it challenging to navigate through traffic
congestion. These observations highlight the importance of considering drivetrain options that
truly enhance a vehicle's suitability for specific environments.
The Need for a 4x2 Jimny:
Given the aforementioned limitations of the Thar without 4x4, it becomes evident that Maruti
should offer a 3-door Jimny with a 4x2 driveline in its portfolio. Introducing this variant would not
only expand the existing 5-door body style but also present an ideal option for urban driving.
The Jimny's compact dimensions, coupled with the light steering, make it highly maneuverable
in city traffic. Additionally, the removal of the 4x4 system would reduce weight and friction,
improving fuel efficiency. Maruti has previously expressed concerns about the 3-door Jimny
being expensive for the Indian market. However, removing the costly 4x4 components would
allow for a more affordable price point.
Preserving the Jimny's Image:
Maruti, primarily known as a "car" manufacturer, may be hesitant to dilute the Jimny's off-road
image, as it is their flagship hardcore SUV. While this concern is valid, it is essential to
recognize that there are customers who understand the distinction between a 4x2 and a 4x4
variant. The introduction of a 3-door 4x2 Jimny would not only cater to those who appreciate this
differentiation but also serve as a valuable product line extension. Such an offering would
increase sales volume, benefiting a single product sitting on its own platform, aligning with
Maruti Suzuki's philosophy.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, launching a 4x2, 3-door Jimny would be a strategic move for Maruti Suzuki. While
it may face some resistance from die-hard 4x4 fans, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
The addition of a 4x2 driveline expands the Jimny's appeal in urban environments, making it a
more suitable choice for city dwellers. Furthermore, it opens up opportunities for increased sales
volume, providing a positive impact on the brand's