The long-awaited Jimny Nomad is a five-door model from Suzuki . While retaining the impressive off-road capability and unique design of the base Jimny Sierra, it offers significantly improved rear seat comfort and cargo capacity, and many fans are eagerly awaiting its release.
However, because of its rugged and tough character, if you purchase it with the same mindset as a regular passenger car, you may end up regretting your purchase and thinking, “This isn’t what I expected.”
In this article, we will explain in detail, based on the information provided, the “disappointments” and “points to be aware of” that those considering purchasing a Jimny Nomad should be aware of in advance so that they do not regret their decision.
8 disappointing points about the Jimny Nomad you should know before buying
While the Jimny Nomad has many attractive features, it also has some “compromises” that could be considered its unique character. We have compiled seven points that may cause a gap after purchase.
1. Extremely limited storage space
The Jimny Nomad prioritizes off-road capability and heavy-duty use over comfort, so storage space is very limited.
- Lack of drink holders : There are no drink holders in the door pockets, and only two in the entire car, front and rear, meaning there’s no place for everyone to put their drinks.
- No rear armrest : There is no center armrest in the rear, limiting comfort.
- Limited storage space for accessories: The space for smartphones and small items is minimal, so much so that the car has been described as “a car you shouldn’t expect to have storage space in.”
If you want to do everything with one device, you will need to be creative and expand the storage space with aftermarket accessories.
2. Compromising on comfort features around the seats
The Jimny also features specifications unique to long-distance driving and passenger comfort.
- Limited seat adjustment : The driver’s seat does not have a seat lift mechanism (height adjustment) , and can only be adjusted by sliding forward and backward and reclining.
- Steering wheel adjustment : The steering wheel only has tilt up/down function, not telescopic function . Depending on your physique, you may not be able to find the optimal driving position.
- Rear seats recline only one position : While the rear seats are significantly more comfortable than those in the Sierra, they only recline a small amount, making them less comfortable than other SUVs on long trips.
3. There is a step in the luggage space when the rear seats are folded down
The five-door design has made the luggage space much easier to use, but there are some things to be aware of. The rear seats are made of fabric, which prioritizes comfort, so when the seats are folded down, there is a step between the luggage compartment and the seat .
This is a big difference compared to the 3-door Jimny Sierra, which is made of plastic and can be made flat. If you are planning to sleep in the car, you will need to eliminate the step by using a luggage board, which will be available as a dealer option.
4. Slight decrease in off-road performance
The Jimny’s soul is its off-road capability. While the basic performance has been maintained, the wheelbase has been extended by 340mm, which has had some impact.
- Ramp breakover angle : The ramp breakover angle, an indicator of how unlikely it is to scrape the underside of the boat, has worsened by 3 degrees from 28 degrees for the Sierra to 25 degrees.
Of course, these figures are far higher than those of ordinary passenger cars, but for users seeking extreme off-road performance, this may be an important point that cannot be ignored.
| Specifications | Jimny | Jimny Sierra | Jimny Nomad |
|---|---|---|---|
| full length | 3,395mm | 3,550mm | 3,965mm |
| Overall width | 1,475mm | 1,645mm | 1,645mm |
| Overall height | 1,715mm | 1,730mm | 1,720mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,250mm | 2,250mm | 2,590mm |
| ground clearance | 205mm | 210mm | 210mm |
| Minimum turning radius | 4.8m | 4.9m | 5.7m |
| Approach angle | 41 degrees | 36 degrees | 36 degrees |
| Ramp breakover angle |
28 degrees | 28 degrees | 25 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 51 degrees | 50 degrees | 47 degrees |
5. Limitations of the ACC driving assistance system
The Jimny Nomad (AT model) is equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC), which was not available on the Sierra. However, its functionality is limited.
- Activates at speeds of 40km/h or more : It does not have a full-speed tracking function and activates at speeds of 40km/h or more. It is useful for reducing fatigue on highways, but it is not compatible with stop-and-go traffic in traffic jams.
- MT vehicles are not equipped with ACC : MT vehicles are equipped with a regular cruise control that only maintains the set speed . It does not adjust the distance between you and the vehicle ahead, so you need to be careful.
6. Old-fashioned “bulb lamp”
The headlights are LED, but the rear combination lamps and interior room lamps are old-fashioned bulb-type (small bulb) lamps. This is a Jimny-like specification that takes into consideration maintenance and replacement costs, but some people may find it lacking for a modern car. In particular, the back lamp only lights up on the left side.
7. The interior prioritizes toughness over comfort
The interior is basically the same as the Jimny Sierra, with hard plastics being used extensively to ensure scratch resistance. The design is full of functional beauty, such as the grip in front of the passenger seat, but if you are expecting the quality and luxury of a passenger car with its extensive use of soft padding, you will be disappointed.
8. No omnidirectional monitor
Since it is not standard equipment and is not available as an option, some people may feel uneasy about driving it.
9. Delivery Date
It has been extremely popular since its announcement, to the point that orders have been halted and delivery times are expected to be extremely long.
Are the “disappointments” part of the Jimny’s “flavor”? Its unique charm
I have mentioned some harsh points so far, but these “disappointing points” are also the flip side of the Jimny Nomad’s “unique character.”
- Optimized driving performance : The five-door conversion is not simply an extension of the car; it is a special design that does not impair driving performance, including a reinforced frame, stronger brakes (ventilated discs), and an optimized suspension.
- Well-thought-out design : Large switches that are easy to operate even with gloves, a seat shape that holds your body in place while not restricting movement when riding off-road, and an earlobe mirror that makes it easy to check the conditions around the tires – all of these are the result of pursuing functionality as a “real tool.”
- Improved practicality : The biggest attraction is that the rear doors open and close approximately 90°, providing ample rear seat space for adults and luggage space large enough for everyday shopping. This makes it an ideal choice for families who have given up on a 3-door car, or for those looking for a versatile vehicle.
A word from the editorial department
The Jimny Nomad is a groundbreaking model that inherits the tough spirit of the Jimny Sierra while dramatically improving everyday usability. The new color “Sizzling Red” and specially designed parts will satisfy your desire to own it.
However, its true essence is not that of a comfortable SUV, but rather a heavy-duty off-road vehicle .
Whether you perceive the “disappoints” and “points to be aware of” we have introduced as “flaws” or accept them as “uniqueness” or “flavor” will greatly affect your post-purchase satisfaction.
The key to enjoying the best possible driving experience with a Jimny Nomad is to gain a deep understanding of its unique character and determine whether it truly suits your lifestyle.
