Suzuki Jimny 1.3 (3rd Gen)
"Jimny Wide" (JB43)
"The original budget cult icon — coil-sprung, light, and hard to kill."
About the Suzuki Jimny 1.3 (3rd Gen)
Before the boxy 4th-gen took over, the third-generation Jimny (the 1.3-litre "Jimny Wide", JB43) was South Africa's affordable real-4x4. Officially sold by Suzuki Auto SA from around 2008 to 2018, it was the first Jimny offered here as a regular model. It moved to coil springs at all four corners while keeping the ladder frame and a dual-range transfer case, powered by the 1.3L M13A petrol with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto. Today it's the cheapest way into Jimny ownership — slower and more basic than the 1.5, but light, simple and genuinely capable off-road, with the same cult following.
Who It's For
Budget first-time 4x4 buyers, students and second-car owners who want the Jimny cult and real off-road ability without the 4th-gen price tag.
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- The cheapest entry into a genuine low-range 4x4
- Light and simple — easy, inexpensive mechanicals
- Coil-sprung ride is comfier off-road than leaf-sprung rivals
- Strong cult following keeps even old examples desirable
- Very low running costs
Weaknesses
- 1.3 is underpowered, especially on the highway
- Basic equipment and dated safety by modern standards
- Smaller aftermarket than the 4th-gen
- Noisy and bouncy at speed
Buying Tips
- 1 Favour the VVT 1.3 (≈2005 onward) for a little more usable power
- 2 Check for rust, especially in coastal areas, and underbody off-road damage
- 3 Verify the transfer case and front hubs engage cleanly
- 4 Full service history and honest mileage matter on an ageing car
Common Issues to Check
- Timing-chain / VVT wear on neglected, high-mileage examples
- Body and chassis rust on older or coastal cars
- Worn suspension and steering components from age / off-road use
- General age-related electrical niggles
Ready to buy?
Browse Suzuki Jimny 1.3 (3rd Gen) listings for sale in South Africa
