The wait is over, and the Jimny is finally here in its practical 5-door avatar. Since its launch, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny has stirred up the lifestyle SUV segment, offering a blend of adorable retro looks and serious off-road capability.

However, unlike many other cars in the Maruti stable that come in four or five trim levels, the Jimny keeps it simple with just two: the Zeta and the Alpha. Both are available with Manual (MT) and Automatic (AT) transmissions.

So, which one should you put your money on? Let’s break it down.

Under the Hood: The Common Ground

Before looking at the differences, it is important to know what stays the same. Regardless of the variant you choose, you get:

• Engine: 1.5L K15B Naturally Aspirated Petrol Engine.
• Power: 103 bhp and 134 Nm torque.
• Drivetrain: Suzuki’s legendary AllGrip Pro 4WD system with a low-range transfer case.

Crucially, Maruti has not compromised on safety or off-road tech in the base variant. Both trims get 6 airbags, ESP, Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Control, and Brake Limited Slip Differential.

The Contender: Jimny Zeta (The Entry-Level)

The Zeta is the entry point into the Jimny family. In many cars, the "base model" feels stripped down, but that isn't the case here.

What you get:

• Steel wheels (15-inch).
• Halogen headlamps.
• 7-inch SmartPlay Pro touchscreen (wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay).
• Manual AC.
• Basic fabric seats.
• Electrically adjustable mirrors.

The Verdict on Zeta:
The Zeta is the perfect choice for the hardcore off-road enthusiast. Why? Because most off-roaders immediately swap out the stock wheels and tyres for heavy-duty aftermarket options. If you plan to install lift kits, steel bumpers, and bigger mud-terrain tyres, why pay extra for the Alpha’s alloys and plastic trims?

Buy the Zeta if:

• You are on a stricter budget.
• You plan to heavily modify the car (aftermarket rims, tyres, audio).
• You prioritize mechanical capability over creature comforts.

The Contender: Jimny Alpha (The Top-Spec)

The Alpha variant commands a premium over the Zeta, but it brings the "lifestyle" element to the forefront. It adds the creature comforts that make the Jimny livable as a daily driver.

What you get over the Zeta:

• Alloy Wheels: Gunmetal grey 15-inch alloys.
• Lighting: LED Headlamps with washers (crucial for muddy off-roading) and Fog lamps.
• Tech: Larger 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen and Arkamys sound system.
• Comfort: Automatic Climate Control, Cruise Control, and Push Start/Stop button.
• Aesthetics: Leather-wrapped steering wheel, body-colored door handles, and dark green glass (UV cut).

The Verdict on Alpha:
The Alpha is for the buyer who wants a dual-purpose vehicle. If you plan to drive the Jimny to the office during the week and hit the trails on the weekend, the Automatic Climate Control, LED lights, and Cruise Control make a massive difference in daily usability.

Buy the Alpha if:

• You want a "complete" car straight out of the showroom.
• You do a lot of highway driving (Cruise Control is a blessing).
• You appreciate better aesthetics and premium audio.
• You don't want the hassle of aftermarket modifications.

Final Recommendation

The Value Pick: Zeta Manual
If you are buying the Jimny purely as a second car for weekend fun or farm visits, the Zeta offers unbeatable value. You get the exact same 4x4 hardware as the top model for significantly less money.

The Daily Driver Pick: Alpha Automatic
If the Jimny is going to be your primary vehicle or city runabout, stretch your budget for the Alpha Automatic. The convenience of the auto-box combined with the premium features of the Alpha trim makes it a head-turner that is easy to live with.