The life of an automotive journalist is often romanticized. Yes, there’s the thrill of driving new cars, the allure of exotic locations, and the privilege of experiencing the latest automotive marvels. But the reality is often a desk-bound existence, juggling deadlines, managing logistics, and the occasional car wash.
Yet, the lure of the open road is relentless. This month, the itch to escape the confines of the office became unbearable. Fortunately, salvation arrived in the form of the office’s long-term Maruti Suzuki Jimny, its keys tauntingly perched on my desk. The adventure was calling.
The Jimny, once a fresh face in our long-term fleet, has settled into a supporting role within our Motoring garage. It’s become a trusty companion for magazine shoots, running mundane day to-day errands, and brightening up our basement parking with its kinetic yellow hue. The Jimny is also celebrating its first anniversary in India, so it’s time for a quick adventure to commemorate this occasion and it’s a good excuse for me to get out of the office.
A miniature replica of the Jimny, perched on my desk, serves as a constant reminder of the off-road escapades it promises. With the monsoon season in full swing, transforming the Western Ghats into a lush green paradise, the time for a trail adventure was ripe. The mental image of conquering challenging trails and cascading waterfalls was enough to ignite my wanderlust. Grabbing the Jimny keys, I descended to the basement, fired up the AC, and set the mood with a classic AC/DC track — ‘Highway to Hell,’ a fitting soundtrack given the state of the highways roads in Maharashtra which have more potholes as far as the eye can see.
view of the urban jungle
The journey began with a familiar challenge: Mumbai traffic. The Jimny, however, offered a unique perspective. Its boxy design and upright seating position provided an excellent view of the urban jungle. The interior, a blend of ruggedness and simplicity, revealed more details under the scrutiny of traffic congestion. The instrument cluster, reminiscent of the iconic Gypsy, with its twin dials encased in square housings and exposed Allen screws, added a touch of retro charm.
After navigating Mumbai’s chaotic roads, we emerged onto the Atal Setu sea link. The rain lashed against the windows, and the wind whipped through the open apertures, promising a refreshing drive ahead. A pit stop for a quintessential highway food — a piping hot vada pav — was a mandatory ritual before hitting the open highway, Also is a road trip even a road trip without having a vada pav. With stomachs full we moved on to the journey ahead, leaving the bustling city behind and venturing into the serene embrace of the Lonavala hills.
The journey to the trail was a brief respite before the real adventure began. A quick walk around the Jimny, capturing its pristine state before the inevitable onslaught of mud and grime, was a necessary ritual. The summer sun bathed the landscape in a golden glow, but the promise of monsoon magic lurked within the dense forest.
The trial was a test of both man and machine. The initial climb was manageable, but the deeper we ventured, the more challenging the terrain became. The monsoon’s relentless assault had transformed the trail into a slippery, muddy obstacle course. With each twist and turn, Jimny’s capabilities were put to the test. Small streams, swollen by the rains, transformed into mini waterfalls, creating picturesque moments that were quickly captured on camera. The kinetic yellow paint job of the Jimny stood out against the lush green backdrop, a vibrant contrast that made for stunning photographs.
As the trail grew steeper and muddier, the decision to engage a four-wheel drive was inevitable. The satisfying clunk of the engagement mechanism signalled the car’s readiness to conquer the elements. The additional traction was immediately noticeable, the front wheels helping in pulling the Jimny up the incline with ease.
The trail intensified as we ascended. The dense canopy provided a canopy of green, but the road became increasingly challenging. Evidence of recent landslides was scattered along the path, a testament to the monsoon’s relentless force. The Jimny’s ground clearance was put to the ultimate test as we navigated through submerged sections. The car responded admirably, ploughing through the water without hesitation. As we conquered each obstacle, the sense of accomplishment grew. Finally, the trail opened up to reveal the summit, shrouded in mist. The cool, crisp air was a welcome respite from the humid climb. It was a moment of triumph, a perfect end to a thrilling off-road adventure.
The descent was equally exhilarating. Jimny’s hill descent control proved invaluable, allowing us to navigate the treacherous terrain with confidence. A series of deep water crossings offered an irresistible temptation. Ignoring the voice of reason, we decided to indulge in a playful splash, capturing the moment on camera.
Back on solid ground, we disengaged four-wheel drive and headed for an open field. The rear wheel drive configuration was perfect for some impromptu skidding. With the vast expanse of grass as our canvas, we executed long, controlled slides, reminiscent of the iconic drifting which would make Han from ‘Tokyo Drift’ give his nod of approval. It was a moment of pure automotive joy, a fitting end to an unforgettable adventure.
After all that fun in the mud and slush, it was time to head back to the city and return to base camp. I couldn’t resist taking a photo to compare the before and after shots; the latter clearly showed how dirty the car had gotten and just how much fun we had with the practical and ever-capable Maruti Suzuki Jimny. The mud-splattered exterior was a testament to the adventurous journey we had undertaken, and it brought a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
As we navigated back to the bustling city, I reflected on how the Jimny had effortlessly handled every challenge thrown its way. This little off-roader had not only proved its mettle but also provided an exhilarating experience that revitalized us. While most folks might seek rejuvenation in a yoga retreat or a spa, for us, it’s a rugged trail that does the trick. The thrill of tackling tough terrains, the camaraderie of the journey, and the sheer joy of being in nature’s lap reset our minds and spirits, getting us back in the zone. The Maruti Suzuki Jimny had once again proven that adventure is the best therapy.
