Suzuki Club UK

The AW4 auto box that is used in the autos is ECU controlled and a really nice box, both the j20a and h25a use the same auto. My father drove mine back from Devon and said it was one of the smoothest autos he's driven.

I didn't get a huge amount of seat time in it as it was ripped to pieces for the engine but it was quite nice

Ok,
As I have a 2002 year, 2.0 Turbo Diesel, 5 door.
I have to say its great, a full tank can get me 500 miles. and I have done this several times. driven from one side of Ireland to Dublin then to London via Holyhead.
Diesels do like long runs, that goes for any make of motor with a diesel lump on it.
I put D,P.F. cleaner additive into the fuel tank regularly, this is a must for short distance driving.
Its great for towing. comfy.I could go on, and on.
The reason I got my G.V. was that the Jimny is a bit cramped inside for passengers , and stuff, but I couldn't really fault the Jimny at all.
I do miss my Jimny, but like you Dan , at times I have to take passengers who are old around in comfort. If Suzuki did a 5 door Jimny , now that be something.
If you need any other info, just let us know.
Good luck what ever you decide matey.

Dom

Oh , one thing , the very early diesels had a mazda engine in them.
mines got a peugeot engine.
I have heard allsorts about the mazda engines.
But I would say, as long as any engine is regularly checked over , oil, water levels etc and serviced /maintained , that's important.

Dom