Owners of the funky (but very dinky) Suzuki Jimny will be pleased to know that there is a range of Thule products to expand the luggage capacity of South Africa’s cutest 4x4. Launched locally in November, the Jimny has captured the imagination of adventurers and the result is that demand exceeds supply. Its combination of real off-road capability (a low-range transfer case, ladder frame chassis and live rear axle are three key features that separate it from soft-roaders) attractive pricing, and visual appeal have got prospective owners queuing.

Waiting list aside, if it has a shortcoming then it is a luggage volume which gives new meaning to travelling light: there’s almost enough space for a family which intends spending the weekend in the same clothes and sharing a toothbrush.

Fortunately, there aren’t many luggage-related questions that Thule can’t answer and in the case of the Jimny there are various roof rack solutions. We chose to fit our photo car with the tried and tested Thule square bar – an appropriate choice considering the retro-styling of the little Suzuki. With these tough cross bars in place the sky is the limit for those who want to – as per Thule’s pay-off line – bring their life.

The Canyon roof basket shown here is the rugged option, and the hard-wearing Thule Chasm bags are perfectly at home out in the open. Alternatively, an enclosed[JO1], lockable luggage box can be used, bringing with it security, refinement and aerodynamic benefits.

On display is the all-new Thule Force XT box[JO2], this medium-sized model combining a 400-litre luggage volume and a 75-kilogram load capacity. It opens from either side for ease of use.

Says Richard Downey of local Thule agent, SA Sport and Cargo: “We pride ourselves on being able to meet the needs of vehicle owners, irrespective of their lifestyle activity or vehicle type. Being able to react quickly to new vehicle introductions is a strategic goal of ours. A new-car buyer can invariably drive straight from the showroom to a Thule Concept Store and have their new purchase upgraded with the world’s leading transportation solutions.”