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Suzuki Jimny
Company typeProduct line
IndustryAutomotive
Founded1970
FounderSuzuki
Headquarters
Japan
ProductsFour-wheel drive compact off-road mini SUVs

The Jimny is a lineup of four-wheel drive compact off-road mini SUVs manufactured by the Japanese automaker Suzuki since 1970.

Originally designed as a kei class vehicle, Suzuki still produces a kei-compliant Jimny for both the Japanese domestic market and various international regions, alongside larger variants. By September 2018, cumulative sales of the Jimny had reached 2.85 million units across 194 countries.

History

The development of Suzuki's four-wheel-drive technology began in the late 1960s, drawing inspiration from the Steyr-Puch Haflinger. In 1968, Suzuki acquired Hope Motor Company, which had gone bankrupt after manufacturing the compact off-road HopeStar ON360, with only roughly 45 units produced.

Suzuki’s initial four-wheel-drive model, the LJ10 (Light Jeep 10), was introduced in 1970 featuring a kei-class 359-cc air-cooled two-stroke inline twin engine. This was succeeded by the LJ20 in 1972, which incorporated liquid cooling and enhanced power output to comply with emissions regulations. The LJ50 arrived in 1975 with a larger 539-cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine and reinforced differentials; it was initially aimed at the Australian market before expanding to other export destinations.

The Jimny 8 / LJ80 marked the end of the original LJ series by upgrading to an 800 cc four-stroke inline-four engine. It was followed by the second-generation Jimny 1000 / SJ410 (1.0 litre) and Jimny 1300 / SJ413 (1.3 litre). The SJ413 was marketed under different names internationally: as the Samurai in the United States and as the Sierra in Australia.

In 1998, the third generation was launched featuring the G13BB Suzuki G engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI). This generation received an update in 2001 with the M13AA EFI engine and later gained variable valve timing in 2005 along with interior enhancements.

The fourth generation debuted in late 2018, equipped with a larger 1.5-litre engine for export markets, delivering power output exceeding for the first time. This iteration also reintroduced a longer wheelbase variant with five doors, reviving a concept first seen during the second generation.

Overall construction

Each of the four Jimny generations employs a body-on-frame design using a ladder frame chassis. The body itself is non-structural and primarily serves to shield occupants and enhance comfort. Safety features were improved progressively in newer models. The vehicle meets road-legal standards in most countries worldwide.

Suspension

All Jimnys utilize dependent suspension systems with solid axles front and rear—a setup known for robustness and off-road capability but uncommon among contemporary vehicles. The first two generations featured leaf springs on all wheels, while coil springs replaced them starting from the third generation. A late second-generation SJ800 Coily model also adopted coil springs.

Steering

Jimnys are equipped exclusively with recirculating ball steering systems, which prioritize durability for off-road use but provide less precise handling on paved roads compared to modern rack-and-pinion steering setups.

Transmission

Every Jimny model incorporates a manually operated part-time four-wheel-drive system that defaults to rear-wheel drive. Drivers can engage or disengage front-wheel drive under appropriate conditions. Due to the lack of a center differential, four-wheel drive should only be activated on slippery surfaces such as snow, mud, or loose gravel—not on dry or firm pavement.

All versions include a dual-range transfer case offering "high range" for everyday driving and "low range" for difficult terrain or towing tasks; low range effectively halves gear ratios and doubles torque output. This low-range mode is only accessible in four-wheel-drive mode and is not intended for towing on paved roads.

The transfer case is typically shifted via a mechanical lever located between the main gearbox and handbrake lever, except for later third-generation models that feature a servo-assisted system controlled by buttons inside the cabin.

HopeStar ON360

Created by Japan's Hope Motor Company in 1967, the HopeStar ON360 was released in April 1968. It was equipped with a Mitsubishi air-cooled, two-stroke ME24 engine delivering at 5,500 rpm and torque at 3,500 rpm. The vehicle incorporated Daihatsu braking components, a rear axle sourced from the Mitsubishi Colt 1000, and wheels borrowed from the Mitsubishi Jeep. This simple two-seat model lacked doors but featured a sturdy 4WD system designed for off-road conditions. Its maximum speed reached , or 30 km/h (18.6 mph) when in four-wheel drive mode. Despite acquiring 100 ME24 engines, sales remained modest, with only 15 units sold domestically and 30 exported to Southeast Asia. After Mitsubishi declined to proceed with production, Hope transferred the design rights to Suzuki in 1968.

First generation (1970)

Suzuki's compact Jimny became the company's initial global hit, helping to establish its brand identity and international footprint by entering an unoccupied segment of small, capable off-road vehicles.

LJ10

Following the acquisition of ON360 rights, Suzuki redesigned the body and swapped out the Mitsubishi engine for an air-cooled Suzuki "FB" two-cylinder, two-stroke powerplant producing . By keeping the engine displacement below 360 cc and positioning the spare tire inside the cabin—allowing seating for three—the overall length remained under 3 meters, qualifying it as a kei car eligible for tax advantages. Launched in April 1970, it was the first kei car with four-wheel drive to enter series production. The LJ10 Jimny rode on 16-inch wheels, had a curb weight of , and could reach a top speed of . Shortly after introduction, the engine output was increased to , although top speed stayed consistent.

The original Jimny surpassed expectations with nearly 5,000 units sold domestically in its debut year and outsold the then-leading Mitsubishi Jeep by selling over 6,000 units in 1971. Initial manufacturing was subcontracted and largely conducted by hand until Suzuki established a dedicated production line to boost capacity.[1]

LJ20

In May 1972, Suzuki introduced the LJ20, which featured vertical grille bars and a new water-cooled L50 engine generating , raising the top speed to .[2] A variant relocated the spare tire behind the passenger seat and included two small rear-facing seats. Left-hand drive models reflected Suzuki’s ambition to expand internationally. The LJ20 also launched the Hard Top (Van) version equipped with smaller 15-inch wheels.[3] Suzuki did not directly export to the United States; instead, International Equipment Co. managed imports there. Exported Jimnys featured externally mounted spare tires to conform with differing length regulations.

Toward the end of LJ20’s production run, an updated engine meeting stricter emission requirements was introduced with a output of . This upgrade increased the top speed to , while payload capacity reached ( for the Van).[4]

SJ10

The LJ50 engine made its initial appearance in September 1975, aimed at export markets with . In Japan, it was introduced in June 1976 under the name Jimny 55, designed to meet updated kei-car regulations and emission requirements. This three-cylinder two-stroke powerplant generated , emphasizing enhanced torque at lower RPMs. With a weight of , it could achieve speeds up to 60 mph (97 km/h). The spare tire was relocated to the rear door exterior, allowing space for an additional fourth seat. Early export versions carried the "LJ50" designation, which was later revised to LJ55 coinciding with the launch of the LJ80 to maintain naming consistency.

In the Australian market, M.W.-Suzuki (Melbourne) offered the LJ50S and LJ50V vans as either soft-top or hardtop models featuring metal doors and externally mounted spare tires, powered by engines delivering and torque respectively. A limited-edition LJ51P long-wheelbase pickup was released in May 1976 for select export destinations. The 1977 facelift of the Japanese Jimny 550 introduced rear wheel-arch extensions and a larger bonnet equipped with radiator vents. Export LJ50 models were succeeded by the LJ80, which incorporated a new four-stroke, four-cylinder 797-cc engine while adopting similar exterior enhancements.

SJ20

The last model of the original Jimny series, known as the 1977 Jimny 8 (exported as LJ80), primarily targeted foreign markets with only 1,799 units sold domestically. It was intended to be marketed as Eljot in Germany; however, trademark issues prevented this naming. While the SJ10 remained available in Japan, the SJ20 featured a four-stroke SOHC four-cylinder F8A engine producing , marking Suzuki's debut of a four-stroke engine in their automobiles. The increased power allowed for higher differential gearing, enhancing both highway cruising and off-road performance; additionally, track width was expanded by . The LJ80V variant was also assembled locally in Indonesia by P.T. Indo Mobil Utama.

Inside, upgrades included redesigned seats and a new steering wheel; from 1979 onwards, metal doors were introduced alongside the LJ81 pickup "Stockman" model in Australia. This pickup had a wheelbase longer than the LJ80 by , measuring overall compared to the LJ80's length. Production of the Jimny 8/LJ80 concluded in late 1981 with the arrival of the second generation. Transmission gear ratios remained consistent between SJ10 and SJ20 variants, although transfer case and axle gear ratios differed depending on production year.

Second generation (1981)

The Suzuki SJ30 debuted in May 1981 as the Suzuki Jimny within Japan, adhering to kei car standards and offering both 550 cc and 660 cc three-cylinder engine options. For international markets, the SJ-Series was extended in length and width and equipped with larger engines, marketed under various names such as Suzuki SJ410/413, Samurai, Sierra, Potohar (Pakistan), Santana (Spain), Caribian (Thailand), Katana (Indonesia), Chevrolet Samurai, Holden Drover (Australia), and Maruti Gypsy (India).

SJ30

The SJ30 Jimny 550 was designed specifically for Japan’s domestic market within kei car restrictions. It utilized the LJ50 two-stroke engine inherited from its predecessor and represented Japan’s final production vehicle powered by a two-stroke engine. Production ended in November 1987 following expiration of type approval, succeeded by the JA71 model powered by an F5A engine. The two-stroke powerplant was preferred due to its lightweight construction and excellent low-speed torque characteristics, making it popular among Japanese off-road enthusiasts and Suzuki alike.

SJ40

Launched in 1982 as the successor to the LJ80, the SJ40 Jimny 1000—known globally as the Suzuki SJ410—was equipped with the F10A 1.0-litre inline-four engine delivering 45 PS and achieving a maximum speed of 68 mph. Japanese-spec models reported an output of 52 PS at 5,000 rpm. To prevent fitting larger wheels from the Jimny 1000 onto the 550 cc variants, Japan's regulatory authority enforced distinct bolt patterns.

The vehicle came standard with a four-speed manual gearbox and drum brakes without power assistance on both front and rear axles. Available body configurations included half-door convertible versions, extended-wheelbase pickups, two-door hardtops (referred to as "Van" in Japan), raised-roof hardtops, and panel vans. The pickup model was designed as a utilitarian workhorse, featuring diagonal tires mounted on steel rims without fender flares, and offered a payload capacity of 350 kg. By late 1983, an export-oriented covered long-wheelbase variant was introduced.

Starting in March 1985, Santana Motor in Spain began domestic production of the SJ410 using more than 60% locally sourced components, enabling it to circumvent import limitations on Japanese automobiles. Santana’s production focused solely on short wheelbase versions including two-door convertibles, commercial models, three-door SUVs, and vans. Depending on the manufacturing site, some later units incorporated front disc brakes. In March 1990, Santana upgraded the chassis to align with the SJ413 Samurai platform and marketed this iteration as the Samurai 1.0 or "Samurai Mil" within Spain. Additionally, Cooper Motor Corporation in Nairobi assembled the SJ410 during the mid-1980s.

Indonesian production

Between late 1982 and 2006, Suzuki Indomobil Motor assembled the SJ410 in Indonesia under multiple model names. Initially introduced as the Suzuki Super Jimny, it replaced the LJ Suzuki Jimny in that market. A limited-run canvas soft-top variant called the Jimny Sierra was produced between 1983 and 1985. To address increased taxation on four-wheel-drive vehicles, Suzuki launched a two-wheel-drive version named Suzuki Katana in September 1989. Early models up to 1984 featured low-roof metal bodies; a higher-roof variant appeared in 1984 continuing until approximately 1988, while the Katana was equipped with an even taller roofline. Small volumes of 1.3-litre Jimny Samurai versions were also available.

From September 1989 onward, the Katana adopted updated square-shaped headlights. This rear-wheel-drive Katana served as the foundation for Indonesia’s Marvia Classic kit-car project. Initially offered exclusively in the "Blitz" trim until a minor facelift introduced round headlights in late 1992 alongside a new grille bearing an "S" emblem in mid-1993. That same year, the Blitz trim was succeeded by the enduring Suzuki Katana GX model which remained in production until 2006, receiving periodic decal updates in 1995, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2005. A budget-friendly DX trim was marketed from 1993 through 2000; after which GX became the sole available version. Both GX and DX trims were equipped with power steering as standard equipment. In March 1995, both trims received a redesigned steering wheel featuring Suzuki’s "S" logo. In 2005, Suzuki introduced the SJ413 Caribian Spacecab pickup imported from Thailand and sold locally until 2007. Production of second-generation Jimny and Katana models in Indonesia concluded in July 2006.

Maruti Gypsy

The SJ-410 variant produced in India has exclusively been available as a long-wheelbase model. Manufactured by Maruti Suzuki for the Indian market until 2019, the Maruti Gypsy King is equipped with a 1.3-litre G13 engine featuring sixteen valves. It continues to be favored by Indian military and law enforcement agencies.

Farm Worker 4x4

In 2013, Suzuki New Zealand brought back the Suzuki SJ lineup under the name Farm Worker 4x4, showcasing the Maruti emblem on its grille. This version corresponds to the leaf-sprung Suzuki Maruti Gypsy King MG413W, powered by a 1.3-litre, 16-valve G13BB engine delivering at 6,000 rpm and torque at 4,500 rpm. It includes a five-speed manual transmission with all synchromesh gears and a transfer case offering high/low ranges and selectable 2WD/4WD modes. Available in four configurations—two with rear windows and fiberglass bulkheads, and two featuring canvas roofs with fold-down front windscreens—all are built on the long wheelbase platform supporting a maximum load capacity of 500 kg. The Farm Worker is intended solely for agricultural purposes and cannot be registered for road use due to non-compliance with current crash standards, though front seat belts are provided for safety.

JA51 1300

Introduced in 1984, the SJ413 (model code JA51) brought enhancements over the earlier SJ series by incorporating a larger 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, a five-speed manual gearbox, and power-assisted braking systems with front disc and rear drum brakes. It featured updated body styling and interior components such as a roll bar, redesigned dashboard, new seating, and grille design. Meanwhile, the SJ410 continued production in other regions retaining its original specifications. Following the launch of the Escudo in 1988, sales of the Jimny 1300 halted in Japan but recommenced in May 1993 after receiving updates.

While maintaining the same track width as the SJ410, the SJ413 was susceptible to rollover incidents. To address this issue, Suzuki introduced a wider version around 1988—expanded by approximately 10 cm—and rebranded it as the Samurai. Aside from increased width and subtle interior and exterior cosmetic changes, this represented the primary distinction from the SJ413.

The Samurai was also offered in a long wheelbase (LWB) variant for specific markets featuring three doors but only two or no rear seats. This LWB model provided additional cargo capacity behind the rear seats without extending rear passenger legroom compared to the short wheelbase version.

North American market

The SJ-Series Samurai debuted in the United States in 1985 as a 1986 model year vehicle, following earlier availability in Canada and Puerto Rico where it was sold as the Suzuki SJ410. Initially priced at $6,200, it achieved sales of 47,000 units during its first year. Powered by a 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, it was offered as both a convertible and hardtop, retaining rear seating until 1994. The Samurai earned considerable acclaim among dedicated four-wheel-drive enthusiasts for its off-road performance and dependability, outselling the Jeep Wrangler by a ratio of two to one in 1987. Its lightweight and compact structure combined with a transfer case featuring selectable four-wheel drive and low-range gearing made it agile and less likely to become stuck on soft surfaces. In Puerto Rico, it was also marketed under the Chevrolet Samurai name.

The mid-1988 update introduced softer suspension settings, an enlarged anti-roll bar to mitigate body lean, and adjusted fifth gear ratio (.865:1 compared to .795:1) to enhance highway driving comfort. Improvements were made to dashboard layout and seating for better driver ergonomics.

In September 1991, Suzuki upgraded the Samurai’s powertrain with a new 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine equipped with throttle-body fuel injection, producing . The Samurai was joined by the Suzuki Sidekick in Canada and U.S. markets starting in 1989 before being discontinued by 1995. Due to safety regulations requiring rear shoulder belts and partial roll cage installation complications, rear seats were removed from models produced after 1994. Declining demand combined with increasingly stringent safety standards led to its eventual withdrawal from these regions following the 1995 model year.

Consumers Union litigation

A pivotal 1988 Consumer Reports evaluation deemed the Samurai unsafe and susceptible to rollovers. In 1996, Suzuki of North America initiated a libel lawsuit against Consumers Union, which concluded with an ambiguous settlement. CU emphasized it never suggested the Samurai was prone to rolling over during normal driving conditions. Both parties released a joint statement recognizing their differences regarding the test’s validity—Suzuki contested CU’s conclusions, while CU defended its testing methods and outcomes.

Ranger kitcar

Rickman Cars created the Rickman Ranger, a GFRP-bodied, rear-wheel-drive replica of the Samurai built on the Mark II Ford Escort chassis. Manufactured in the UK as a kitcar and subsequently produced in Russia by Avtokam, Rickman and Lomax combined output exceeded 1,000 units. Avtokam and later Velta assembled approximately 150 more kits before Velta declared bankruptcy in 2006. Additionally, Rickman offered a camper version known as the Rancher.

Other markets

The SJ413/Samurai enjoyed a prolonged international presence. In Australia, JA51 models were marketed as Suzuki Sierra or Holden Drover, while vehicles built in Thailand were sold under the Suzuki name, including the distinctive " Sporty" long-wheelbase extended cab pickup.

Due to restrictions on Japanese imports, Spanish firm Santana Motors began local production of the SJ413 in 1986. Santana versions featured softer suspension springs, enhanced interiors, and carpeted flooring to attract buyers beyond off-road enthusiasts. In 1989, these models received updates and were renamed "Samurai." Unlike their Japanese counterparts, Santana Samurais retained leaf springs but gained a facelift with a redesigned grille and rounded bumpers tailored for European markets. Around 1998, Santana launched a diesel option powered by PSA’s 1.9-litre XUD9 turbodiesel engine delivering , with a maximum speed of 130 km/h. By 2001, this was replaced by a Renault F8Q 1.9-litre non-turbo diesel producing . Petrol variants continued production until Spanish Samurai manufacturing ended in early 2004.

In South America, the Samurai was sold as Chevrolet Samurai in Colombia and Venezuela, assembled by General Motors Colmotores in Bogotá. Other Mercosur nations (Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay) marketed it under the Suzuki brand without offering long-wheelbase versions.

In Asia, the SJ/Samurai appeared under multiple names; notably in Thailand as the Suzuki , which included the "Caribian Sporty" extended-cab pickup featuring a small rear seat intended for occasional use.

High altitude world record

On 21 April 2007, Chilean drivers Gonzalo Bravo and Eduardo Canales achieved a new record for highest altitude attained by a four-wheeled vehicle by ascending Ojos del Salado to , driving a modified Suzuki Samurai (SJ413), surpassing the previous mark held by a Jeep.

The vehicle was equipped with enhanced wheels, tires, suspension components, and a supercharged G16A 4-cylinder engine. This marked their third attempt following setbacks due to weather conditions and an engine fire during earlier efforts. The former record holders’ team led by Matthias Jeschke in a Jeep Wrangler had left a sign reading "Jeep Parking Only: All others don't make it up here anyway," which the Chilean team took as a memento.

This accomplishment was officially recognized by Guinness World Record in July 2007.

On 13 December 2019, Jeschke reclaimed this record driving a Mercedes Benz Unimog.

History of Kei Models

In January 1986, Suzuki launched the JA71, equipped with a four-stroke, turbocharged, fuel-injected three-cylinder F5A engine, designed to complement the two-stroke SJ30. This model featured an interior upgrade compared to the Jimny 1300. Initially, the power output was rated at (JIS gross), which later increased to (JIS net) following a November 1987 update that introduced an intercooler. The base Van variant retained the non-intercooled engine with lower power figures. Additionally, a high-roof "Panoramic Roof" version with glass panels was introduced.

The 660 cc Period

To meet revised Kei car standards in March 1990, Suzuki replaced the JA71 with the JA11, powered by an intercooler-equipped F6A engine delivering . The lineup included a practical van (HA) and more refined Hardtop, Convertible, and Panoramic Roof trims (HC, CC, EC). Suspension enhancements and an extended front bumper allowed fog lamps to be installed ahead of the grille. By June 1991, output rose to , with power steering and automatic transmission options added in 1992. The vehicle’s top speed reached approximately . In February 1995, power climbed again to , before production ceased nine months later as coil spring-equipped JA12/22 models were introduced.

Coil Spring Versions

Known as the 'Coily' in select markets, the Samurai underwent a notable revision in November 1995 that incorporated coil spring suspension while maintaining live axles. This update also brought redesigned seats, dashboard, steering wheel, doors, and front grille.

Three coil-sprung Samurai variants were produced:

  • JA12 featuring the F6A three-cylinder engine carried over from the JA11.
  • JA22 fitted with the more potent K6A engine.
  • JB32 powered by an G13BB 16-valve engine producing . Slightly larger due to increased bumper and fender dimensions, this model is also known as the SJ80 and was common in export markets, often equipped with the eight-valve G13BA engine rated at .

To conform with Kei car regulations, both JA12 and JA22 engines were officially rated at , despite the K6A's higher actual performance. No long-wheelbase coil-sprung Samurai versions are documented; however, some featured elevated roofs or soft tops.

These coil-sprung Samurais possess distinct suspension parts, transfer cases, body panels, and trim elements compared to leaf-sprung counterparts and subsequent Jimny models. The JB32 was exclusively sold in Europe between 1997 and 1998, making it rare there with limited availability of replacement components.

Not all manufacturing facilities switched to coil springs; Maruti Suzuki in India continued producing the original narrow SJ410 (Maruti Gypsy) as of 2020, while Santana in Spain manufactured leaf-sprung Samurais until 2004. Although most markets saw third-generation Jimnys replace earlier models after 1998, production persisted in India.

Third Generation (1998)

At the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki revealed a completely redesigned Jimny featuring contemporary styling but retaining a ladder frame chassis and dual-range transfer case—contrasting many compact crossovers lacking low-range gearing. Export markets received two configurations: a standard hardtop and a Canvas Top variant introduced in 1999 and produced exclusively by Santana Motors in Spain until 2009. This new Jimny succeeded the Sierra/Samurai in most regions and debuted in Europe at the Paris Motor Show in 1998.

In Japan, the larger 1.3-liter Jimny Wide was launched in January 1998, followed by a kei-class version powered by a 660 cc K6A engine in October to comply with updated kei car rules. Initially using the G13BB engine for the 1.3-liter model domestically, Suzuki switched to the more advanced VVT-equipped M13A engine from January 2000 onward; Spanish softtops continued with G13BB until 2005. For European diesel markets, Santana introduced the turbocharged JB53 variant featuring a Renault-sourced 1.5-liter K9K diesel engine in 2004; its output increased from 65 PS to 86 PS by 2005 before discontinuation in 2011. This diesel was never offered in the UK or Ireland.

The Jimny employs part-time four-wheel drive managed via dashboard buttons offering selections for two-wheel drive, high-range four-wheel drive, and low-range four-wheel drive modes. Lacking a center differential means rear-wheel drive is suitable only on dry surfaces. Vacuum-actuated locking hubs allow shifting between modes at speeds up to 100 km/h without stopping; however, engaging low range requires halting but no need to exit the vehicle. Newer generations incorporate electronic push-button controls that mandate clutch engagement and neutral gear for low range activation.

From January 2002 onward in Japan, the "Jimny Sierra" name replaced "Jimny Wide" for models equipped with the 1.3-liter engine. The vehicle offers exceptional visibility through large windows but has a significant blind spot caused by its sizable B-pillar. Air conditioning is standard equipment in select markets.

European Hard Top and Canvas Top variants come in JX and JLX trims—the latter providing enhanced features such as roof rails, power steering, electric windows and mirrors, along with upgraded interiors. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic; two-wheel drive versions are manual only.

Santana ceased Canvas Top production in Spain by 2009 before declaring bankruptcy in 2011. To compensate for lost capacity, Brazil’s Souza Ramos Group commenced Jimny production from 2012; it remains uncertain if they manufactured Canvas Top models.

In Australia since 2007, this generation has been marketed as "Jimny Sierra," leveraging established brand recognition for off-road capability. GM Colmotores assembled a Chevrolet-badged JB33 variant with a 79 PS engine in Bogotá starting from 1999. The Jimny is also available as parallel imports in Singapore.

The third-generation model received a front-end facelift for the 2013 model year featuring an angular grille and hood scoop design. In Indonesia, this updated version debuted at the August 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show with limited sales of just 88 units.

Global production largely ended by 2018 after twenty years as Suzuki prepared for its fourth generation launch. Nevertheless, British firm Yomper 4×4 began manufacturing pickup derivatives based on this generation starting from 2021.

Production halted in Brazil during 2022 due to new regulations mandating engine revisions incompatible with the existing M13A powertrain. At that time Suzuki Brazil offered both fourth-generation "Jimny Sierra" models alongside facelifted third-generation versions across four trims ranging from base "Jimny 4Work" to premium "Jimny Forest," all powered by the M13A engine.

Mazda AZ-Offroad

Introduced in October 1998, the Mazda AZ-Offroad is essentially a Suzuki Jimny with Mazda branding. The "AZ" designation is derived from Autozam, Mazda's sub-brand focused on compact vehicles. This model is equipped with a turbocharged 658-cc DOHC Suzuki K6A engine delivering . Standard features include manually engaged four-wheel drive, autolocking front hubs, and a low-range transfer case, while an automatic transmission is available as an option.

Fourth generation (2018)

The fourth-generation Jimny and Jimny Sierra were unveiled in Japan on 5 July 2018, showcasing retro design cues reminiscent of the classic LJ and SJ series. Production commenced earlier on 29 May 2018 at Suzuki’s Kosai manufacturing facility.

In January 2023, Suzuki expanded the lineup by launching a long-wheelbase 5-door Jimny variant based on the Sierra platform. This model is powered by the larger 1.5-litre K15B engine, broadening its appeal with increased practicality.

Design

Built on a body-on-frame chassis, this generation features a ladder frame construction paired with a 3-link rigid axle suspension supported by coil springs. The drivetrain includes part-time four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case branded as ALLGRIP PRO. Transmission choices consist of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

The exterior design highlights include upright A-pillars, a flat clamshell-style bonnet, front window lines that slope downward to improve visibility, a minimalist black grille flanked by round headlights, roof edge drip rails, and pronounced wheel arch extensions. Rear cargo capacity can be expanded by folding the split rear seats, offering 377 litres of flat-floor storage complete with utility screw holes and anchor points. Off-road capability is underscored by a 37° approach angle, 28° breakover angle, and 49° departure angle.

Safety technology under the Suzuki Safety Support umbrella features the Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS) system, which monitors for potential frontal collisions and can alert the driver or apply automatic braking to reduce impact severity. Additional safety aids include lane departure warning, weaving alert functionality, and an automatic high beam control system that switches between high and low beams as needed.

Engines

The standard Japanese-market Jimny is powered by an R06A 658 cc three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. Meanwhile, the broader Jimny Sierra utilizes a newly engineered K15B 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine producing at 6,000 rpm and at 4,400 rpm.

Indonesia

The Jimny was introduced in Indonesia on 18 July 2019 during the 27th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. It is available in one trim level with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

In February 2024, the Jimny 5-door model made its Indonesian debut at the 31st Indonesia International Motor Show, maintaining the single-trim configuration and transmission options identical to the 3-door version. The Rhino Edition variant for the 5-door was launched on 25 November 2024.

India

Production of the Jimny commenced in India in January 2021 primarily for export purposes. The locally assembled 3-door Jimny has been shipped to markets across Africa and the Middle East.

The domestic introduction of the 5-door Jimny occurred in January 2023, with an official launch on 7 June 2023 offering two trim levels: Zeta and Alpha. This model is sold exclusively through Nexa, Maruti Suzuki’s premium dealership network. By October 2023, exports of the 5-door Jimny expanded to regions including the Middle East, Latin America, South Africa, Southeast Asia, and Japan.

Japan

In the Japanese market, the kei car variant is marketed as the Jimny, while the regular wheelbase model is known as the Jimny Sierra. The Jimny is available in XG, XL, and XC trim levels, whereas the Sierra is offered in JL and JC trims. Both models come with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission option.

The 5-door Jimny made its first appearance in Japan under the name Jimny Nomade on 30 January 2025, offered solely in the FC trim.

Malaysia

The Jimny was introduced to Malaysia on 30 September 2021, initially available in a single variant equipped with a 4-speed automatic gearbox. Later, on 18 November 2024, the Arctic edition for the 3-door model was launched.

Malaysia saw the release of the 5-door Jimny as a single variant on 30 July 2024.

Philippines

The Jimny entered the Philippine market on 8 March 2019 with two trim choices: GL (manual transmission) and GLX (automatic transmission). The 3-door Rhino Edition was unveiled on 25 November 2024. Subsequently, the 5-door Jimny arrived on 25 January 2024, also offered in GL (manual) and GLX (automatic) trims. The 5-door Rhino Edition followed on 6 January 2025.

Singapore

In Singapore, the Jimny was launched on 27 April 2019 as a single variant featuring a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Thailand

Debuting at the 40th Bangkok International Motor Show on 27 March 2019, the Jimny was available in one trim with a choice between a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Off-road Edition was introduced later on 1 December 2024.

Europe

The Jimny first appeared in Germany in October 2018. However, it was pulled from European markets in 2020 due to stringent emission regulations and high CO2 output. It returned in 2021 as a commercial vehicle by removing rear seats to comply with less restrictive rules. Ultimately, the Jimny was discontinued again across Europe in 2025 because of stricter emissions standards and no immediate plans for an electric variant.

GCC

The Jimny 3-door model launched in GCC countries in February 2021, offered in GL (manual) and GLX (automatic) trims. The introduction of the 5-door version followed on 1 November 2023.

Mexico

Available from 12 November 2020 in a single GLX trim, the Jimny provides both a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The initial batch of 1,000 units sold out within three days.

Australia

Australia received the Jimny on 24 January 2019 with the GLX trim offering manual or automatic transmissions. In June 2021, an entry-level Lite trim featuring steel wheels and basic audio equipment was added. The Jimny’s 5-door model, branded as Jimny XL, was launched on 5 December 2023 with both transmission options available.

New Zealand

The Jimny arrived in New Zealand on 14 March 2019 as the Jimny Sierra, presented in one variant with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The launch of the Jimny’s five-door version occurred on 23 January 2024, offered exclusively with those same transmission choices.

South Africa

Introduced to South Africa on 2 November 2018, the Jimny was initially available in GA and GLX trims with either a manual five-speed or four-speed automatic gearbox. A mid-level GL trim joined the lineup in March 2022.

The five-door Jimny made its South African debut on 14 November 2023, offered in GL and GLX variants.

Electric variant

A battery-electric Jimny was announced with a target release around 2030. Nevertheless, Suzuki's CEO later expressed concerns that an electric drivetrain might undermine the fundamental four-wheel-drive characteristics.

Evolution overview

The following tables outline the Jimny's progression within the Japanese market, emphasizing principal export editions.

Code Description Manufacturing Period
Code Description Manufacturing Period

Sales

2021
Year Japan Europe Indonesia
1998 4,171
1999 19,431
2000 21,351
2001 16,780 19,865
2002 14,885 21,541
2003 13,803 21,182
2004 13,732 26,674
2005 14,715 27,007
2006 16,472 28,388
2007 15,465 27,783
2008 14,948 21,880
2009 11,222 20,681
2010 11,444 17,473
2011 12,958 12,923
2012 14,733 12,467
2013 15,590 10,713
2014 14,593 10,787
2015 12,973 12,271
2016 13,267 13,184
2017 12,487 14,710
2018 20,942 10,438
2019 30,281 16,605 546
2020 38,056 10,063 977
39,422 563 795
2022 41,405 459 1,168 2023 39,910 — 812 2024 41,405 — 2,445
Year Japan Europe Indonesia

Further reading

External links

  1. ↑ Transmission gear ratios were 3.68:1 1st, 2.21:1 2nd, 1.47:1 3rd, 1.00:1 4th, and 3.68:1 reverse.
  2. ↑ Production shifted in-house, allowing monthly volumes of approximately 2,000 units.
  3. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named CG1
  4. ↑ Transmission gear ratios were revised to 3.96:1 1st, 2.38:1 2nd, 1.52:1 3rd, 1.00:1 4th, and 3.96:1 reverse.

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