Holden Drover
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1909 |
| Headquarters | Hamamatsu , Japan |
| Products | Automobiles, motorcycles, outboard motors |
| Website | www |
The Jimny is a lineup of four-wheel drive off-road compact SUVs manufactured by the Japanese company Suzuki since 1970.
Originally designed as a kei-class automobile under Japan's light vehicle taxation system, Suzuki still produces a kei-compliant Jimny for the domestic market and select international regions, alongside larger variants that exceed kei-class dimensions. By September 2018, Suzuki had distributed approximately 2.85 million Jimnys in 194 countries worldwide.
History
Suzuki's journey into four-wheel drive technology started in the late 1960s after studying a Steyr-Puch Haflinger. In 1968, Suzuki acquired Hope Motor Company, which had developed the compact off-road HopeStar ON360 but had only manufactured about 45 units before going bankrupt.
The company's inaugural four-wheel drive model, the LJ10 (Light Jeep 10), was launched in 1970 and featured a kei-class 359-cc air-cooled two-stroke inline twin engine. This was succeeded by the LJ20 in 1972, which introduced liquid cooling and enhanced power output to meet emission standards. In 1975, Suzuki unveiled the LJ50 equipped with a larger 539-cc three-cylinder two-stroke engine and reinforced differentials, initially aimed at the Australian market before expanding exports globally.
Later models included the Jimny 8 / LJ80 powered by an 800 cc four-stroke inline-four engine, followed by the second-generation Jimny 1000 / SJ410 (1.0 litre) and Jimny 1300 / SJ413 (1.3 litre). The SJ413 evolved into the Samurai, marking Suzuki’s first model officially sold in the United States. This series was marketed as Sierra in Australia while retaining the Jimny name in other regions.
The third-generation Jimny arrived in 1998 featuring the G13BB engine with electronic fuel injection (EFI), which was upgraded to the M13AA EFI engine in 2001 and further refined with variable valve timing in 2005 along with interior enhancements.
In late 2018, Suzuki introduced the fourth-generation Jimny, which quickly gained significant global interest. Export versions are equipped with a larger 1.5-litre engine producing over for the first time. Additionally, this generation reintroduced a five-door variant with an extended wheelbase, reminiscent of the second generation’s longer model.
Overall construction
Throughout all four generations, the Jimny has utilized a separate body mounted on a ladder frame chassis, where the body itself is not a structural element legally. Initially intended primarily as a cabin to provide occupant safety and comfort, subsequent models reinforced the body structure to improve crash protection. The Jimny is street-legal in most countries around the globe.
Suspension
Each iteration employs dependent suspension with solid axles on both front and rear—a configuration once typical among off-road vehicles but now uncommon. This design delivers robustness and excellent off-road capability. The first two generations used leaf springs on all wheels; however, from the third generation onward coil springs were adopted for suspension, with the late second-generation SJ800 Coily also featuring coil springs.
Steering
All Jimny variants incorporate recirculating ball steering systems, chosen for their reliability in off-road conditions despite offering less precision on paved roads compared to modern rack-and-pinion steering mechanisms.
Transmission
The Jimny is equipped with part-time four-wheel drive (4WD), defaulting to rear-wheel drive, with front-wheel drive engaged manually under certain conditions. Since it lacks a center differential, the 4WD setting is intended solely for use on low-traction surfaces such as snow, mud, or sand to prevent damage to the drivetrain.
Every variant offers manually selectable dual-range gearing: high range is suited for everyday driving, while low range caters to challenging off-road environments or towing needs by halving the gear ratio and thus doubling torque at the wheels. Low range operation is restricted to 4WD mode, which limits its applicability for towing on paved roads.
A dedicated transfer case manages the 2WD-H, 4WD-H, and 4WD-L settings via a lever positioned between the main transmission and handbrake. In later third-generation models, this manual lever was substituted with an electronically controlled system activated by buttons inside the cabin.
HopeStar ON360
The HopeStar ON360, developed by Japan’s Hope Motor Company in 1967 and released in April 1968, was powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 359 cc air-cooled two-stroke ME24 engine delivering 21 PS at 5,500 rpm and 32 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm. It incorporated Daihatsu braking components, a rear axle from the Mitsubishi Colt 1000, and wheels derived from the Mitsubishi Jeep. This basic two-seat vehicle featured no doors but included a robust four-wheel-drive setup intended for off-road use. Its maximum speed reached 70 km/h in two-wheel drive and dropped to 30 km/h when in four-wheel drive mode. Despite acquiring 100 ME24 engines, sales remained limited 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)
The Suzuki Jimny emerged as Suzuki’s initial worldwide triumph, carving out a niche for a compact yet capable off-road vehicle that elevated the brand’s global profile.
LJ10
Following acquisition of the ON360 design rights, Suzuki revamped the bodywork and replaced the Mitsubishi engine with an air-cooled Suzuki FB two-cylinder two-stroke engine producing . By keeping displacement below 360 cc and positioning the spare tire inside the cabin—enabling three seats—the vehicle complied with kei car regulations, securing tax advantages and other benefits. Launched in April 1970, it became the first kei car with four-wheel drive produced in series. The LJ10 Jimny rode on 16-inch wheels, weighed , and attained a top speed of . The engine was soon upgraded to , although maximum speed remained unchanged.
The original Jimny quickly gained market traction, selling nearly 5,000 units within its debut year and surpassing sales of the Mitsubishi Jeep. In 1971, sales climbed beyond 6,000 units. Initially assembled by subcontractors through hand-built methods, Suzuki soon recognized that scaling production required establishing a dedicated manufacturing line.
LJ20
In May 1972, Suzuki introduced the LJ20 featuring vertical grille slats and a new water-cooled L50 engine from the Suzuki FB series generating , which raised top speed to . Production was internalized, reaching monthly outputs of approximately 2,000 units.
A unique variant repositioned the spare tire behind the front passenger seat to create space for two small rear-facing seats. The adoption of left-hand drive versions signaled Suzuki’s intention to expand into international markets. The Hard Top (Van) model debuted during this period with smaller 15-inch wheels. Rather than exporting directly to the United States, Jimnys were imported by International Equipment Co. Export versions included spare tires mounted externally due to more lenient kei car length restrictions abroad.
Toward the end of LJ20 production, an updated engine compliant with stricter emissions regulations was introduced. This cleaner powerplant increased top speed to , while payload capacity stood at (for the Van variant).
SJ10
The LJ50 engine made its export debut in September 1975, delivering . It was introduced to the Japanese market in June 1976 as the Jimny 55, designed to comply with updated kei car regulations and emissions requirements. This three-cylinder, two-stroke powerplant generated , providing enhanced low-end torque. With a weight of , the vehicle could achieve speeds up to 60 mph (97 km/h). To accommodate a fourth passenger seat, the spare tire was relocated to the exterior of the rear door. Early export versions carried the "LJ50" designation, which was later updated to LJ55 alongside the LJ80 model to unify the naming convention.
In Australia, the LJ50S and LJ50V vans were available through M.W.-Suzuki (Melbourne) as either soft-top or hardtop variants, equipped with engines producing and torque respectively. May 1976 saw the introduction of the low-volume LJ51P long-wheelbase pickup, targeted at select export markets. The domestic Jimny 550 underwent a facelift in 1977, featuring widened rear wheel-arch flares and an enlarged bonnet equipped with cooling vents, while export LJ50 models were succeeded by the LJ80, which incorporated a new four-stroke, four-cylinder 797-cc engine.
SJ20
The SJ20 represented the final version of the original Jimny series, launched in 1977 as the Jimny 8 and known as LJ80 in some export regions. Developed mainly for overseas markets, only 1,799 units were sold domestically. Initially intended to be marketed as the Eljot in Germany, trademark conflicts prevented this branding. While the SJ10 remained available domestically, the SJ20 featured Suzuki’s first four-stroke automobile engine: a SOHC four-cylinder F8A producing . The increased output permitted higher differential and gear ratios, enhancing both highway cruising and off-road performance; additionally, track width was expanded by . Assembly of the LJ80V also took place in Indonesia under P.T. Indo Mobil Utama.
Interior enhancements included redesigned seats and a new steering wheel; metal doors were introduced in 1979 alongside the LJ81 pickup model (marketed as "Stockman" in Australia), which featured a longer wheelbase extended by , resulting in an overall length of compared to the LJ80. Production of the Jimny 8/LJ80 ceased in late 1981 with the arrival of the second-generation Jimny. Transmission gear ratios remained consistent between SJ10 and SJ20 models, whereas transfer case and axle ratios varied depending on production year.
Second generation (1981)
The Suzuki SJ30 was launched in May 1981 as the Suzuki Jimny in Japan, adhering to kei car standards and powered by either a 550 cc or 660 cc three-cylinder engine. For international markets, the SJ series was expanded with larger engines and sold under numerous names such as Suzuki SJ410/413, Suzuki Samurai, Suzuki Sierra, along with regional titles including Suzuki Potohar in Pakistan, Santana in Spain, Caribian in Thailand, Katana in Indonesia, Chevrolet Samurai in North America, Holden Drover in Australia, and Maruti Gypsy in India.
SJ30
Targeting Japan’s kei car segment, the SJ30 Jimny 550 retained the LJ50 two-stroke engine from its predecessor. This made it Japan’s last two-stroke automotive engine before production ceased in November 1987. It was subsequently replaced by the JA71 model powered by a F5A engine. The two-stroke unit was prized for its lightweight design and excellent low-speed torque characteristics, qualities that resonated well with Japanese off-road enthusiasts and Suzuki alike.
SJ40
Launched in 1982 as the successor to the LJ80, the SJ40 Jimny 1000—marketed internationally as the Suzuki SJ410—was equipped with the F10A 1.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering . The vehicle's maximum velocity reached . Japanese domestic versions reported power output at 5,000 rpm. To inhibit fitting larger Jimny 1000 wheels onto the smaller 550 cc variants, Japanese regulations enforced distinct bolt patterns on the wheels.
The model came standard with a four-speed manual transmission and front and rear drum brakes without power assistance. Its body configurations included half-door convertible, extended-wheelbase pickup truck, two-door hardtop (referred to as "Van" in Japan), raised-roof hardtop, and no-glass panel van versions. The pickup was designed as a utilitarian vehicle featuring diagonal tires on black steel rims and lacked fender flares, supporting a payload capacity of . A covered long-wheelbase variant was introduced for export markets in late 1983.
Manufacturing broadened globally: from March 1985, Santana Motor in Spain produced the SJ410 with local content exceeding 60%, enabling sales in Europe free from Japanese import restrictions. Santana’s offerings included short wheelbase models as two-door convertibles, commercial trucks, or three-door SUVs/vans. Certain later versions incorporated front disc brakes depending on production location. In March 1990, Santana upgraded the chassis to align with the SJ413 Samurai platform, marketing it as the Samurai 1.0 (known locally as "Samurai Mil"). Additionally, Cooper Motor Corporation (CMC) in Nairobi assembled SJ410 units during the mid-1980s.
Indonesian production
From late 1982 until 2006, Suzuki Indomobil Motor assembled the SJ410 in Indonesia under various model names. Initially launched as the Suzuki Super Jimny, it replaced the LJ Suzuki Jimny. Between 1983 and 1985, a limited run of canvas soft-top models called the Jimny Sierra was produced. To address increased taxation on four-wheel-drive vehicles, Suzuki introduced a rear-wheel-drive 4x2 version named the Suzuki Katana in September 1989. Early iterations (pre-1984) had low-roof metal bodies, followed by taller-roof versions until approximately 1988; the Katana featured an even higher roofline. A small number of 1.3-litre Jimny Samurai units were also available.
Starting September 1989, the Katana adopted updated square headlights and served as the foundation for the Indonesian-built Marvia Classic kit car. Initially offered only in the "Blitz" trim, a mild facelift introduced round headlights in late 1992 and a new grille bearing an "S" emblem by mid-1993. That year marked the replacement of the Blitz by the enduring Suzuki Katana GX model, which remained in production until 2006 with minor decal updates in 1995, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, and 2005. A more basic DX trim was sold between 1993 and 2000; after which only the GX variant continued. Both trims came standard with power steering and received redesigned steering wheels featuring Suzuki’s "S" logo from March 1995 onward. In 2005, Suzuki introduced the SJ413 Caribian Spacecab pickup imported from Thailand and sold through 2007. Production of both second-generation Jimny and Katana models ceased in Indonesia by July 2006.
Maruti Gypsy
The Indian-manufactured SJ-410 has solely been offered in a long-wheelbase configuration. Produced domestically by Maruti Suzuki until 2019, the Maruti Gypsy King is equipped with a 1.3-litre G13 sixteen-valve engine. It continues to be favored by various Indian military and law enforcement agencies.
Farm Worker 4x4
In 2013, Suzuki New Zealand brought back the Suzuki SJ lineup under the name Suzuki Farm Worker 4x4, although it retained the Maruti emblem on its grille. This variant corresponds to the leaf-sprung Suzuki Maruti Gypsy King MG413W, powered by a 1.3-litre G13BB 16-valve engine generating 80 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. It incorporates a five-speed fully synchromesh transmission alongside a high/low transfer case offering both 2WD and 4WD modes. The Farm Worker is available in four configurations—two featuring rear windows with fiberglass bulkheads, and two equipped with canvas tops and fold-down front windscreens—all derived from the long-wheelbase chassis capable of carrying up to 500 kg. Engineered specifically for agricultural applications, this model is not eligible for road registration due to failure to meet current crash safety standards, though it does include front seat belts.
JA51 1300
Introduced in 1984, the SJ413 (model code JA51) represented an advancement over the SJ series by incorporating a larger 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, a five-speed manual gearbox, and power-assisted brakes with front discs and rear drums. The update also brought in a roll bar, redesigned dashboard, new seating, and an updated grille. Meanwhile, the SJ410 continued production in other regions with its original specifications. After launching the Escudo (Vitara) in 1988, sales of the Jimny 1300 ceased in Japan but resumed in May 1993 following further enhancements.
While retaining the SJ410’s track width, the SJ413 exhibited rollover tendencies. To address this, Suzuki introduced a wider version around 1988 that expanded the track by 10 cm and was marketed as the "Samurai." Aside from the increased width and slight interior and exterior cosmetic revisions, this was its main distinction.
The Samurai was also made available in a long-wheelbase variant for certain markets featuring three doors but only two rear seats (or none). The rear legroom remained consistent; however, the extended wheelbase significantly enlarged cargo capacity behind the rear seats.
North American market
The SJ-Series Samurai entered the U.S. market in 1985 as a 1986 model year vehicle after earlier availability in Canada and Puerto Rico (where it was known as the Suzuki SJ410). Priced at $6,200 initially, it achieved sales of approximately 47,000 units during its first year. Powered by a 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, it came in both convertible and hardtop versions and included rear seating until 1994. The Samurai quickly became popular among dedicated off-road enthusiasts due to its dependable performance and off-road prowess, outselling the Jeep Wrangler by a two-to-one margin in 1987. Its compact size and lightweight construction combined with a transfer case, selectable four-wheel drive, and low-range gearing contributed to excellent maneuverability and reduced risk of bogging down on soft surfaces. In Puerto Rico, it was also marketed under the Chevrolet Samurai name.
The mid-1988 update enhanced on-road handling by softening suspension settings, installing a larger anti-roll bar to minimize body lean, lowering fifth gear from .795:1 to .865:1 for improved highway torque, and upgrading interior elements such as dashboard layout and seating comfort.
In September 1991, Suzuki introduced an updated 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine featuring throttle-body fuel injection delivering improved performance figures. The Samurai was eventually succeeded by the Suzuki Sidekick starting in 1989 within Canada and U.S. markets; production ceased altogether by 1995. From model year 1994 onward, rear seats were eliminated due to mandatory rear shoulder belts and partial roll cage installation constraints compared to competitors like the Jeep Wrangler. Declining demand coupled with increasingly stringent safety requirements resulted in the Samurai’s discontinuation across these regions after 1995.
Consumers Union legal dispute
A 1988 evaluation in Consumer Reports characterized the Samurai as hazardous and susceptible to rollovers. In response, Suzuki of North America initiated a libel lawsuit against Consumers Union (CU) in 1996 over these assertions. The case concluded with an ambiguous settlement; CU emphasized it "never suggested that the Samurai would easily roll over during normal driving." Both Suzuki and CU released a joint statement acknowledging their differing views on the test's validity—Suzuki challenged CU’s conclusions, while CU maintained confidence in its testing methods.
Ranger kitcar
The Rickman Ranger was created by Rickman Cars as a rear-wheel-drive replica of the Samurai, featuring a GFRP body mounted on a Mark II Ford Escort chassis. This model was available in the UK as a kitcar and later produced in Russia by Avtokam. Collectively, Rickman and later Lomax assembled over 1,000 units. Avtokam, followed by Velta, manufactured approximately 150 additional kits before Velta declared bankruptcy in 2006. Additionally, Rickman offered a camper version called the Rancher.
Other markets
The SJ413/Samurai experienced widespread international distribution. In Australia, the JA51 variant was sold under the Suzuki Sierra or Holden Drover names; in Thailand, it was marketed as Suzuki , including a distinctive extended-cab pickup known as the "Caribian Sporty."
To circumvent Japanese import limitations, Spanish firm Santana Motors commenced local production of the SJ413 in 1986. Santana’s vehicles incorporated softer suspension springs and enhanced interior features, adopting the "Samurai" badge in 1989. While Santana did not implement the 1996 coil-sprung chassis revision, it introduced a facelift for European consumers featuring updated grille and bumpers. Around 1998, Santana launched a diesel edition powered by PSA’s 1.9-litre XUD9 turbodiesel engine delivering 63 PS, capable of reaching 130 km/h. By 2001, this engine was replaced with a Renault F8Q 1.9-litre naturally aspirated diesel producing 64 PS. Production of both gasoline and diesel variants continued until approximately 2003–2004 when Spanish Samurai manufacturing ceased.
In South America, General Motors Colmotores marketed the vehicle as Chevrolet Samurai in Colombia and Venezuela from Bogotá, whereas other countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Paraguay, and Uruguay retained the Suzuki branding. Mercosur nations did not receive long-wheelbase versions.
Throughout Asia, the SJ/Samurai appeared under various designations; notably in Thailand as Suzuki , which included the "Caribian Sporty" pickup with an extended cab offering occasional rear seating.
High altitude world record
On April 21, 2007, Chilean adventurers Gonzalo Bravo and Eduardo Canales ascended Ojos del Salado in a modified Suzuki Samurai (SJ413), reaching an altitude of , thereby establishing a new world record for highest elevation achieved by a four-wheeled vehicle and surpassing the previous Jeep record.
Their Samurai was equipped with enhanced wheels, tires, suspension components, and powered by a supercharged G16A inline-four engine. After two unsuccessful attempts hindered by adverse weather and an engine fire, they succeeded on their third effort. As a memento, they retrieved a sign left by prior Jeep Wrangler record holders stating "Jeep Parking Only: All others don't make it up here anyway."
This accomplishment received official recognition from Guinness World Record in July 2007.
The record was later surpassed on December 13, 2019, when Matthias Jeschke set a new benchmark driving a Mercedes Benz Unimog.
History of Kei Models
In January 1986, Suzuki launched the JA71 model, equipped with a four-stroke, turbocharged, fuel-injected three-cylinder F5A engine, complementing the existing two-stroke SJ30. This iteration featured an enhanced interior compared to the Jimny 1300. Initially, it delivered power rated at (JIS gross), which increased to (JIS net) after the addition of an intercooler in November 1987. The base Van variant retained the non-intercooled engine producing net power. Additionally, a high-roof "Panoramic Roof" version was introduced.
The 660 cc Period
To comply with updated Kei car regulations, the JA71 was succeeded by the JA11 in March 1990. This model incorporated a F6A engine with an intercooler, generating . The lineup included a basic van (HA) and more premium versions such as the Hardtop, Convertible, and Panoramic Roof (HC, CC, EC). Suspension improvements were made and foglights were repositioned to the bumper.
By June 1991, output rose to , with power steering and automatic transmission options arriving in 1992. The vehicle could reach a top speed of . Power further increased to in February 1995 before production ceased nine months later following the introduction of coil spring JA12/22 models.
Coil Spring Variants
Outside the United States—where the updated model is nicknamed the 'Coily'—the Samurai continued production with significant revisions in November 1995. This update brought coil spring suspension while maintaining live axles. The design was refreshed with new seats, dashboard, steering wheel, doors, and front grille.
The coil-sprung Samurai was available in three variants:
- JA12: retained the F6A three-cylinder engine from the JA11.
- JA22: powered by the newer and more potent K6A engine.
- JB32: featured a G13BB 16-valve engine producing , with slightly larger dimensions due to extended bumpers and fenders. Known also as the SJ80, this model was prevalent in export markets, often fitted with an eight-valve G13BA engine.
Important commercial details:
- To adhere to Kei car regulations, both JA12 and JA22 engines were officially rated at , although the K6A engine delivered substantially higher performance.
- No known coil-sprung Samurai long wheelbase models exist; however, some were offered with raised roofs ("high roof") or soft/open tops ("cabrio").
- Coil-sprung Samurais possess distinctive components compared to leaf-sprung versions and later Jimnys, including suspension parts, transfer cases, body panels, and trim elements.
- The JB32 was sold exclusively in Europe between 1997 and 1998, making it a rare find there with limited local parts availability.
Not all manufacturing facilities transitioned to coil springs: Maruti Suzuki in India continued producing the original narrow SJ410 as of 2020 under the Maruti Gypsy name, while Santana in Spain manufactured leaf-sprung Samurais until 2004. Although most markets saw replacement by the third-generation Jimny after 1998, production persisted in India.
Third Generation (1998)
At the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki revealed the redesigned third-generation Jimny featuring a ladder frame chassis and dual-range transfer case that preserved off-road capabilities unlike many crossover alternatives. For export markets, two variants were offered: a standard hardtop and a Canvas Top introduced in 1999, exclusively manufactured by Santana Motors in Spain until 2009. This generation replaced the Sierra/Samurai models across most regions.
In Japan, January 1998 saw the debut of the larger 1.3-litre Jimny Wide, followed by a kei-class version powered by the 660 cc K6A engine arriving in October to meet kei car standards. Initially, the 1.3-litre model used the G13BB engine before switching to a VVT-equipped M13A unit domestically in 2000; Spanish-produced softtops retained G13BB engines until 2005. In Europe—where diesel engines were favored—Santana introduced the turbo-diesel JB53 powered by a Renault-sourced 1,461 cc K9K engine in 2004; this was upgraded from 65 PS to 86 PS in 2005 before discontinuation in 2011.
The Jimny employs a part-time four-wheel-drive system controlled via dashboard switches: defaulting to rear-wheel drive (2WD), with selectable high-range and low-range four-wheel drive modes. Vacuum-locking hubs allow shifting between drive modes at speeds up to 100 km/h without stopping; engaging low range requires halting but no exit from the vehicle. Later iterations adopted electronic push-button four-wheel drive systems necessitating clutch engagement and neutral gear for low-range selection.
Starting January 2002 in Japan, "Jimny Sierra" branding was revived for 1.3-litre models. European Hard Top and Canvas Top trims included JX and fully equipped JLX versions; JLX featured roof rails, power steering/windows/mirrors, and upgraded interiors. Transmission choices comprised five-speed manual or four-speed automatic options; two-wheel drive was available only with manual transmission.
Santana Motors ended Canvas Top production in Spain in 2009 and declared bankruptcy two years later. To compensate for production gaps, Brazil's Souza Ramos Group commenced Jimny manufacturing in 2012. In Australia, "Jimny Sierra" nomenclature was adopted from 2007 due to brand familiarity. Since 1999, GM Colmotores assembled Chevrolet-badged Jimnys in Colombia.
A front-end facelift for this generation arrived for the 2013 model year featuring a more angular grille and hood scoop design. This refreshed model debuted in Indonesia at the 2017 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show with limited sales totaling just 88 units.
Global manufacturing of this generation concluded by 2018 except for Brazil where production continued until new regulations mandated discontinuation of M13A-equipped versions in 2022. At that time Suzuki Brazil offered both fourth-generation "Jimny Sierra" models alongside facelifted third-generation variants across four trims ranging from entry-level Jimny 4Work to premium Jimny Forest.
More recently, British firm Yomper 4×4 launched pickup derivatives based on this generation's chassis starting from 2021.
Mazda AZ-Offroad
Introduced in October 1998, the Mazda AZ-Offroad is essentially a Suzuki Jimny with Mazda branding. The term AZ stands for Autozam, Mazda's sub-brand dedicated to compact vehicles. This model is equipped with a turbocharged 658-cc DOHC Suzuki K6A engine delivering . It comes standard with a manual four-wheel-drive system featuring autolocking front hubs and a low-range gearbox, 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-inspired aesthetics that pay homage to earlier LJ and SJ series models. Production commenced on 29 May 2018 at Suzuki’s Kosai facility in Shizuoka.
In January 2023, Suzuki expanded the lineup by introducing a long-wheelbase 5-door Jimny variant based on the Sierra platform. This version is powered by a larger 1.5-litre K15B four-cylinder engine aimed at broadening its market reach.
Design
Built on a body-on-frame architecture, the vehicle incorporates a ladder chassis, 3-link rigid axle suspension with coil springs, and part-time four-wheel drive featuring a low-range transfer case marketed as ALLGRIP PRO. Transmission choices include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
Exterior design elements consist of upright A-pillars, a flat clamshell-style hood, window lines that slope downward toward the front enhancing visibility, a minimalist black grille flanked by round headlights, roof drip rails, and pronounced wheel arch extensions. The rear cargo area can be expanded by folding the split rear seats flat, creating a 377-litre load space equipped with utility screw holes and anchor points. The vehicle achieves approach, ramp breakover, and departure angles of 37°, 28°, and 49°, respectively.
Safety technologies under the Suzuki Safety Support umbrella include Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS), which identifies potential collision hazards and issues alerts or applies braking to prevent or mitigate impacts. Additional safety systems comprise lane departure warnings, weaving alerts, and automatic high beam control.
Engines
The standard Jimny sold in the Japanese market is powered by an R06A 658 cc three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. The larger Jimny Sierra variant utilizes the newly developed K15B 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that produces at 6,000 rpm and at 4,400 rpm.
Indonesia
In Indonesia, the Jimny was launched on 18 July 2019 during the 27th Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show after being previewed at the previous year’s event. It is available in a single trim level offering either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The longer-wheelbase 5-door Jimny made its Indonesian debut in February 2024 at the 31st Indonesia International Motor Show. This variant is also offered in one trim with both manual and automatic gearbox options. Additionally, the Rhino Edition for the 5-door model was introduced on 25 November 2024.
India
Jimny assembly commenced in India in January 2021 for export purposes, with the three-door model shipped to markets in Africa and the Middle East.
The five-door Jimny was launched domestically in January 2023 and officially released on 7 June 2023 featuring two trim levels—Zeta and Alpha—available exclusively through the Nexa network, Maruti Suzuki’s premium dealership chain. By October 2023, exports of the five-door Jimny had 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, whereas the regular wheelbase version is known as the Jimny Sierra. The Jimny is available in XG, XL, and XC trim levels, while the Sierra is offered in JL and JC trims. Both models provide choices between a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The 5-door Jimny was introduced on 30 January 2025 under the name Jimny Nomade, offered exclusively in the FC trim with both manual and automatic gearbox options.
Malaysia
Malaysia saw the launch of the Jimny on 30 September 2021, initially offered in a single variant equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Later, on 18 November 2024, the Arctic edition for the 3-door Jimny was launched.
The 5-door Jimny made its Malaysian debut on 30 July 2024, available as a single variant.
Philippines
The Jimny entered the Philippine market on 8 March 2019 with two trim options: GL (manual) and GLX (automatic). The 3-door Rhino Edition was introduced on 25 November 2024. The 5-door model arrived on 25 January 2024, also offered in GL (manual) and GLX (automatic) trims, followed by the release of the 5-door Rhino Edition on 6 January 2025.
Singapore
The Jimny was launched in Singapore on 27 April 2019 as a single variant featuring a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Thailand
At the 40th Bangkok International Motor Show on 27 March 2019, the Jimny was unveiled with one trim level, providing both a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic transmission option. The Off-road Edition became available starting from 1 December 2024.
Europe
The Jimny first appeared in Europe beginning with Germany in October 2018. It was withdrawn in 2020 due to elevated carbon dioxide emissions conflicting with stringent European environmental regulations. Returning in 2021 as a commercial vehicle—with rear seats removed and a cargo partition installed—the model complied with less rigorous standards. However, by 2025, the Jimny was discontinued across Europe owing to tighter emission laws and the absence of an immediate electric alternative.
GCC
In GCC countries, the Jimny 3-door was launched in February 2021 with two trim choices: GL (manual) and GLX (automatic). The introduction of the 5-door variant occurred on 1 November 2023.
Mexico
The Jimny debuted in Mexico on 12 November 2020 as a single GLX trim, available with either manual or automatic transmissions. The initial allocation of 1,000 units sold out within three days.
Australia
Australia received the Jimny on 24 January 2019, initially offered solely in the GLX trim with manual or automatic transmissions. In June 2021, a base Lite trim was added featuring steel wheels, halogen headlights, and a basic audio system. The Jimny’s 5-door version, branded as the Jimny XL, launched on 5 December 2023 with both transmission options.
New Zealand
New Zealand introduced the Jimny on 14 March 2019 under the name Jimny Sierra, available in one variant equipped with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The country saw the arrival of the Jimny’s 5-door model on 23 January 2024, offered exclusively in one variant with identical transmission choices.
South Africa
Suzuki released the Jimny in South Africa on 2 November 2018 across two trims: GA and GLX, both offering either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. A mid-level GL trim was added to the lineup in March 2022.
The Jimny’s five-door configuration became available in South Africa on 14 November 2023, offered in GL and GLX trims.
Electric variant
A battery-powered iteration of the Jimny was initially slated for launch around the year 2030. Nonetheless, the company’s president later indicated that this plan might be abandoned, expressing apprehension that it could diminish the authentic 4x4 driving experience.
Evolution timeline
The following tables provide an overview of the Jimny's progression within the Japanese domestic market, emphasizing significant export model differences.
| First generation Jimny development (1970–1981) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Second generation Jimny development (1981–1998) | ||||||||
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| Third generation Jimny development (1998–2018)
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|---|---|---|---|
| Fourth generation Jimny development (2018–present)
| |||
|---|---|---|---|
(Note: Detailed tables for the second through fourth generations are excluded here due to length but can be found in comprehensive records.)
Sales
| 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 |
- 2020 |38,056 |10,063 |977 | - 2021 |39,422 |563 |795 | - 2022 |41,405 |459 |1,168 | - 2023 |39,910 | |812 | - 2024 |41,405 | |2,445 | |
Further reading
External links
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