Suzuki Jimny 5-Door to be Available in Japan

The Suzuki Jimny, a compact and rugged off-roader is making waves with the introduction of its 5-door variant. This longer and more practical version of the Jimny is exclusively produced at the Gurugram plant in India. While initially targeted at international markets such as India, Africa, and Latin America, there's exciting news for Japanese customers as well. A high-ranking official, CV Raman, Chief Technology Officer of Maruti Suzuki, recently confirmed that the 5-door Jimny will eventually make its way to Japan, expanding the lineup for Japanese customers.

Currently, Japanese customers can access the locally-produced 3-door version of the Jimny, available in narrow-body kei-car and standard Sierra specifications. However, the introduction of the 5-door model in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) adds a new dimension to the Jimny lineup in Japan.

The 5-door Jimny, with a length of 3,985 mm (156.9 inches), is 340 mm (13.4 inches) longer than the global 3-door version. This extended length results from a stretched wheelbase which provides a more spacious cabin. Despite the added weight due to the increased size, the Indian-spec 5-door Jimny features a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine that delivers 103 hp (77 kW / 105 PS) and 134 Nm (99 lb-ft) of torque.

The 5-door Jimny opens up new possibilities for Japanese customers who seek a more practical and spacious version of this beloved off-road vehicle. While it was initially introduced in 2018, the Jimny is poised for a facelift, expected as early as next year. In January 2023, Suzuki announced its plans to introduce a fully electric Jimny for the European market, accompanied by an official teaser showcasing an illuminated grille and new LED graphics. Reading between the lines, this upcoming electric variant could coincide with a mid-lifecycle update for the internal combustion engine (ICE) Jimny sold globally. Since the 3-door and 5-door models share many body panels, the facelift may potentially be applied to both versions simultaneously.

In terms of powertrains, Jimny's lineup is likely to expand particularly in markets where electrification is a significant focus. Japan stands out in this regard, with Suzuki aiming for its local range to comprise 20% electric vehicles (EVs) and 80% hybrids by 2030. Conversely, Suzuki's plans for Europe lean more toward EVs, with a target mix of 80% EVs and 20% hybrids by 2030 and this demonstrates Suzuki's commitment to adapting its offerings to meet the evolving preferences and regulations of different markets.

The Jimny's entry into the 5-door market as well as the possibility of electric versions ensure that this classic off-road vehicle remains contemporary and appealing to a diverse range of purchasers in Japan and worldwide. The 5-door Jimny's entrance in Japan appears to be a promising development for enthusiasts of this flexible and durable car even though exact launch dates and more information are still coming. Suzuki is demonstrating vision and commitment to customer satisfaction by embracing electrification and adapting to shifting market demands as the vehicle industry transitions toward more sustainable mobility alternatives.