A Suzuki Jimny Update Is On The Horizon, But Don’t Anticipate Any Major Changes | Carscoops

      The fourth generation of the Jimny has been available since 2018 with no significant upgrades.

      Suzuki is reportedly set to launch an updated Jimny in the Japanese market this August.

      The three-door version of the Jimny will feature the latest safety enhancements from the five-door Jimny Nomade.

      This time, the exterior, interior, and mechanical elements are expected to remain the same.

      While the Suzuki Jimny may not be widely available, it has achieved cult-like status globally. Even in the United States, where it remains unavailable, this compact off-roader has a considerable fan base. As the current fourth-generation model nears its seventh anniversary, there is increasing speculation regarding a mid-cycle refresh.

      Recent reports from Japan indicate that Suzuki is preparing to unveil a lightly updated version in August, with anticipated changes being modest.

      Rather than major redesigns, the emphasis will be on technology. Both the Japanese-market Jimny and Jimny Sierra are expected to incorporate the newest version of Suzuki Safety Support, similar to that found in the Indian-built five-door Jimny Nomade that was added to the lineup earlier this year.

      According to Creative Trend, the updated models will implement Suzuki’s dual-camera autonomous emergency braking system and will feature a pause function for the traffic sign recognition system. For models equipped with the four-speed automatic transmission, additional driver assistance features such as Reverse Brake Support, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Adaptive Cruise Control will be included, significantly enhancing the previously limited ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems) offerings.

      Why No Exterior Changes?

      In terms of appearance, the Jimny is expected to maintain its current design, which has largely remained the same since 2018. This continuity is probably not a concern for enthusiasts, as serious off-road fans typically don’t demand aesthetic changes.

      Reports from Japanese media suggest that Suzuki has no intentions of introducing styling updates or special editions with this refresh. The main reason for this decision is practical; the company is still addressing a substantial backlog of orders, particularly for the Jimny Sierra and Jimny Nomade.

      The demand has been so overwhelming that Suzuki had to entirely suspend orders for the Nomade after gathering 50,000 reservations in only four days, equating to around 3.5 years of anticipated production.

      There are also no signs of modifications under the hood. In Japan, the narrow-body Jimny continues to utilize its kei car-compliant 660cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine, whereas the Jimny Sierra and Nomade maintain the naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine available in global markets.

      What About Other Regions?

      Once the refreshed model is introduced in Japan, it is likely that similar updates will follow in other areas. For instance, in Australia, the three-door Jimny was withdrawn from the market due to safety compliance issues. With the new Safety Support technology included, it is probable that the three-door version will return alongside the still-available five-door variant.

      In Europe, Suzuki has been releasing farewell special editions of the current Jimny, indicating that an update is on the horizon. The introduction of hybrid or mild-hybrid technology would enable the company to offer a passenger version of the off-roader in Europe again, following emission regulations that required it to be sold solely as a two-seater LCV.

      However, a fully electric version of the Jimny is no longer being considered. Last year, President Toshihiro Suzuki stated that the model would continue with a non-electrified combustion engine while the company explores alternative fuels. This effectively rules out the previously proposed electric model for European consumers.