Suzuki “Jimny” is one of the most appreciated off-road vehicles on the market thanks to its excellent balance of performance, functionality, and price. Compact in size yet spacious inside and rich in terms of features, it boasts off-road capabilities comparable to, if not superior to, those offered by more prestigious American and British competitors. However, it achieves this with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 102 horsepower, with fuel consumption affordable for everyone. Its reduced dimensions also allow it to navigate environments and trails that are off-limits to larger off-road vehicles, while its simple and, in some ways, traditional mechanics—based on a ladder frame—facilitate customizations aimed at racing or specialized off-roading.
All this is combined with a cheerful and carefree look that has also captivated less sporty users for over half a century. In fact, the car was introduced to the market in the early 1970s with the “LJ10” model, a pure and rugged off-roader, which in 1981 gave way to a second generation. This model was a forerunner of modern SUVs because, while still offering excellent off-road performance, it was also practical for daily use as a compact car. The formula led to global success, encouraging Japanese engineers to enhance the utility aspect of the vehicle with the launch of the third series in 1998. This version was even more comfortable, aerodynamically optimized, and enjoyable to drive on asphalt, while still remaining faithful to its off-road capabilities.
From Off-Road to Urban Traffic
This was achieved thanks to the presence of rigid-axle suspension both at the front and rear, as well as the “4WD AllGrip Pro” all-wheel-drive system, which operates primarily in rear-wheel drive but allows the front wheels to be engaged even while in motion and low-range gears to be activated when stationary. These features have further evolved over time, reaching their peak in the current “Jimny.” However, in Italy, it is sold only in the “Pro” variant, classified as a two-seater commercial vehicle due to the absurd and restrictive European anti-pollution regulations. These laws penalize compact vehicles powered by efficient thermal engines to promote costly and heavy electric behemoths.
Over 900 Liters of Cargo Capacity
The two-seater classification results in a rear cargo volume of nearly 900 liters, but it has obviously been a significant limitation for the car’s popularity, making it accessible only to a niche audience. This prompted Suzuki’s decision to withdraw it completely from the market, but not before introducing one final and exclusive version named “Jimny Mata.” This model incorporates all the technical and functional features that define the “Jimny,” pairing them with a silver body and black roof. Its lines are accentuated by a vintage front grille with clean shapes. Standard features include a front guard integrated into the bumper that adds muscularity to the design, side protections to shield the body panels, aluminum shields for the differential and underbody, and an additional set of light alloy wheels for changing tires with the seasons. It is, in effect, a swan song worthy of a star, but one that should not be taken for granted. The Japanese term “mata” can be translated as “again” and “beyond,” a phrase that can be interpreted as an invitation to await a future new generation of the small Japanese off-roader.
Title: Suzuki “Jimny Mata”, the retro style swan song
Translation with ChatGPT
