Extended, five-door Jimny prototype could be first indication of off-roader launching with electrified drivetrain.
The Suzuki Jimny has been spotted testing with five doors and there are hints that it could house an electrified powertrain.
The compact 4×4 was pulled from sales in Europe in 2020 due to the adverse effect it was having on Suzuki’s fleet-average CO2 emissions, although it has remained on sale in Australia and other markets.
However, its presence in Europe suggests it might have a new drivetrain. In 2021, it was brought back as a limited-run two-seat commercial car that was able to get around the passenger-car emissions rules for Europe, albeit missing a second row of seats.
Now though, the Jimny has been spotted testing in Europe once again, with a substantially longer wheelbase hinting at a new five-door bodyshell. It was reportedly seen running with its engine off, suggesting some sort of hybrid powertrain is under the bonnet. Suzuki no longer offers non-electrified engines in Europe, so a hybrid powertrain could be the Jimny’s ticket back to dealerships in the region.
It’s expected that a Jimny hybrid would use a powertrain similar to that offered in the Suzuki Vitara. Options include a 95kW 1.4-litre turbo petrol mild hybrid and an 84kW 1.5-litre full hybrid.
Aside from being made more compliant with a cleaner powertrain, the Jimny could also be made more competitive in adopting a pair or rear doors. The added practicality would strengthen its use case in light of larger rivals. It’s expected to have a wheelbase 300mm longer than the standard 2550mm, while width and height are expected to be unchanged.
Will Rimell