The Suzuki Jimny electric is a thing?

Last updated:29/01/2024

The little off-roader with a big personality may return to the UK market, only this time as the Suzuki Jimny electric.

Those who have read my Suzuki Jimny review will know I am a fan. Unfortunately, due to its emission-heavy, inefficient 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol sales in the UK were withdrawn before it was brought back as a commercial vehicle without rear seats.

This must have been bad news for Suzuki as the 1,135kg off-roader had been widely praised by the motoring press. A car with sizeable flaws and a narrow use case that ended up far surpassing the sum of its parts. Fortunately, it appears to be coming back as an electric vehicle (EV).

The Suzuki Jimny electric was originally noticed as part of a Suzuki ‘Growth Strategy’ document, in which a Jimny silouhette is clearly visible alongside four other electric vehicles – the first of which is said to be arriving in 2024.

Now, having chatted with Suzuki representatives who represent the UK division, it seems more than likely a Suzuki Jimny EV will grace our UK shores once again (with rear seats). With a higher price tag and a fair few extra kilograms, I suspect.

Due to emissions regulations, it makes sense for Suzuki to move away from its current hybrid and combustion-based vehicles. That and a thirst for more eco-friendly smaller vehicles combined with the popularity of the Jimny could make it a winner. If, of course, it is priced right.

Suzuki first teased a move into all-electric electric vehicles market with the eVX concept (pictured below), which was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in late October 2023.