The e-Vitara presented a few days ago is the first 100% electric Suzuki. An important step for the Japanese brand, which will also be launching other battery-powered models in the coming years. However, these will not include the Jimny, which has always been one of the most iconic Suzuki models in the entire range.

A choice already made by the top management of the Japanese brand, who – at least for the moment – do not want to change the spirit of the small off-roader.

The Jimny must remain “true to itself”

Why will the Jimny never be electric? Suzuki president Toshihiro Suzuki gave the reason. According to him, the weight of the battery pack and electric motors would ‘ruin’ one of the Jimny’s main traits, namely lightness. 

The impression, therefore, is that until advances in technology permit, Suzuki will only fit combustion engines. 

It has to be said that these statements are in open contrast to what was announced in 2023, when in the presentation of its roadmap, Suzuki clearly included an image of an electric off-roader with the unmistakable appearance of a Jimny.

Suzuki’s roadmap shown in 2023 anticipating the arrival of the electric Jimny

No to hybrids, yes to e-fuels

In addition to an electric version, Suzuki also ruled out plans for a hybrid model based on the Jimny, regardless of the degree of electrification (mild hybrid, full hybrid or plug-in). No new mechanicals on the horizon, then, for the off-roader, which will continue to be sold in Europe as a two-seater light commercial vehicle for the foreseeable future due to emissions regulations.

Suzuki Jimny Pro

At the same time, the Japanese brand’s number one said that the Jimny of tomorrow could be powered by synthetic or biofuels, but in any case it will not give up the combustion engine. We will see, therefore, how it will turn out.