Suzuki has finally brought the highly anticipated five-door Jimny to the Japanese market, christening it the "Nomade." This eagerly awaited variant, first introduced in India two years ago, expands the Jimny's appeal by offering enhanced practicality and versatility. While retaining the legendary off-road prowess of its three-door sibling, the Jimny Nomade boasts increased accessibility and comfort for passengers, courtesy of the addition of rear doors and a significantly extended wheelbase.
The five-door Jimny Nomade boasts a substantial increase in overall length, measuring 3,890 mm compared to the 3,395 mm of the three-door Jimny Sierra. This 340 mm increase in length is entirely attributed to an extended wheelbase, now measuring 2,590 mm. This crucial modification translates into significantly improved rear passenger space, offering greater comfort and legroom for occupants. Furthermore, the extended wheelbase has resulted in increased cargo capacity, enhancing the Jimny's practicality for everyday use and weekend adventures.
Despite the extended dimensions, the Jimny Nomade maintains the iconic boxy design that has captivated enthusiasts worldwide. The front and rear styling closely mirror the rugged aesthetics of the three-door Jimny Sierra, retaining its distinctive character and off-road presence. Subtle refinements include a Gun Metallic finish for the five-slot grille and a plated frame, adding a touch of sophistication. The Nomade also introduces a range of new exterior color options, including the striking Sizzling Red Metallic and the elegant Celestial Blue Pearl Metallic, further enhancing its visual appeal.
The extended wheelbase has a minimal impact on the Jimny's renowned off-road capabilities. The vehicle maintains the same approach and departure angles as its three-door counterpart, thanks to carefully optimized overhangs. The ramp angle, however, has been slightly reduced to 25 degrees due to the increased wheelbase.
Powering the Jimny Nomade is the familiar and robust 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine, delivering 103 horsepower and 134 Nm of torque. Buyers have the option of a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission or a convenient four-speed automatic transmission. All variants feature Suzuki's proven part-time four-wheel drive system, ensuring exceptional off-road capability and confident handling in diverse conditions.
The Jimny Nomade is set to arrive at Japanese dealerships on April 3rd, priced at $17,200. This represents a premium of $3,700 over the three-door Jimny Sierra, reflecting the added value and enhanced functionality offered by the five-door configuration.
While the arrival of the Jimny Nomade in Japan is a significant milestone, Suzuki remains tight-lipped regarding the future of the Jimny model line. The company had previously expressed plans to introduce a fully electric version of the iconic SUV in Europe, however, recent statements from the Suzuki CEO suggest that these plans may have been shelved. Furthermore, rumors of a hybrid version, which have circulated for years, have been downplayed by the company.
Despite these uncertainties, the introduction of the Jimny Nomade signifies Suzuki's commitment to the enduring legacy of this iconic off-roader, offering a compelling option for those seeking a blend of rugged capability, practicality, and distinctive style.