The Suzuki Jimny makes its mark in history: the Japanese off-roader enters the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame

Without a doubt, the Suzuki Jimny has been one of the cars that has generated the most anticipation in the last two years since its launch. The Japanese brand managed to revolutionise the sector with a pure, fun vehicle, suited to off-road use and with an affordable price. However, the formula caused such a frenzy that the Suzuki itself could not keep up with demand, which quickly turned the Jimny into a coveted car. This good work by the Japanese brand has been recognised by the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame.

Every year, the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame selects three classic cars of historical significance to honour them. On this occasion, the Suzuki Jimny is joined by the Toyopet SKB and the Honda RA272, two vehicles that also earned public esteem, although with objectives very different from those of the Japanese off-roader.

But this is not a current story, since we must go back to 1970 to find the origins of the acclaimed Suzuki Jimny. At that time, the LJ10 -the name given to the first generation of the off-roader- began the tradition that has led Suzuki to keep creating pure 4×4 vehicles that are as tough as the Jimny.

The LJ10 won over the public of the era with its kei car status, its solid axles and its transfer case with a reduction gear. These elements are still respected in the contemporary Suzuki Jimny, a model that stays faithful to tradition but with a slightly modern flavour. The Japanese 4×4 has a ladder frame chassis with cross members, a reduction gear and a genuine, well-proven all-wheel drive system.

To this we must add a naturally aspirated four-cylinder 1.5-litre engine capable of delivering 102 CV and 130 Nm of torque. It is true that today the Jimny is sold in Europe as a commercial vehicle, a status that means it does without rear seats. Nevertheless, its essence remains intact and we still find the same off-roader we got to know two years ago.

This is how Suzuki has given us one of the modern off-roaders most faithful to the concept, while allowing a wider audience to access a 100% off-road vehicle without having to face an excessive outlay. We do not know what the future holds for the Suzuki Jimny under the tough European regulations, but we hope to keep seeing it roam these parts for many more years.