The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door, imported from India, was unveiled in Japan on January 30 and renamed the Jimny Nomade—a name previously used for the 5-Door version of the Suzuki Escudo and the JDM version of the Vitara.
Despite some controversy, the Suzuki Jimny 5-Door quickly became a best-seller. The local quota sold out, and more than 50,000 orders were placed within a week of its arrival in the Japanese market. This far exceeded Suzuki’s expectations, prompting the company to suspend orders due to concerns about meeting demand.
In response to the unexpected surge in orders, Suzuki issued a statement apologizing to customers who have already placed orders and those considering a purchase. The company is working to accelerate production and logistics to resume order acceptance as soon as possible, ensuring that every customer receives their vehicle promptly. The overwhelming market response highlights the strong appeal of the Jimny series.
According to Best Car Web, the waiting period for the Jimny Nomade could extend to 3.5 years, based on Suzuki’s planned production rate of 1,200 units per month. The publication notes that this would be the second-longest waiting period for a vehicle in Japan, behind only the Toyota Land Cruiser 300, which has a four-year waiting list.
The Jimny Nomade has received a response in Japan similar to that of the three-door Jimny, which had a three-year waiting list after its 2018 launch. However, customers looking to buy the three-door Jimny today may still face wait times of up to a year, according to Best Car Web sources from Suzuki dealerships.
Additionally, the publication reports that customers ordering the Nomade must sign a pledge agreeing not to resell the vehicle.
The all-new Jimny 5-Door features significantly larger dimensions compared to the traditional 3-Door version. It measures 3,850 mm (L) × 1,645 mm (W) × 1,730 mm (H), with an extended wheelbase of 2,550 mm. This design provides more legroom for rear passengers and greatly enhances storage capacity and comfort on long journeys.
The Suzuki Jimny 5-Door is now available in Saudi Arabia as a fully built-up (CBU) import from India, priced from SAR 99,590.
Both the Saudi and Japanese versions share the same powertrain: a naturally aspirated 1.5L four-cylinder petrol engine (K15B) producing 102 hp and 130 Nm of torque. The Saudi model offers a choice between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Jimny is not marketed as a high-performance vehicle, its power output and excellent fuel efficiency make it well-suited for daily driving.
Meanwhile, the new Jimny 5-Door retains its off-road capabilities without compromise. Equipped with an advanced full-time four-wheel-drive system and three differential locks (front, center, and rear), it ensures optimal power distribution and traction across various terrains, delivering a stable and reliable driving experience.
With overwhelming demand, Suzuki is actively working to manage production and supply chain pressures. The high number of orders not only reflects strong market recognition of the Jimny series but also shows that more consumers are eager to experience this versatile vehicle, which balances everyday practicality with extreme off-road capability.
Source: Carwatch
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
