Introduction

The Suzuki Jimny has long been celebrated for its rugged, off-road capabilities packed into a compact frame. When the fourth generation Suzuki Jimny was discontinued in some markets due to emissions regulations, many thought it was the end for this beloved small SUV. However, Suzuki has brought it back in a surprising form—the Jimny LCV (Light Commercial Vehicle). Retaining the same off-road prowess, this new variant is designed as a small but capable van. If you’re in need of a compact 4×4 that doubles as a workhorse, the Jimny LCV might just be the van you didn’t know you needed.

A Surprise Return

When the fourth generation Jimny launched, it was met with praise for being an affordable, small, and highly capable 4×4. Unfortunately, it was pulled from many markets due to its inability to meet stringent CO2 emissions regulations. The 1.5-liter petrol engine was a bit too much for Suzuki’s overall fleet average, which forced the beloved model off the road in its passenger form.
However, Suzuki found a loophole by reclassifying the Jimny as a light commercial vehicle (LCV). LCVs fall under different emissions standards, allowing Suzuki to bring the Jimny back into the market, albeit as a van. This transformation has kept all the features that made the Jimny great, but with more space and utility.

Off-Road Capabilities: Still Unmatched

Let’s be clear: the Suzuki Jimny LCV is made for those who need true off-road capability. If your main driving is confined to city streets, you may find the Jimny’s ride a bit jarring. The ride crashes over bumps, and its high, slab-sided body leans through corners. It’s better than its pre-2018 version, but still not ideal for pure city driving.
That said, the Jimny is incredibly light, weighing just 1,090 kg, which adds to its nimbleness off-road. Paired with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine that generates 110 horsepower, the Jimny LCV can reach a top speed of 90 mph. While these figures may not sound impressive for highway use, the story changes dramatically once you leave the pavement.
Off-road, the Jimny LCV is in its element. Suzuki’s lightweight 4×4 engineering allows it to tackle terrain that many larger, pricier SUVs wouldn’t dare approach. Equipped with a ladder frame chassis and three-link rigid axle suspension, it’s built to take on tough environments. You also get Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4×4 system, offering two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and four-wheel drive with a low-range option. Added technology, such as Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control, makes it even more capable in challenging conditions.

Design: Small But Purposeful

On the outside, the Jimny LCV looks very much like its passenger predecessor. Its compact dimensions are paired with flared wheel arches and rugged side panels that hint at its off-road nature. The spare wheel mounted on the tailgate adds a functional yet classic touch to its design. Longstanding Jimny features like round headlights and independent indicators give the vehicle a charming, retro look.
Inside, things are understandably a bit more utilitarian. The dashboard is simple, functional, and dominated by black plastic. Unlike more modern vehicles, the Jimny LCV lacks a central infotainment screen, but what it does have is well laid out and easy to use. Space is at a premium, and the front seat footwells feel tight, so the driver and front passenger may find themselves sitting a bit close. However, for short trips and off-road excursions, the seats provide enough comfort.

Utility: A Practical Little Van

To qualify as a commercial vehicle, Suzuki had to remove the rear seats, leaving the Jimny LCV with a flat loading area. This increases the cargo space to 0.86 cubic meters (863 liters), offering 33 liters more than the previous passenger version with the seats folded down. The front seats have also been moved forward slightly to accommodate the larger load space.
Though compact, the Jimny LCV is practical for light commercial use. However, if you’re expecting it to carry a hefty load, you might be disappointed. Its payload capacity is limited to 150 kg, which is significantly less than most supermini-based vans. Still, for those who need a nimble, off-road-capable vehicle with some storage, the Jimny LCV fits the bill.

Pricing and Features

The Jimny LCV is priced at £16,796 (excluding VAT), making it an affordable option for businesses or individuals looking for a versatile vehicle. The LCV comes with a solid set of standard features, including 15-inch steel wheels, a basic DAB radio with Bluetooth, air conditioning, and a multifunction steering wheel.
When it comes to safety, Suzuki has carried over many features from the passenger model. You’ll find Suzuki’s Dual Sensor Brake Support system, which helps prevent collisions by automatically applying the brakes in case of an emergency. Other safety features include Hill Descent Control, Hill Hold, and tire pressure monitoring, ensuring that the Jimny LCV remains as safe as it is capable.

Running Costs and Environmental Impact

Despite the Jimny LCV being reintroduced as a commercial vehicle, its 1.5-liter engine isn’t the most environmentally friendly. The Jimny’s 36.7 mpg and 173 grams of CO2 per kilometer aren’t spectacular, but they’re manageable for a small SUV with 4×4 capabilities. Its relatively lightweight build helps keep fuel consumption in check, but the lack of modern electrification holds it back from being a truly eco-friendly vehicle.
Suzuki does offer a fixed-price servicing package, which covers parts, labor, and VAT once the vehicle is three years old. The standard warranty is three years or 60,000 miles, with an additional year of breakdown cover throughout Europe.

Is the Suzuki Jimny LCV Right for You?

The Suzuki Jimny LCV is a unique vehicle in today’s market. Its off-road abilities make it a top choice for those who need a small, capable 4×4 van. However, if you’re seeking a commercial vehicle for regular city use with heavy loads, the Jimny LCV might not be the best option due to its limited cargo capacity and less-than-ideal road manners.
For those who loved the Jimny in passenger form, this LCV variant offers one last chance to own this iconic vehicle before it’s gone for good. With only 400 units available, it’s a rare opportunity to indulge in a versatile and rugged van that can handle more than you might expect. If you want to see it in action, check out this full review: NEW Suzuki Jimny LCV Review.