The Suzuki Jimny, a beloved off-roader often compared to the iconic G-Class, has again captured attention. This time, however, it’s not the classic 3-door model making waves. The new 5-door Jimny Nomad has taken center stage, igniting excitement among off-road enthusiasts and causing a stir in the automotive world.
The Legacy of the Jimny
First released in 1970, the Jimny has long been a favorite among off-road lovers due to its lightweight, durable body and exceptional 4WD capabilities. The current fourth-generation model, introduced in 2018, has continued to impress with its timeless design and robust performance. Now, the Jimny Nomad aims to take things a step further by addressing the practical limitations of the original 3-door version.
Explosive Demand for the Jimny Nomad
The Jimny Nomad, produced in India and imported to Japan, has a significantly longer wheelbase, 340 mm (13.4 inches), and an overall length of 3890 mm (153.1 inches). These changes create more space in the second row and cargo area, enhancing practicality. Additionally, the frame rigidity has been reinforced with cross-members at the center and rear of the body, boosting its durability.
The response from Japanese consumers has been nothing short of overwhelming. Just four days after its launch, the Jimny Nomad received an astounding 50,000 orders, far exceeding Suzuki’s expectations. As a result, Suzuki had no choice but to temporarily halt new orders, as the demand far outpaced the initial production plan. The company has since announced that it will gradually process the existing contracts.
Shift in Demand: Shorter Wait Times for the Sierra
Interestingly, the demand for the 3-door Jimny Sierra has also undergone an unexpected shift. Previously, customers had to wait more than a year for delivery, but the wait time has been significantly reduced. This change is because many consumers who initially reserved the 3-door Sierra have switched to the 5-door Nomad, leading to a drop in demand for the original model.
A Suzuki dealer in Tokyo noted that the Jimny Sierra is now available for delivery in about 10 months for the automatic transmission (AT) model and 6 to 7 months for the manual transmission (MT) version—much shorter than the previous wait time. With this reduction in waiting periods, now might be the right time for consumers waiting for the Sierra to make their purchase.
The Future of the Nomad and Sierra
While the Jimny Nomad’s sales have been paused, there’s no definitive timeline for when reservations will reopen. Given the ongoing demand for the 5-door model, it’s likely that another frenzy will occur once inventory becomes available. Meanwhile, the 3-door Sierra’s inventory is relatively plentiful, making it an attractive option for those seeking a quicker delivery.
The Jimny has evolved beyond a mere vehicle; it’s become a cultural icon. It remains to be seen how long the Nomad craze will last and what lasting impact it will have on the popularity of the Sierra model. Regardless, the Jimny’s enduring appeal shows no signs of waning.
