Why Are Suzuki Jimny Prices So High—and Still Rising?
If you’ve been browsing the classifieds lately, you might have noticed something curious about the Suzuki Jimny. Despite being a relatively affordable new car just a few years ago, used Jimnys are now fetching anywhere from £21,000 to £50,000 depending on age and condition. What’s going on here? The answer comes down to a mix of cult status, limited supply, and a dash of nostalgia that’s hard to resist.
The Jimny’s fourth generation, launched in 2018, hit the sweet spot for enthusiasts and collectors alike. With its boxy, retro-inspired design and genuine off-road chops, it quickly became more than just another compact SUV. Add to that the fact that the passenger version was only sold in the UK for two years, and the commercial van variant was pulled in 2024, and you’ve got a recipe for scarcity. When demand outpaces supply—especially for quirky, characterful models like this—prices don’t just hold steady; they climb.
Is the Jimny Really Worth More Than Its Cheaper Rivals?
Let’s be honest: if you’re looking for a budget 4×4, the Dacia Duster and Fiat Panda 4×4 both offer solid capability at a lower price point. So why are buyers willing to pay a premium for the Jimny? It’s not just about the badge or the looks—though those certainly help.
The Jimny’s appeal lies in its unique blend of ruggedness and charm. Its four-wheel drive system, low-range gearbox, and impressive breakover and departure angles put it in the same conversation as much larger, pricier off-roaders. Think of it as a scaled-down Toyota Land Cruiser or a baby Land Rover Defender, but with a personality all its own. For those who want a vehicle that’s as happy tackling muddy trails as it is turning heads on the high street, the Jimny is hard to beat.
How Does the Jimny Perform Off-Road and On the Tarmac?
Take the Jimny off the beaten path, and you’ll see why it’s earned such a loyal following. Its light weight means it skips over rough tracks and muddy lanes with surprising agility. In fact, some owners describe it as a mountain goat—nimble, sure-footed, and always up for a challenge. That said, its low ground clearance means you’ll want to think twice before attempting serious rock crawling without a few upgrades.
And upgrades are easy to come by. Specialist firms offer everything from beefed-up suspension to underbody protection, letting you tailor your Jimny into a true off-road weapon if that’s your thing.
On the road, though, there are trade-offs. The ride can feel choppy at low speeds, especially on rough surfaces. There’s noticeable body roll in corners, and the steering is slow-geared—quirks you’ll either find endearing or mildly frustrating, depending on your priorities. Still, for city driving and the occasional country jaunt, the Jimny is a fun, characterful companion.
What’s the Jimny Like to Live With Day-to-Day?
Under the hood, the Jimny is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 100bhp. That’s plenty for farm tracks and city streets, but on the motorway, it can feel a bit out of its depth. Push it hard, and you’ll notice the engine noise creeping in, though it’s still quieter than some classic off-roaders.
Inside, the Jimny keeps things simple. There are chunky physical controls that make it easy to adjust settings on the go, even if the materials feel a bit utilitarian. The SZ4 trim comes with steel wheels, while the SZ5 adds a few creature comforts: alloy wheels, LED headlights, climate control, heated seats, and a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen (borrowed from the Suzuki Swift). The graphics might not wow you, but smartphone mirroring helps bridge the gap.
Space is tight in the back—think two kids, no middle seat, and a boot that’ll hold a couple of shopping bags at best. If you need more room for gear, the Commercial version swaps the rear seats for an 863-litre cargo area, making it a surprisingly practical little workhorse.
Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Jimny?
Given the current market, there’s a strong case for acting sooner rather than later if you’re eyeing a Jimny. With supply dwindling and demand holding strong, prices are unlikely to drop anytime soon. And unlike many modern cars that lose value the moment you drive them off the lot, the Jimny’s cult status means it could even appreciate over time.
The big takeaway? Owning a Suzuki Jimny isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re after a daily driver with a bit of spirit or a weekend adventurer that stands out from the crowd, the Jimny delivers a blend of fun, utility, and investment potential that’s tough to match.