2026 Suzuki Jimny update spied testing

The Suzuki Jimny has been caught cold-weather testing ahead of expected updates for the pint-size off-roader.

Images posted to Instagram show camouflaged Jimny prototypes driving in snow, with a blanked-out front fascia with LED light strips.

Some media outlets are reporting this as being proof of an electric Jimny being in development. However, on closer inspection, the images appear to show vehicles featuring front and rear differentials and a solid rear axle.

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While this does not categorically rule out the possibility of an electric powertrain, it’s uncommon for automakers to use traditional mechanical differentials on an electric vehicle (EV) – even an off-roader.

As for the new-look front-end, manufacturers have been known to substitute headlights for aftermarket units in an effort to disguise any design changes until closer to a vehicle’s launch.

Both five-door Jimny test vehicles do appear to have new side mirrors, which points to the possibility of the vehicle receiving a surround-view camera or blind-spot monitoring systems in the future.

With the previous-generation Jimny in production for 10 years – replaced by the current model in 2018 – it suggests Suzuki may be planning to extend production of the latter until the end of this decade.

Suzuki sold 7027 examples of the Jimny last year, down 27.5 per cent on the record 9697 examples it sold in 2024 but retaining its position as the Japanese small-car brand's top-seller.

MORE: Explore the Suzuki Jimny showroom