Yomper 4×4, a British start-up company based in West Yorkshire, unveiled their first model that is simply called the Yomper SUV. If the looks seem familiar, it is because the “utility-focused SUV” is basically a heavily modified previous generation Suzuki Jimny converted into a pickup. The popularity of the Jimny and the fact that it is based on a ladder-frame chassis has resulted in several pickup conversions from aftermarket companies, dealerships, and even Suzuki’s own Jimny Sierra Pickup Style concept from 2019. However, Yomper’s take is not based on the current model, but on its predecessor, and according to its CEO modifications are quite substantial.
The CEO added that a lot of people from
his local community complained about “the lack of a suitable small utility SUV
on the market” so he decided to make one. In that context, Yomper suggests
their vehicles are ideal for farm applications, off-road utility, or sports and
leisure activities.
The British start-up is offering two
different variants called the “Bergan” and the “Commercial”. Both are featuring
a significantly longer body than the production-spec Jimny, with a two-seater
cabin, the addition of a rear bed. However, they are different in terms of
wheelbase size – 225 inches for the Bergan and 275 inches for the Commercial –
and in terms of design.
More specifically, the Bergan looks like a
Jimny with a stretched rear overhang and a cut-off roof, while the slightly
longer Commercial features a metallic tray bed with drop sides. Additionally,
the models are fitted with chunky off-road tires, mudguards, cute tiny roof
rails, and Yomper stickers on the bonnet and front doors.
Both models are fitted with an overhauled
version of the stock 1.3-liter 16-valve four-cylinder petrol engine that has
been rebuilt. The motor is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox sending power
to all four wheels through Suzuki’s AWD system. The pickups are engineered for
a 500 kg payload capacity.
For those interested to buy the Yomper,
on-the-road pricing starts from under £ 20,000 (US$ 26,985) in the UK and comes
with a 12-month warranty. In fact, on the company’s official website we found
the orange Yomper JMV225B Bergan listed for £ 16,995 (US$ 22,927) before taxes, and
the green Yomper JMV275 Commercial priced at £ 17,995 (US$ 24,276) before taxes.
Owners of the previous generation Suzuki Jimny can also ask for a conversion,
with a negotiable cost depending on the preferred specification.