The adorable Suzuki Jimny was introduced back in 2018, but despite rumors and reports resurfacing from time to time, the automaker has yet to reveal the long-awaited five-door variant of the popular off-roader. Spy photographers spotted a camouflaged prototype of the five-door Suzuki Jimny testing in Europe, confirming the rumors and proving we are getting closer to its debut.

The prototype was photographed along the regular three-door Suzuki Jimny after Suzuki employees unloaded it from the back of a truck in a remote location. Back in 2021, we spotted a long-wheelbase prototype of the Jimny but that one only came with three doors.

 

Despite being fully covered in camouflage wrap, it is obvious that it comes with an extended wheelbase, extra windows at the back, and a set of rear doors. The front and rear ends of the model appear to be identical to the regular Jimny. The interior sports what appears to be a much larger infotainment touchscreen, alongside the unchanged analog dials and special equipment for evaluation purposes.

Reports from India suggest that the five-door Jimny will come with a 2,550 mm wheelbase, which is 300 mm longer than the three-door Jimny. The SUV is said to measure 3,850 mm long, with the other dimensions remaining unchanged. The stretched ladder-frame architecture and the extra bodywork will bring increased legroom for the rear passengers, and a more practical trunk, making it more suitable for a wider range of customers.

 

Strict emission regulations in Europe have forced Suzuki to offer the three-door Jimny exclusively in two-seater LCV form since 2021. This is going to change soon, since the automaker is reportedly electrifying the off-roader, as with the rest of its lineup. The five-door Jimny will most likely benefit from the addition of mild-hybrid technology, although Suzuki also has a full-hybrid system in its lineup. Our sources claim that the naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter will be swapped for a mild-hybrid turbocharged engine, helping improve the performance credentials despite the extra weight.

The five-door Suzuki Jimny, rumored to get the “Long” moniker, is expected to debut sometime in late 2022 or early 2023. The model will likely arrive together with a facelifted version of the regular three-door Jimny, benefiting from the same mechanical updates in terms of electrification.