Suzuki Jimny I (LJ) gallery (1970–1981)
The first-generation Suzuki Jimny off-road mini-SUV (LJ series) was manufactured from 1970 to 1981.
The Suzuki Jimny originated in April 1970 with the introduction of the LJ10 (Light Jeep 10), developed after Suzuki acquired the design rights to the HopeStar ON360 from Hope Motor Company. Engineered to meet Japanese kei-car dimensional regulations, the Jimny incorporated a robust steel ladder chassis, solid live axles with leaf spring suspension front and rear, and a part-time dual-range transfer case. The initial LJ10 featured canvas doors, a soft top, and a spare tire mounted inside the cabin behind the passenger seat to fit under length constraints.
Powering the LJ10 was an air-cooled 359 cc two-stroke twin-cylinder engine generating 25 hp. Subsequent iterations saw rapid upgrades: the LJ20 introduced liquid cooling in 1972, the LJ50 added a 539 cc three-cylinder engine in 1975, and the export-oriented LJ80 launched in 1977 debuted Suzuki's first four-stroke four-cylinder 797 cc F8A engine producing 41 hp. Hardtop van (LJ80V) and pickup variants were also added, cementing the Jimny's legendary global reputation for extreme off-road capability.
