Key highlights
- Maruti Suzuki has exported over 75,000 units of the Jimny, while domestic sales remain under 27,000 units since launch.
- The Jimny has gained strong traction in Japan, Latin America, and Africa, where compact 4x4s are in high demand.
- In India, the SUV’s niche positioning and limited appeal have led to a sharp 49% drop in FY2025 sales.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny, once one of the most anticipated SUV launches in India, has found greater success overseas than in its home market. Since its debut in mid-2023, the five-door Jimny has crossed the 1 lakh unit mark globally, with exports accounting for nearly 75% of total dispatches.
While the SUV was expected to replicate the cult status of the Gypsy, domestic sales have struggled to keep pace. As of April 2025, Maruti has sold just 26,180 units in India, compared to 75,844 units exported to over 100 countries.
Why the Jimny works better abroad?
The Jimny’s retro-modern design, compact footprint, and serious off-road capability have made it a hit in markets like Japan, Mexico, Australia, and South Africa. In fact, the five-door version—branded as the Suzuki Nomade in Japan—received over 50,000 bookings within four days, forcing Suzuki to temporarily halt orders.
Its ladder-frame chassis, low-range gearbox, and 4WD system make it ideal for countries with narrow roads, rugged terrain, or tax benefits for compact vehicles.
India’s lukewarm response
Back home, the Jimny’s appeal has been more muted. Despite strong initial bookings, sales dropped 49% in FY2025 compared to the previous year.
The issue lies in positioning. Maruti marketed the Jimny as a hardcore off-roader, while Indian buyers in the ₹13–15 lakh bracket often prefer lifestyle SUVs with broader appeal. Rivals like the Mahindra Thar offer bolder styling, wider stance, and aspirational features, making them more attractive to urban buyers.
Additionally, the Jimny’s narrow cabin, dated 4-speed automatic gearbox, and modest 1.5L petrol engine have limited its desirability for daily use.
What’s next for the Jimny?
Maruti Suzuki is reportedly considering a 4×2 variant and cosmetic editions to broaden the Jimny’s appeal in India. These updates could help reposition the SUV as a lifestyle product rather than a niche off-roader.
Meanwhile, the Jimny continues to be a key export model, helping Maruti boost its UV export volumes by over 100% in the last fiscal year.
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