The Jimny is being reborn as a rally-inspired hot hatch with DAMD
The Suzuki Jimny, an off-road icon with a devoted fan base, is about to transform remarkably just in time for the highly anticipated 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon. This evolution is orchestrated by the creative minds at DAMD, a Japanese tuning firm celebrated for its prowess in crafting distinctive body kits for compact Japanese vehicles. Their showcase will feature two visually striking creations paying tribute to iconic European models—the Renault 5 and the revered Lancia Delta Integrale.
Photo: DAMD
Photo: DAMD
DAMD’s reimagining of the Jimny as a French city car draws inspiration from the Renault 5, incorporating headlights reminiscent of the small hatchback and a radiator grille that mirrors the iconic features of the Renault model. The addition of white OZ wheels imparts a rally-ready aesthetic to the Jimny, while a modest spoiler at the rear pays homage to the gentle wing of the Renault 5. An amusing touch comes in the form of a decal on the side, humorously indicating that this is a non-turbo model, a departure from the original Renault 5 Turbo.
Photo: DAMD
Photo: DAMD
DAMD has also crafted a Jimny inspired by the Lancia Delta Integrale for those seeking a more aggressive appearance. This rendition captures the spirit of the Italian rally hatch with four circular headlights and yellow fog lamps seamlessly integrated into the bumper. A larger spoiler at the rear completes the transformation, exuding a more hardcore rally vibe.
Photo: DAMD
Photo: DAMD
Regrettably, the captivating rally aesthetics of these two crossovers do not extend to enhancements under the hood. In Japan, the compact off-roader is equipped with a diminutive turbocharged 658-cc three-cylinder engine generating 63 hp and 96 Nm of torque. A 1.5-liter naturally aspirated mill boasting 101 hp and 138 Nm of torque is offered on international markets. Despite the visually striking modifications, the performance figures of the Jimny remain unaltered, or at least there is yet to be a word of any performance upgrades whatsoever. We will find out once the YugaAuto team arrives at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon.
