Suzuki Unveils The iM-4 Concept At Geneva, Hints At New Jimny

Suzuki didn’t just release one new concept at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. As previously reported, the other would be a 4x4 vehicle. This is it, the Suzuki iM-4 and it resembles the modern interpretation of what could be the next Suzuki Jimny.

For a bit of history, the Suzuki LJ (Light Jeep) series was introduced in 1970. Called the Light Jeep 10, it was the first Suzuki-branded four-wheel drive. From then, it has evolved into what we know as the Suzuki Jimny that is available here.

The iM-4 draws on that heritage and reimagines it in the shape of this concept. The relatively boxy design features plain surfaces with very subtle flared wheel arches that make room for the large-diameter 215/45R18 tyres wrapped around 18-inch wheels. The rectangular motif can be seen on the front and rear lower grilles, door mirrors and handles, and rear combination lamps.

The front fascia comprises of a meshed large grille covering the front end of the vehicle, accommodating the also rectangular headlamps. Other details include blacked-out A- and B-pillars, clamshell bonnet and front fender garnishing.

Beneath the panels lies a new-generation platform from Suzuki, designed for increased rigidity while being lighter. The company say this helps improves fuel efficiency, safety, handling, stability, and NVH performance. When comparing the iM-4’s dimensions to the current Jimny, the overall length (3,693 mm) is only 2 mm longer. However, the concept has a longer wheelbase (2,438 mm vs 2,250 mm) and is noticeably wider by 109 mm (1,709 mm).

Powering the concept is a mild hybrid system with a 1.2-litre DUALJET engine paired to what the company called SVHS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki). The system incorporates an integrated starter generator that provides engine power assistance using the motor and features power regeneration in the form of its regenerative braking system to charge the lithium-ion batteries.