Suzuki Jimny Mata Is Your Last Chance To Own A Non-Electrified Version In Europe

The Suzuki Jimny is entering the twilight of its current generation, as the brand prepares to roll out a mid-lifecycle update. But before it does, Suzuki Italia has given the rugged little off-roader a final hurrah in the form of a limited-edition model, restricted to just 150 individually numbered units for the Italian market.

Dubbed the Jimny Mata, this special edition is a follow-up to the one-off concept showcased at the 2024 Turin Motor Show, and it carries forward a few of the original’s distinctive design flourishes. Unlike the standard Jimny, the Mata receives a suite of subtle yet impactful visual tweaks and rugged accessories aimed at enhancing its throwback appeal.

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The Mata’s exterior stands out with a bi-tone finish that pairs Metallic Siberian Silver with Matt Black accents across the hood, pillars, and roof. The front end features a vintage Suzuki grille. The aluminum-style skid plate matches the side skirts, contrasting with the unpainted plastic finish of the bumpers and fender extensions.

The profile features protective stripes on the doors and a set of mud flaps. The Jimny Mata rides on 15-inch alloy wheels, with an extra set supplied for use with winter tires. At the back, there is a rigid cover for the spare wheel. Finally, the off-roader benefits from extra aluminum underbody protection.

Inside, the cabin keeps things relatively simple, with the only unique touch being a numbered plaque on the dashboard to mark each unit. Based on a high-spec trim level, the Jimny Mata comes equipped with a 7-inch infotainment system, a Pioneer audio setup, a rearview camera, heated seats, and a sprinkling of basic ADAS features. The cargo area is lined with a rubber mat, a practical addition that helps keep things neat and easy to clean.

As with all EU-spec Jimnys since 2021, the special edition is exclusively available as a two-seater LCV due to emission regulations. Under the hood lies the stock naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter engine, producing 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS) and 130 Nm (96 lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to all four wheels exclusively via a 5-speed manual transmission.

The Jimny Says ‘See You Soon’

The name “Mata” means “again, beyond” in Japanese, and it’s commonly used in the expression Mata-ne, or “see you soon.” Suzuki Italia thought this was a fitting name for the final version of the current Jimny, acknowledging that “this could be the last chance to buy it before an indefinite break”. The company hopes the break will be temporary, criticizing European regulations for “unfairly penalizing light cars”.

Looking forward, the facelifted Jimny is expected to feature an electrified (aka hybrid) powertrain that would allow the model to return to the European market as a passenger vehicle rather than an LCV. Suzuki has also confirmed that a fully electric Jimny is in the works, aimed squarely at the European market. Rumor has it that a pickup variant might also be on the way, expanding the Jimny’s lineup to include more than just the familiar three-door and newly introduced five-door SUV bodies.

Italian buyers can place orders for the Suzuki Jimny Mata starting November 30, giving enthusiasts one last chance to grab this distinctive off-roader before it temporarily exits the stage.