The most incredible SUV: The Suzuki Jimny that wants to be a Renault 5 Turbo

Best of all, the transformation from pure off-roader to classic car is cheaper than you might think.

Suzuki Jimny converted into a classic Renault 5 Turbo

Photo by: DAMD

By: Javier Llorente

Published by: Brian Potter

Feb 10, 2025 at 3:37am ET

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This news brings together two trends that we like to talk about. On the one hand, SUVs that could be bought for a cheaper price on the European market: the Suzuki Jimny. And on the other hand, a cult classic like the Renault 5 Turbo, a city car that has come back to life, although in a 100% electric format.

The link between these two very different worlds? The work of a Japanese designer who specialises in trompe l'oeil. Yes, because even if some people can't see it clearly, what you're looking at is a Suzuki Jimny (Sierra in Japanese). And yes, it is the work of Damd.

Remember that before it was discontinued, the Jimny cost £22,299 and, to our surprise, was inspired by two classic sports cars with rally pedigree, the Lancia Delta Integrale and the Renault 5 Turbo.

Classic sports car? No, Suzuki Jimny

If you're not familiar with the name of the Japanese specialist Damd, you might want to take a look at their website, where you'll find some amazing projects, and not just based on the Jimny. While we are on the subject of small Japanese 4x4s, let us not forget the "homage" transformations of the most famous German SUVs, such as the G-Class, or its transformation into a truly American 4x4, such as the Ford Bronco.

And yes, Damd has also taken the plunge with creations that have transformed Suzuki into luxury models such as the classic Land Rover Defender or high-performance off-roaders such as the sportiest version of the SUV, the Mercedes-AMG G 63.

Gallery: Suzuki Jimny converted into a classic Renault 5 Turbo

Suzuki Jimny converted into classic Renault 5 Turbo

Source: DAMD

But to return to the case of this Jimny that wanted to be a Renault, we have to admit that the kit is the classic one that the Japanese company usually offers, with a complete aesthetic kit that can be bought as a whole or in parts, as well as five OZ Rally Racing wheels mounted with Bridgestone Alenza 001 tyres in size 215/65R16.

The kit includes a grille and headlights similar to those of the small sports car, as well as a distinctive roof spoiler. And yes, we have to admit, the white rally-style wheels look great on the car.

More recent official Suzuki Jimny news:

The 5-door Suzuki Jimny debuts

Suzuki shows hot Swift and Jimny concepts in India

There is also a choice of different paint finishes and some curious and eye-catching side decals, with the inscription 'Non Turbo', playing on the 'heritage' of the Renault 5 and reminding us that there are no mechanical changes under the bonnet.

As usual, the small Jimny Sierra remains faithful to its 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated engine, which produces just 102 PS, coupled to the infallible four-wheel-drive system with low-range transmission. A formula that is complemented by low weight, to the delight of off-road enthusiasts.

Suzuki Jimny for the Tokyo Motor Show 2024

Damd's Suzuki Jimny, converted into classic Lancia Delta and Renault 5s

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As usual, the parts can be shipped to the customer subject to the payment of shipping costs, plus the cost of assembly and painting, plus any applicable taxes.

How much does the kit cost? On the one hand, the complete body kit currently costs 473,000 yen, or about £2,500 at the current exchange rate, while the five OZ Racing wheels (the four functional ones and the spare) cost 600,000 yen, or about £3,200.

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