Suzuki is drawing a line in the sand when it comes to sharing two of its most legendary nameplates, the Jimny and Swift, with partner Toyota. Despite a successful badge-engineering collaboration on vehicles like the RAV4 and Across in Europe, Suzuki feels these iconic models are too close to the heart of their brand DNA.
Toyota had envisioned selling its own version of the rugged Jimny as a more affordable 4×4 option compared to its existing SUV lineup. And the Swift’s enduring hatchback appeal made it an enticing addition to Toyota’s portfolio. But Suzuki has firmly rebuffed these requests, even as Jimny sales decline, unwilling to risk diluting these core models just for volume gains.