Reviving the Retro: Crafting a Mini Land Cruiser
Japanese specialists from the atelier Jimmy Land, in collaboration with engineers from Garage Ill, have unveiled a unique styling package for the Suzuki Jimny SUV. The project, dubbed 70YO.70 – a play on words reminiscent of the spelling ‘Toyota’ and simultaneously referencing the Land Cruiser 70 series – transforms the compact Suzuki SUV into a scaled-down yet incredibly detailed replica of the legendary Japanese Land Cruiser 70.
Japanese engineers approached the project thoroughly. The kit includes a new massive hood with characteristic Destroyer badges, auxiliary rearview mirror, retro optics, and classic turn signals. To achieve maximum resemblance to Toyota’s diesel original, a dummy urea tank cap was added to the body, even though the Jimny is exclusively equipped with a gasoline engine.
No Change Under the Hood
The technical part of the vehicle remains unchanged: under the hood is the standard 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 101 hp. Optionally, buyers can enhance the vehicle with a snorkel, suspension lift kit, and new alloy wheels with off-road tires.
Currently, the tuning package is adapted for the three-door version of the Jimny Sierra, but a similar set is not ruled out for the five-door modification.
The project is not a concept – ready-made vehicles in three colors (sand, white, and black) have officially gone on sale in Japan. The cost of the fully modified SUV is 4,250,000 yen (approximately $28,000 or about 2.2 million rubles).
Market Reception and Consumer Appeal
This type of retro adaptation not only generates nostalgia among vehicle enthusiasts but also taps into a growing demand for unique and personalized vehicles. The revival of classic models is becoming a trend, encouraging other manufacturers to explore similar ventures. As for the Suzuki Jimny transformation, it is particularly alluring in the Japanese market, where compact yet rugged vehicles have a strong following due to urban versatility and off-road capabilities.
