It might sound far-fetched, but what if a humble newspaper report helped launch a car company—and gave birth to one of the most iconic compact off-roaders in the world? What if that car was not even Japanese to begin with, but had its roots in Pakistan? And what if the vehicle that is often underestimated today has, in fact, been sold in millions worldwide?
Welcome to the unlikely origin story of the Suzuki Jimny—a vehicle admired globally for its rugged charm, off-road capability, and iconic boxy silhouette. But before it became the Jimny we know today, this car had another name, another shape, and an origin you likely never expected.
Before the Jimny: The Rise and Fall of Hope Motors
The story begins in 1952 with the founding of Hope Motors, a small Japanese car company that manufactured three-wheeled utility vehicles. These were slightly bigger than motorcycles, with a design and function somewhat similar to the autorickshaws seen throughout South Asia.
Hope Motors’ vehicles were intended for small businesses and cargo transport, filling a niche in the post-war Japanese economy. But as the automotive industry evolved, larger manufacturers like Mazda and Daihatsu began to dominate the market with more advanced and reliable vehicles. By 1965, Hope Motors could no longer keep up. Production slowed, and the company seemed headed for closure.
A Last-Ditch Effort: The Birth of the Hope Star ON 360
In a final attempt to stay afloat, Hope Motors decided to create something new—a four-wheel-drive vehicle that could cater to both rural consumers and light industrial users. This was a bold decision, considering the company’s dwindling resources. Nevertheless, in 1967, Hope Motors unveiled a compact 4WD vehicle known as the Hope Star ON 4WD or Hope Star ON 360.
The ON 360 was powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 359cc engine and had a lightweight, minimalist design. It was tiny but functional—a no-frills vehicle meant for rugged terrain. It was, in many ways, a pioneer of the compact off-road segment long before that idea became mainstream.
From Pakistan to Japan: A Global Shift
Here’s where the story takes an unexpected turn. Though the Hope Star ON 360 was designed and prototyped in Japan, some of its early production and parts manufacturing reportedly took place in Pakistan. In fact, this small 4WD vehicle is believed by many enthusiasts to be one of the first “Jeeps” manufactured in Pakistan. That makes it a part of both Japanese and South Asian automotive history—a shared legacy largely forgotten today.
Unfortunately, Hope Motors was unable to continue producing the ON 360 in large numbers. Limited resources, poor distribution, and stiff competition meant the vehicle never took off commercially. But its potential hadn’t gone unnoticed.
Enter Suzuki: The Jimny is Born
In 1968, Suzuki acquired the rights to the Hope Star ON 360, seeing the opportunity to develop a unique four-wheel-drive vehicle. Suzuki, known primarily at the time for its motorcycles and small cars, recognized that the compact off-road market was untapped.
They took the basic frame of the ON 360 and re-engineered it, refining the mechanics, improving the suspension, and giving it a more robust drivetrain. In 1970, Suzuki released the LJ10—the first true Suzuki Jimny. It kept the small dimensions and lightweight spirit of the original, but was now a complete Suzuki product.
The LJ10 featured a 359cc two-stroke engine, selectable four-wheel drive, and a utilitarian design that made it perfect for narrow roads, mountains, and rural regions. Despite its size, the Jimny was capable, rugged, and affordable—qualities that made it an instant hit in Japan and eventually across Asia, Australia, and South America.
The Evolution of the Jimny
Over the decades, the Suzuki Jimny evolved through several generations:
- LJ10/LJ20 (1970s): The earliest versions, closely based on the ON 360, simple and highly compact.
- Jimny 100 and 130 (1980s): Larger, more powerful, and better-suited for exports, including Europe and Australia.
- Jimny JA series (1990s): Introduced coil-spring suspension for better comfort and handling.
- Jimny Sierra (2000s–2010s): Stylish, reliable, and still true to its off-road roots.
- Fourth Generation (2018–present): A retro-modern boxy design with real off-road hardware, including low-range 4WD, ladder frame, and solid axles front and rear.
What’s remarkable is that through all these generations, the Jimny has never lost its character. It remains one of the few true off-road vehicles in a compact form—something very few manufacturers dare to make anymore.
The Jimny Today: Global Icon, Cult Classic
Today, the Suzuki Jimny is celebrated worldwide. It has earned cult status in places as diverse as Brazil, India, Europe, and Australia. Its rugged build, affordability, and go-anywhere attitude have made it a favorite among adventurers, farmers, and urban drivers alike.
Ironically, many still underestimate the Jimny. Its size leads some to believe it’s just a “cute little SUV.” But those who know its capability respect it deeply. It’s not uncommon to see Jimnys navigating terrain that would challenge far more expensive and sophisticated vehicles.
With millions of units sold across generations, the Jimny is no longer a niche product—it’s a global symbol of simplicity, toughness, and charm.
A Legacy That Deserves Recognition
Very few people know that the roots of the Jimny lie in a small company’s desperate attempt to survive. Fewer still know that it has connections to Pakistan. The story of Hope Motors and the ON 360 is one of resilience, innovation, and unexpected legacy. It’s a reminder that greatness can come from the most modest of beginnings.
So the next time you see a Suzuki Jimny parked on a city street or climbing a steep trail, take a moment to appreciate its incredible journey—from the workshops of Hope Motors, to a little-known production link in Pakistan, to a global bestseller loved by millions.
The Jimny isn’t just a car. It’s a survivor. It’s a pioneer. And most importantly, it’s a piece of forgotten history that deserves to be remembered.
Conclusion: A Hope That Lived On
Hope Motors may no longer exist, but its vision lives on every time a Jimny revs its engine. From the dusty roads of Pakistan to the alpine trails of Europe, the spirit of the Hope Star ON 360 continues to inspire. It may have started as a last-ditch effort by a dying company, but it became one of the most beloved and enduring vehicles the world has ever seen.
