The Suzuki Jimny dominates the small SUV market with an iron fist. But, what other 4×4 with restrained dimensions and three-door bodywork dispute the leadership of the Suzuki model? Find out what the best-selling small 4x4s have been in 2021 worldwide.
The supply of small SUVs has been considerably reduced for quite some time. It has reached such a point that this category has become very elitist. But, despite the changes in which the 4×4 vehicle segment is immersed, there are still models that remain clear benchmarks. The Suzuki Jimny continues to dominate the small SUV market with an iron fist. But, what other models dispute its leadership? Let’s go into detail.
In the convulsive year 2021 marked by the stock crisis in dealerships, the sales of small three-door body SUVs reached 151,000 units worldwide. A volume of units sold that, compared to that registered in 2020, translates into strong growth of 24%. However, we must bear in mind that in that year the automobile sector was particularly affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Suzuki Jimny, the best-selling small 4×4 in 2021 globally
The Suzuki Jimny was by far the best-selling small 4×4 globally in 2021. Suzuki’s pocket SUV accumulated 93,000 units, which is 10% more than in the previous year. At a considerable distance, in second position with 33,000 units sold, is the Mahindra Thar. A model that is being an unprecedented sales success in India.
Mahindra’s new generation off-roader is doing really well. Its demand has skyrocketed to such an extent that the brand has been forced to increase its production volume on several occasions. And closing the podium, in third place, we have the fireproof Lada Nivaa model also known by the names 4×4 and Taiga.
The Lada model faces an uncertain future. Even more so when its new generation, scheduled for 2024, has been cancelled. However, it is true that the Niva range has faced very important challenges over the years and has been able to overcome them by far.
Suzuki Jimny video test. Suzuki’s pocket SUV is a global hit
Small SUV sales in 2021 worldwide
Outside the podium we have models little known in this part of the world. They are about the Trolley T4 and of Force Gurkha respectively.
In Europe these are not good times for SUVs. The process of transition to electric mobility and the restrictive emission regulations have forced manufacturers to rethink their presence in this category. The clearest example we have with the Jimny. Suzuki was forced to withdraw it to instead offer the Jimny Pro, a commercial vehicle type variant.
Font: car industry analysis