© Yomper

West Yorkshire firm Yomper 4×4 is the latest to offer a range of Suzuki Jimny pickup conversions, including one model with a bespoke body shell and chassis.

A quick internet search unearths at least four other Jimny modifiers, with the welter of options reflecting the surge in demand, from farmers, gamekeepers and greenlaners, for something that falls appealingly between a farm UTV and pickup.

The Yomper was developed by Giles Walker, whose Samson Engineering business, in Elland, supplies and manufactures custom commercial trailers and concrete mixers.

See also: On test: Suzuki Jimny returns as a commercial vehicle

“You simply can’t buy an inexpensive go-anywhere working vehicle anymore, so I decided now was a good time to make one,” he says.

“The natural choice for the base vehicle was the Suzuki Jimny – cheap, affordable and reliable, yet small enough to go where other large and often clumsy off-roaders can’t. Parts are readily available and inexpensive, so that had to be a point of consideration.”

All five Yomper models start as a stripped-down Jimny, with its standard 1.3-litre engine given a thorough service.

From there, the bodyshell is converted into a chassis cab with a strengthened bulkhead, and a bespoke alloy body is fitted.

Options include a chassis extension to form a long-wheelbase version of the Yomper Commercial, plus a tipping bed with 500kg payload. These are JMV275C models – essentially a Yomper in its working clothes.

Those in the market for something less workaday can opt for the posher Bergan, which is inspired by the Subaru MV “Brat” pickup – best described as a utility coupe – and has a fully integrated load bed and bodywork.

“There are other companies that have done Jimny pickup conversions, but none have gone as far as to create a bespoke body and chassis like that of the Yomper,” says Mr Walker. “It uses the Suzuki running gear and front bodywork more as components to create a full vehicle than as a basis for conversion.”

In all, the range comprises the Commercial 275, Bergan 225 and 275, Field-Star 225 and Rustler 225 models.

Price depends on spec, but it is possible to have a high-mileage Yomper from as little as £12,500 (excluding vat).

The hardest part is tracking down a donor vehicle – such has been the demand for Jimnys that their owners have found themselves in the unusual position of owning a relatively new vehicle that is appreciating in value.

© Yomper