The internet is awash with rumours that the mighty Suzuki Jimny could soon be taken off sale in Europe, another casualty of EU emissions regulations that say a manufacturer must soon achieve a ‘fleet average’ of 95g/km of CO2 (meaning it can sell cars that emit more than that, but will have to offset them with enough low- and zero-emission hybrids and EVs to get the company-wide average down).

Suzuki says the Jimny, which at best emits 154g/km of CO2, “will remain on sale in the UK in very limited numbers throughout 2020”, but that “the higher CO2 emissions levels of this model would adversely affect its whole range CO2 average in Europe after 2020”, meaning the little 4x4 could well be withdrawn from sale when the new regulations come into force properly in 2021.

Suzuki doesn’t have a pure-electric car in its line-up, nor a plug-in hybrid, both of which would help it drastically reduce its average CO2 emissions and dodge punitive fines, however the Swift Sport, Vitara and S-Cross will soon come with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system as standard.

Despite rumours that Suzuki may one day sell the Jimny as an ‘N1’ commercial vehicle to skirt emissions regulations (this would require the removal of the largely useless rear seats, among other changes), we’d suggest heading down to your local dealer right this minute, throwing some money at them and keeping your fingers crossed for an allocation.

Happily, if you’ve already ordered a Jimny and are expecting it this year, Suzuki confirms it “will make every effort to ensure delivery to its customers who have already placed an order”.