Back in the 90s, the GMC Typhoon earned its sleeper status by squeezing a turbocharged V6 producing 280 PS into a compact, two-door SUV.

Now, a Japanese tuner is paying tribute to the American performance icon, albeit in a much smaller and considerably less powerful package.

Look closely, as this retro-inspired build is actually a 5-door Suzuki Jimny transformed into a miniature tribute to one of the coolest American performance SUVs of the 1990s. 

Dubbed the “Square Eyes x Low Down,” the custom Jimny is a collaboration between Japanese tuner C.L.Link and fashion designer Ryo Ishikawa.

The project draws inspiration from the boxy styling of the early ’90s American SUV's, giving the pint-sized off-roader a distinctly GMC Typhoon-inspired makeover.

The transformation starts up front, with square headlights, auxiliary driving lamps, and a GMC-inspired grille and bumper. Amber US-spec clearance lights, smoked taillights, and a red UMC grille emblem mimicking GMC’s lettering further emphasize the retro American SUV aesthetic.

16-inch C.L.Link UnionRim TX chrome wheels, styled to resemble classic chrome steelies, complement the exterior treatment.

Suspension upgrades include Eibach lowering springs and Bilstein shock absorbers, dropping the Jimny’s ride height by about an inch. The result is a tighter fender gap and a more street-focused stance that stays true to the original GMC Typhoon’s on-road performance character.

The makeover continues inside, where Recaro Classic LS front seats take center stage. The rear seats have also been reupholstered to match, featuring leather and Alcantara inserts complemented by contrasting white stitching for a cohesive, premium finish.

Like the GMC Typhoon, the Jimny does away with the rear-mounted spare tire in favor of a color-matched, spare delete flat panel, complete with the UMC badge. A rear-mounted spare wheel remains available as an option.

According to C.L.Link, the project is a modern interpretation of American SUVs from the early 1990s. While the styling strongly evokes the GMC Typhoon, the Jimny retains its original mechanical setup, keeping things familiar, dependable, and practical.

The Square Eyes x Low Down will make its public debut at Tokyo Auto Salon 2027, scheduled for January 15 to 17, with C.L.Link already accepting orders ahead of the event.

While this Jimny won't deliver the performance of the original Typhoon, its charming retro makeover proves that a great automotive tribute doesn't always need the horsepower to match.