Maruti Suzuki Hustler: In a sea of cookie-cutter hatchbacks and subcompact SUVs, the Maruti Suzuki Hustler dares to be its own thing.
Taking cues from its Japanese Kei car origins, the Hustler features a boxy-yet-cute design, personality and a surprising amount of practicality for in-town driving. It isn’t your run-of-the-mill Maruti – and that’s what makes it interesting.
Let’s try to find out what goes to make the Hustler a hit, and if something this off the wall as a mini crossover can settle down to finding takers in India.
Design: Boxy Blunt and Full of Character
First impressions? The Hustler makes no effort to hide. It’s sporting a tall-boy stance, round headlamps, flat roofline and chunky cladding and has that old-school S.U.V.
vibe that is, A, cute (at least in this miniaturized, playful incarnation) and, B, in complete contrast to what a Tesla (which shall remain nameless) can offer.
It’s one of those rare cars that is the way it is, and if that isn’t to your liking, you should probably shop for something else.
You can tell straight away Suzuki has designed this for folk who want something for the city that’s small, but not smally inside, and most certainly not small-minded in terms of headroom and style. It has a certain youthful charm that is attractive to both the young and the young at heart.
Two-tone paint schemes, fun color options and so many personalized elements lend it a boutique vibe you don’t often find in affordable cars.
Cabin: Small Outside, Roomy Inside It was small outside but we found it somewhat larger than we had expected once on board.
And hop in, and the Hustler really starts to shine. Despite its small dimensions the cabin is upright, and there is space to spare.
The high roofline ensures ample headroom, and the seating positions are placed to allow for plenty of legroom as well. It’s not claustrophobic — even for those who are tall.
The layout of the dash is a blend of simple and funky and everything is neatly laid out, with the air-con vents, contrasting trim and infotainment system being standouts.
Storage space is ample, and the flat floor in the rear makes the task of seating three across a bit easier than it is in typical small cars.
The boot is modest not vast but clever folding rear seats allow you to carry longer, larger items when necessary. It’s made with city practicality in mind, and it shows.
Performance: Peppy Enough for the Urban Jungle So it won’t thrill anyone with its pace, but it has enough power and balance to handle typical city traffic.
Suzuki’s time-tested 1.0L petrol engine is expected under the hood of the Hustler, perhaps with some mild hybrid tech to give it better fuel efficiency.
It’s not going to win any land-speed records, but power delivery is seamless and zippy for your daily driving needs. Great for maneuvering through traffic or crowded streets.
Coupled to either a five-speed manual or an optional AMT/CVT transmission, the Hustler offers an easy, economical drive. Don’t expect blazing pickup, but for around-town commuting and the occasional stretch of freeway, it’s plenty.
Pros: What’s Working Well for the Hustler
Distinctive Styling: There’s nothing else like it on Indian roads. It’s quirky in the best way.
Small Footprint: Easy to park, easy to waft—designed for urban commotion.
Large and Airy Cabin: The massive size translates inside, but it doesn’t feel cramped.
Fuel efficient engine: Amazing mileage and hassle free maintenance, all the courtesy of Maruti’s engineering.
Tall Seating Position: You get that mini-SUV driving position with a great view up front.
Cons: What It Won’t Do
Niche Appeal: Not everyone will be a fan of its daring design.
Highway overtakes require patience because of limited highway power: Best suited for city drives.
No Diesel Option: May not thrill traditionalists who pine for oodles of torque.
Boot Space Could Be More: Not the best option for long family trips with lots of luggage.
Anticipated Price Premium: Styling and content could lift price above that of usual hatchbacks.
Maruti Suzuki Hustler: Final Thoughts Funky, Functional, and Freaking Flair
Maruti Suzuki Hustler i;s not pretending to be other car on the road. It’s like carving out its own space somewhere between a tall-boy hatch and a micro-S.U.V. To city folk who enjoy standing out with a car that has character, the Hustler is a godsend.
It’s not going to be for everyone — but for those who simply “get” it, this could be love at first drive. Practical, fun and purposeful, the Hustler might just be about to rewrite what small car/big city combo really is.