Maruti Suzuki has stunned the Indian automobile market by planning to launch the Maruti Hustler at a price that’s almost equivalent to an auto-rickshaw. Yes, you heard that right. With an expected starting price of around ₹4 lakh, the Hustler is set to be the most affordable and practical urban car for millions of Indian families and small business owners.
Inspired by the Suzuki Hustler from Japan, this compact micro-SUV promises to bring together SUV styling, hatchback efficiency, and kei car practicality in one revolutionary package.
What is the Maruti Hustler?
The Maruti Hustler is a small, boxy, and stylish vehicle originally designed for Japanese urban roads. In India, it is expected to be slightly redesigned and localized to suit local conditions, emission norms, and pricing requirements. This vehicle combines the essence of a city car with SUV-like toughness, making it ideal for crowded city streets, narrow rural roads, and high-mileage commutes.
Standout Exterior Design – Mini SUV Vibes
Despite its compact dimensions, the Maruti Hustler delivers serious road presence with its bold and rugged design. It looks like a mini SUV and will appeal to buyers looking for something tougher than a typical hatchback.
Design Highlights:
- Boxy upright design with high roofline
- Round LED headlamps with modern detailing
- Dual-tone paint options with contrast roof
- Thick body cladding and squared-off wheel arches
- Roof rails and tall-boy stance
- 14-inch steel or alloy wheels (depending on variant)
It’s quirky, fun, and uniquely practical — a car that looks premium and youthful without being expensive.
Interior – Space-Rich Cabin in a Small Footprint
Step inside the Hustler, and you’re welcomed by a cleverly designed cabin that maximizes every inch of available space. Thanks to its tall-boy design, even taller passengers can sit comfortably, while boot space remains ample for city duties or weekend trips.
Expected Interior Features:
- Dual-tone dashboard with colored accents
- Touchscreen infotainment system (in top trims)
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital MID with fuel economy display
- Rear seat folding for extended cargo space
- AC with heater and manual or auto climate control
- Power windows, power steering, central locking
The wide-opening doors and high seating position make it easy to get in and out — especially for elderly passengers or families with kids.
Engine, Mileage & Transmission
In India, the Maruti Hustler is expected to use the tried-and-tested 1.0L K10C petrol engine, known for its peppy performance and excellent fuel efficiency. A CNG version may follow, considering the high demand for cleaner, cheaper alternatives.
| Engine Type | Specs |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.0L 3-cylinder K10C petrol |
| Power Output | ~67 PS |
| Torque | ~89 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual / 5-speed AMT |
| Fuel Efficiency | 22–25 km/l (Petrol) / 35+ km/kg (CNG expected) |
Thanks to its lightweight body and small displacement engine, the Hustler will be one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its segment.
Variants and Pricing – A True Budget Game Changer
The biggest shocker is the price. Maruti is expected to launch the Hustler at a starting price close to ₹4 lakh, which puts it in direct competition with auto-rickshaws and entry-level two-wheelers in terms of affordability.
Expected Price Range (Ex-showroom):
| Variant | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| Hustler LXi | ₹3.99 Lakh |
| Hustler VXi | ₹4.45 Lakh |
| Hustler VXi+ AMT | ₹4.95 Lakh |
| Hustler CNG (Expected) | ₹5.25 Lakh |
At this pricing, the Hustler becomes an accessible 4-wheeler option for millions who are currently using two-wheelers or autos.
Features vs. Competition
At this ultra-low price point, the Hustler will go head-to-head with:
| Model | Price | Mileage | USP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maruti Hustler | ₹4–5.5 Lakh | 22–25 km/l | SUV style + fuel efficiency |
| Maruti Alto K10 | ₹3.99–5.96 Lakh | 24 km/l | Proven city car |
| Renault Kwid | ₹4.70–6.45 Lakh | 22 km/l | Stylish & feature-loaded |
| Bajaj Qute (RE60) | ₹3.60 Lakh | 35 km/l | Quadricycle, cheaper alternative |
The Hustler clearly stands out with its SUV-inspired design, better practicality, and modern features — all at a similar or lower cost.
Who Should Buy the Maruti Hustler?
The Hustler is aimed at:
- First-time car buyers looking to upgrade from a scooter or motorcycle
- Auto-rickshaw owners wanting a better, more comfortable upgrade
- Students and single professionals needing a stylish, fuel-efficient city car
- Small families in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
- Fleet and ride-sharing businesses seeking low-cost maintenance
If you’re someone who wants the comfort and safety of a car at a two-wheeler budget, the Maruti Hustler is the best thing to happen in years.
Ashish Rai is a professional automotive writer with four years of experience crafting reviews, features, and technical guides. Passionate about vehicles, he translates complex engineering concepts into engaging content. Covering market trends, EV developments, and driving experiences, Ashish delivers insightful, reader-friendly articles that ignite automotive enthusiasm worldwide consistently with integrity.
