Maruti Suzuki Hustler: These are interesting times in the Indian automotive market as Maruti Suzuki is gearing up to add the lovable odd-ball Hustler to its line-up.
The arrival of the Hustler underpins a strategic shift by India’s largest carmaker to tap in to the growing premium micro-SUV segment as the model now joins the likes of the S-Presso, which sits much lower down the pecking order in terms of size and in a different part of the market to where the S-Cross competes.
This unique car combines vintage-inspired boxiness with modern conveniences, establishing itself as a personal choice instead of just a practical mode of transport.
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Maruti Suzuki Hustler Design Philosophy: Because It Is Why Not?
The Hustler’s bold, boxy bodywork makes heavy references to classic off-roaders, with a visual flair all its own that still manages to set the vehicle apart from the considerably growing number of boxy off-roaders hitting the scene.
The front view is characterised by a characteristic grille with circular LED headlamps positioned to create a “face” on the road that stands out from the crowd.
Stylish squared wheel arches give the micro-SUV a purposeful stance and offer space for 16-inch alloy wheels, while contrasting roof line attracts younger customers who want to express themselves.
In contrast to most cars which try to hide their boxy silhouette, the Hustler embraces it and makes compromises part of its signature design.
The vertical rear-end provides for a good amount of interior space and makes it look like nothing else out there in the Indian market.
It’s this design bravery that has worked wonders in Japan where the Hustler – despite its deviation from the mainstream automotive styling trend – is doing marvellously.
What sets the Indian-spec Hustler apart from the Japanese version is the high-quality finish of these design inclusions.
Chrome trim, LED lights all around, and better grade exterior materials transform it into more than a utilitarian vehicle.
The expanded color range on the new and exciting FIAT 500 Abarth now includes striking two-tone alternatives that highlight the cheeky characteristics of the car, making a bold statement in India’s rapidly growing automotive market.
Cabin -It’s small but it’s nice -A personal amenity kit -A pillow that doesn’t look like a middle school gym mat.
Climb into the Hustler and its clever use of space quickly comes to light. Inside, the cabin feels positively cavernous despite the small size, due in part to the tall roofline, generously sized windows and clever packaging.
The high-set seating position allows a good view out while the flat floor in the rear of the cabin gives the feeling of space for back seat passengers.
The interior reflects the exterior in the shapes of furniture, in the play of contrasting colors, and especially in the design of the textures.
Classic gauges meet information age: The instrument cluster combines analog dials for the tach and speedo with a multifunctional display for everything else.
At the center of the dashboard is a floating touch-screen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connectivity – just what the customer segment is looking for in terms of the technology quotient.
Quality of materials is a meaningful step up for the segment, featuring soft-touch surfaces in key places, and either high-quality fabric or optional leatherette upholstery.
And pockets are thoughtful, there’s several pockets for phones, bottles and personal things.
These practical details mean that the stylish interior won’t compromise on the practicality that daily life needs.
In a digital connected society, we hairs 3 Technology The integration of the latest technology Technology Integration: Today”s convenience should be able to update files and access new content immediately.
Considering the high tech savvy of its intended buyers, Maruti Suzuki has made big car features available to the Hustler that even more costlier and larger cars don’t offer yet! Above is the Maruti’s SmartPlay Studio touchscreen system which offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity and also features Maruti’s connected car technology which gives features like remote vehicle status and control via a dedicated smartphone application.
The premium audio system is exceptional despite the cabin’s relatively small size, and there are multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad to meet the charging needs of today’s device-reliant consumers.
Automatic climate control guarantees comfort inside no matter what the weather is like outside while the 360-degree camera system is—unusually—standard, and makes parking in urban spaces a whole lot simpler.
Safety tech is well represented, with the Hustler getting six airbags, ESC, hill-hold assist and advanced driver assistance technologies on higher-spec models.
This full suite of safety technologies reflects increased consumer consciousness and expectations of safety on the road, and positions the Hustler as an innovative choice in its class.
On Road Performance: City agility with the versatility of the weekend
The Indian version of the Hustler will be powered by Maruti’s tried-and-true 1.2-liter ‘K-series’ engine that has been retuned to provide with better low-end torque, enough for city runs as well as occasional highway drives.
The five-speed manual transmission operates smoother and dons better gears than the AMT, which means you will be spoilt for better acceleration and lesser road noise.
The Hustler might not be marketed as a hardcore off-roader, but its tall stance, short overhangs and all grip system (all-grip traction control) will be putting us at ease on the trails and slippery roads.
This flexibility extends the car’s allure beyond urban use and provides support for weekend leisure pursuits that fit the lifestyle of QASHQAI.
The suspension set-up treads a fine line between ride comfort and handing, and the slightly stiffer set-up than other Maruti cars, gives better driving experience without compromising on occupant comfort.
Hustler’s compact size and small turning radius make it surprisingly nimble in tight quarters this is a big asset in the crowded cities of India.
Maruti Suzuki Hustler Market Positioning and Prospective Effects
This is where life gets interesting because the Hustler is entering a market in India where the consumer’s notion of value is transitioning to something that may go beyond being low cost per se, to value as drift and character.
Sitting above the company’s current subcompact series of SUVs, but below the more fashion-conscious Nexa branded models, the Hustler is aimed at urban trendies in search of a fashion statement that doesn’t compromise practicality.
Industry analysts expect the Hustler to carve a niche in the quickly growing small SUV space, drawing buyers who consider conventional designs too tame yet aren’t willing to give up the reliability and service-network benefits that come with Maruti Suzuki branding.
The distinctive look of the car is expected to strike a chord with a younger audience who wants to make a statement when making automotive decisions as a consumer.
And the launch of the Hustler is a strong move by Maruti– moving away from its traditional bread-and-butter role of being a practical, value-for-money brand, and into something that’s slightly more emotional.
With the introduction of this legendary Japan model to India with India specific modifications, the company proves that they are open to trying out niche products and establishing its footprints in lifestyle based segments.
