The small SUV market is booming in India, with the Tata Punch leading the way. Maruti Suzuki is now set to challenge this dominance with their upcoming mini SUV, the Suzuki Hustler, which has recently been spotted during testing.
Maruti Suzuki’s Entry into the Compact SUV Market
Maruti Suzuki has been a popular brand in India for many years, known for offering a wide range of vehicles that suit the needs of Indian customers. However, they’ve been missing a compact SUV in the 6-7 lakh rupees range. The Hustler is expected to fill this gap and offer a competitive alternative to models like the Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, and Nissan Magnite.
Unique Design and Features of the Hustler
The Suzuki Hustler has a boxy design that makes it stand out from other SUVs on Indian roads. The test vehicle featured a dual-tone paint job, and while the front design is still hidden, its sides and rear are clearly different from other vehicles. Measuring less than four meters in length, it’s expected to be compact yet spacious, although the test model didn’t have any camouflage, leaving questions about its design for the Indian market.
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Competing with Tata Punch
If launched in India, the Hustler will compete directly with the Tata Punch, which is currently very popular. The Punch is equipped with a 1.2-liter engine producing 72.5 PS of power, offering good space and safety features like ABS and six airbags. To compete, the Hustler will need to offer similar or better features.
What the Hustler Offers
Built on the Heartect platform, the Hustler is expected to have two engine options: a 1.0-liter engine with 67 bhp and a 1.2-liter engine with 89 bhp. It might come with a choice of a 5-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The SUV is also likely to offer a 300-liter boot space and safety features such as disc and drum brakes. The expected starting price is around 7 lakh rupees.
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Maruti Suzuki’s Future Plans
Maruti Suzuki is focused on expanding its lineup of utility vehicles, including SUVs and MPVs. With successful models like the Brezza and Grand Vitara, the company is moving away from small hatchbacks toward more versatile vehicles. The Hustler could play a key role in this strategy, offering a fresh option for Indian consumers.
Conclusion
In summary, the Suzuki Hustler represents Maruti Suzuki’s bold step into the growing compact SUV market. With its unique design and competitive features, it has the potential to become a strong competitor in India’s rapidly evolving automotive market. This exciting new addition promises to shake up the market and offer consumers more choices in the compact SUV segment.
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