- capitalizing on the success of the new jimny suv, suzuki is showing the smaller hustler concept at the tokyo auto show.
- this boxy bruiser is based on the company's kei-car platform, so don't get any off-roading ideas.
- its tiny cabin can transform to haul camping gear, snowboards, and all sorts of outdoor-adventure gear.
american car buyers love small suvs, but japanese car buyers love even smaller ones. suzuki's new hustler concept debuted at the tokyo auto show with a rugged appearance that makes it look like the jimny's even littler brother. it's based on the company's kei-car platform but has all the boxy good looks of a genuine off-roader.
not much information is available, but we'd imagine the hustler is powered by a small 660-cc gasoline engine, which is the standard for the kei-car class. there's no word on whether or not the hustler concept is all-wheel drive. it does look production-ready, though, so suzuki could very well be getting it ready to hit japanese roads pretty soon.
"if you have this car, you can play more," according to suzuki's press release. "with this car, you will have more fun every day." we believe it. the interior is small but looks well equipped for outdoor adventures with folding seats to make room for items such as snowboards, coolers, or camping equipment.
the orange-colored hustler shown at the auto show has stylish orange and gray camo-inspired-print floor mats that would be perfect for deer-hunting season. to help clean up after outdoor adventures, the hustler's designers went with easier-to-clean plastic flooring rather than carpet, and the rear seatbacks are covered in wipeable vinyl.
the hustler's dashboard design is slightly reminiscent of the only slightly larger jeep renegade, with brightly colored borders around the gauges and infotainment display. from the looks of things, though, rear-seat passenger space is limited, so the hustler is best for solo adventures or outings with only one friend.