The Maruti Suzuki Hustler, launched on April 18, 2025, is making waves as India’s most affordable SUV, starting at just ₹5 lakh (ex-showroom). With a claimed mileage of up to 35 kmpl and a quirky, compact design, it’s tailored for urban commuters, young families, and first-time buyers. This review explores its features, price, and appeal, comparing it to the Tata Nano EV, in a concise 500-600 words.
Why It’s a Game-Changer
The Hustler, a mini-SUV inspired by Japan’s Kei car segment, combines bold styling with practicality. Its boxy design, high ground clearance (185mm), and upright stance feature LED headlights, a signature grille, and 15-inch alloy wheels, per Udaipur Kiran. Available in vibrant colors, it rivals the Tata Nano EV’s modern LED-equipped look. Social media on X praises its “cute yet rugged” vibe, appealing to buyers seeking an SUV at a hatchback price. Unlike the Nano EV, an electric hatchback with a 250-315 km range, the Hustler is a petrol/CNG-powered SUV, offering car-like comfort and superior mileage for budget-conscious drivers.
Key Features and Performance
The Hustler is powered by a 1.2L DualJet petrol engine (89 hp, 113 Nm), paired with a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic, delivering 22-35 kmpl (ARAI: ~30 kmpl petrol, 32-35 km/kg CNG), per hindustanbeachretreat.in. A mild hybrid system boosts efficiency, making it cheaper to run (~₹1.7-2/km at ₹80/L petrol) than the Nano EV (~₹1-1.5/km at ₹7/kWh). A 660cc engine (52-64 hp) is rumored for lower trims, but the 1.2L suits India’s needs, per timesbull.com. Its lightweight Heartect platform (~850 kg) and tuned suspension ensure agile handling in city traffic, though highway stability is average.
The interior is practical, with a tall roofline, 60:40 split rear seats, and a 200-250L boot, outpacing the Nano EV’s 110-350L. A 9-inch touchscreen (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), digital dashboard, auto climate control, and push-button start add modernity. Safety includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and optional rearview camera or hill-hold assist (top trims), per vidyadevi.co.in. While less advanced than the Nano EV’s 360-degree camera and airbags, it’s robust for its class.
Price and Variants
The Hustler starts at ₹5 lakh (ex-showroom), with top trims at ~₹8.99 lakh (on-road ~₹5.5-10 lakh, Delhi), per udaipurkiran.in. Variants include:
- Base (Manual): ₹5 lakh
- Mid (CNG/Manual): ~₹6.49 lakh
- Top (CVT): ~₹8.99 lakh
EMIs for a ₹5.5 lakh loan (₹1 lakh down, 9% interest, 5 years) start at ~₹10,500/month, per CarDekho calculators. The Nano EV’s ₹4.75-7 lakh price (on-road ~₹5.37-8.13 lakh, EMIs ~₹10,500/month) is similar, but its electric powertrain appeals to EV enthusiasts. The Yamaha MT 15 V2 (~₹1.99-2.06 lakh on-road) is cheaper but a motorcycle, not a family SUV.
Comparison to Tata Nano EV
The Nano EV’s 19-24 kWh battery (250-315 km range), 35-45 hp motor, and upscale interior (7-10-inch touchscreen, airbags) suit solo commuters or small families. Its compact size (~3.16m) and ~₹1-1.5/km cost are eco-friendly, but charging infrastructure limits rural appeal. The Hustler’s 35 kmpl mileage, larger cabin, and petrol/CNG options make it more versatile for city and rural use, with Maruti’s vast service network as a bonus, per rushlane.com. The Nano EV’s unconfirmed September 2025 launch adds uncertainty, while the Hustler is available now.
Verdict
At ₹5-8.99 lakh, the Maruti Suzuki Hustler delivers 22-35 kmpl mileage, bold styling, and features like a 9-inch touchscreen and airbags, redefining the budget SUV segment. Compared to the Tata Nano EV, it offers better fuel efficiency and family-friendly space, making it ideal for urban and rural buyers. Bookings are open, with deliveries from June 2025, per hindustanbeachretreat.in. Visit Maruti dealers or CarDekho for test drives and financing options to own India’s first budget SUV