Used Suzuki Hustler for Sale

Suzuki Hustler Purchase Guide

The Hustler is a crossover launched by Suzuki in 2014. It is a kei car, built to Japan's unique small-vehicle class, and combines the spacious interior of a kei wagon with an SUV-like raised ride height and a round-headlight face. Its ability to handle everything from city driving to outdoor adventures and snowy roads in a single, easy-to-own vehicle won it wide appeal, and it is said to have established the "fun SUV" segment within the kei car market. On the used market, you can choose according to your budget and preferred model year between the first generation, which is widely available and now reasonably priced, and the second generation, which features mild hybrid powertrains across the lineup and more comprehensive safety equipment. The same vehicle is also sold by Mazda as the Flair Crossover.

First-Generation Hustler (MR31S/MR41S / 2014–2019): The First Generation That Crossed a Kei Wagon with an SUV and Established the Kei Crossover Segment

Appeal of the First-Generation Hustler

Combines the cabin of a tall kei wagon with SUV off-road features and a playful look

The first-generation Hustler debuted at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show and went on sale in January 2014. Suzuki positioned it as a new genre of kei passenger car that fused a kei wagon-type passenger car with an SUV. It was developed for people who enjoy outdoor activities and sports, as well as those who often drive on rutted or snowy roads. While keeping the roomy interior of a tall wagon, it combined a raised body, round headlamps, and two-tone body colors. This look appealed to a wide range of age groups, and the Hustler is credited as the model that established the crossover segment within the kei car standard (Japan's unique small-car class with caps on overall length, width, and engine displacement). There is a story often told in the automotive media about how its development began. An owner of the Suzuki Kei, an earlier kei crossover, directly asked then-chairman Osamu Suzuki, "Why did you discontinue the Kei?" and this is said to have started development of what became its successor. The engine is a 660cc inline three-cylinder R06A, available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms. The transmission is mainly a CVT, with a 5-speed manual also offered on the naturally aspirated A and G. Turbo models are CVT only. Drive layouts are FWD and 4WD. 4WD CVT models come with Hill Descent Control, which holds vehicle speed at about 7 km/h on steep downhill slopes, and Grip Control, which helps the car pull away on snowy roads and similar surfaces. Both were firsts for a kei car at launch. For fuel economy, it uses "ENE-CHARGE," which generates electricity from deceleration energy to power electrical components. With the partial update in May 2015, naturally aspirated CVT models (except the A) received "S-ENE-CHARGE," in which a motor assists the engine, in place of ENE-CHARGE, and equipped vehicles were designated MR41S. With the partial update in December 2015, S-ENE-CHARGE was extended to turbo models as well. For safety, Radar Brake Support (collision mitigation braking) and a mis-acceleration mitigation function were available from launch. The core grades were A, G, X, G Turbo, and X Turbo, and special editions were released alongside the partial updates in December 2014 and December 2015. Mazda sold the same vehicle under the name "Flair Crossover."

Drawbacks of the First-Generation Hustler

Condition varies greatly with usage, so inspecting the underbody and transmission is essential

Even the newest examples are 2019 models, so age-related wear is unavoidable. On top of that, because this car was marketed for outdoor use and snowy roads, many examples have been used in harsh conditions. 4WD models used in winter in snowy regions may have rust caused by road salt (de-icing salts spread on roads to prevent freezing). Put the car on a lift and check the floor panels, suspension arm mounting points, muffler, and brake lines. For examples driven on unpaved roads, you should also look for scrapes on the underbody and cracks in the lower bumper. Many used examples are modified with aftermarket lift kits or large-diameter off-road tires. It is wise to confirm before purchase whether the vehicle meets the safety standards and registration requirements of the destination country. Most examples have a CVT. On a test drive, check for vibration when pulling away (judder), a slipping feeling under acceleration, and whining noises, and ask whether there are records of fluid changes. The 5-speed manual is available only on the naturally aspirated A and G; there is no turbo-manual combination. Hill Descent Control and Grip Control are fitted only to 4WD CVT models, so 4WD 5-speed manual models do not have them. ENE-CHARGE combines a lead-acid battery compatible with idle stop and a lithium-ion battery. The lead-acid battery tends to cost more than a standard one, so it is worth checking when it is due for replacement. On S-ENE-CHARGE models, the condition of the belt driving the motor responsible for generation and assist is also an inspection item. Radar Brake Support is designed for low speeds, and its operating range is limited compared with later camera-based systems. Availability depends on grade and model year. Because the body is tall and light, some owners say it is susceptible to crosswinds on highways and that naturally aspirated models tend to run at high engine speeds. For long-distance driving, turbo models tend to be preferred. From the May 2015 update onward, even vehicles from the same period are circulated under different model codes—MR41S for those with S-ENE-CHARGE and MR31S for those without—so when ordering parts, confirm the model code on the vehicle registration certificate.

Rivals of the First-Generation Hustler

Daihatsu Cast Activa

The most obvious contemporary comparison is the Activa version of the Daihatsu Cast. After the first-generation Hustler created the kei crossover market in 2014, Daihatsu launched the Cast in September 2015. The Cast came in three versions—"Style," "Activa," and "Sport"—and the Activa, with its raised ground clearance and SUV-style treatment, was the Hustler's direct competitor. Comparing packaging, the Hustler has a near-boxy shape based on a kei wagon, making it easy to take advantage of headroom and cargo space. The Cast Activa has a rounded, more car-like design, and some praise the quality of its interior and its composed ride. There is a big difference in transmission choices: the Hustler offers a 5-speed manual on naturally aspirated models, while the Cast is CVT only. For those who want to drive a manual, or who are exporting to regions where manuals are easier to maintain, the Hustler offers more options. 4WD equipment is also a deciding factor. Hustler 4WD CVT models come with Hill Descent Control and Grip Control. For use in snowy regions or on muddy unpaved roads on a daily basis, having this equipment is a strength of the Hustler. On the other hand, if you mainly drive on paved roads for city driving and shopping and value quietness and interior ambiance, the Cast Activa is also worth considering. The first-generation Hustler is said to be more plentiful on the used market. A wider choice of model years, grades, and colors, along with easier parts sourcing, are clear advantages for buyers from overseas. Because there are fewer Cast Activas, it is harder to find one that meets your criteria, but if you find a reasonably priced example, it is worth considering alongside the Hustler. Both are built within the same kei car standard, so their exterior dimensions are not very different. When actually choosing, we recommend comparing cargo area shape, how you will use the rear seats, and the combination of drive layout and transmission against your own needs.

First-Generation Hustler Specifications

660cc NA/turbo, CVT and 5MT, FWD and 4WD

Engine: 660cc inline three-cylinder (R06A, naturally aspirated/turbo); S-ENE-CHARGE models available from May 2015 (also on turbo models from December 2015) Transmission: CVT / 5-speed manual (5-speed manual only on naturally aspirated A and G) Drive: FWD / 4WD Suspension (front): MacPherson strut Suspension (rear): Torsion beam (FWD) / I.T.L. (4WD) Length × Width × Height: 3,395 × 1,475 × 1,665 mm Features: A kei crossover combining the cabin space of a kei wagon with the ground clearance of an SUV. 4WD CVT models feature Hill Descent Control and Grip Control, which were firsts for a kei car at launch.

Second-Generation Hustler (2019–) – The second generation, with mild hybrid across the lineup and a squarer, boxier body that emphasizes its rugged, gear-hauler character

Strengths of the Second-Generation Hustler

A second generation that refines its usability as a vehicle for outdoor gear, with a squarer exterior and clever cargo area features

The second-generation Hustler was unveiled in December 2019 and went on sale in January 2020. The first generation debuted in 2014 as a "kei crossover" that blended a roomy kei wagon with an SUV, and it grew into one of Suzuki's core kei passenger cars alongside the Wagon R and Spacia. The second generation carries on that concept and represents the first full redesign in about six years. Within the limits of the kei car class (a Japan-specific small car standard capped at 660cc displacement with maximum body dimensions), it clearly targets owners who load up outdoor or hobby gear and head out. The exterior keeps the round headlights while raising the hood to give the front end more presence, and the upper sides taper in less, strengthening the boxy look. Parked next to the first generation, it is immediately obvious that the outline has become noticeably squarer. There are two powertrains. Naturally aspirated (NA) models use the newly developed R06D engine, while turbo models use the existing R06A engine, and both are paired with a mild hybrid system featuring an integrated starter generator (ISG) with motor function. The transmission is a newly developed CVT (belt-type continuously variable transmission), and buyers can choose between FF (front-wheel drive) and 4WD. Although the R06D's catalog peak power and torque figures are lower than the previous NA engine, it is said to have been developed with priority on everyday drivability and real-world fuel economy. The cargo area has also been reworked. The rear seat slide can now be operated from the cargo area side as well, and an easy-to-wipe, stain-resistant under-floor box sits beneath the cargo floor. Wet gear and muddy shoes can go straight in, making it well suited to carrying gear home from camping, fishing, or skiing. For safety, the "Dual Camera Brake Support" autonomous emergency braking system, which also detects pedestrians at night, and "Rear Brake Support" for reversing are standard equipment. The fact that automatic braking works not only when moving forward but also when backing up in a parking lot reflects how recent this model is.

Weaknesses of the Second-Generation Hustler

CVT is the only transmission, and its recent model year can be an import barrier in some countries

The only transmission is a CVT; a manual transmission (MT) is not available. Anyone who wants to drive a kei car with a manual, or who plans to keep the car long-term in an area with few workshops able to service CVTs, should consider this first. A CVT's condition is said to depend heavily on whether its dedicated fluid has been changed. Check the change history in the maintenance records, and during a test drive, watch for slipping or unusual noises when pulling away and droning under acceleration for peace of mind. The mild hybrid system consists of the engine-mounted ISG and a lithium-ion battery, among other components. It is a different system from a full hybrid that can travel long distances on the motor alone, but it still has more parts than a conventional gasoline car. In case repairs are needed in the destination country, you should research in advance where ISG and battery-related parts can be sourced. Because the ISG is connected to the engine by a belt, cracks or squealing in the accessory belt should also be on the inspection list. NA models use a naturally aspirated kei engine, so they are said to feel underpowered when merging onto highways, climbing long grades, or fully loaded with people and cargo. Many recommend the turbo model for those who frequently use highways or drive in hilly regions. Despite its SUV-like looks, underneath it is a passenger car based on a kei wagon. It is not designed for serious off-roading, so even the 4WD version is not suited to deep ruts or rocky terrain. For 4WD examples used in snowy regions, the surest approach is to put the car on a lift and check the underbody, suspension mounting points, and muffler for rust caused by road salt. The forward autonomous emergency braking system recognizes the road ahead using two cameras mounted at the top of the windshield. For cars whose windshield has been replaced due to stone chips or similar damage, it is reassuring to ask the dealer whether the camera calibration (aiming) was performed correctly. Its recent model year is also a limitation. Since these cars were produced from 2020 onward, they cannot be imported for the time being into countries that restrict imports based on age since manufacture, such as the United States' 25-year rule. Check your country's import regulations first before adding it to your list of candidates.

Rivals of the Second-Generation Hustler

Daihatsu Taft

The easiest car to compare with the second-generation Hustler is the Daihatsu Taft. It is a kei crossover that debuted at almost the same time, and it overlaps with the Hustler in offering SUV-style looks and outdoor-oriented practicality within kei car limits. Both offer NA and turbo engines, FF and 4WD, and a CVT transmission. The differences lie in design and interior philosophy. The Hustler keeps a friendly look with its round headlights. The Taft, by contrast, has square lights and a straight-lined body for a more rugged impression. Every Taft comes with the "Sky Feel Top" glass roof, with the airy feel for front occupants as a major selling point. The Hustler, on the other hand, focuses on features that make it easy to adapt the rear seats and cargo area to the situation, such as a rear seat slide operable from the cargo area and a stain-resistant under-floor box. The Taft is often described as clearly dividing the front seats as space for people and the rear seats and cargo area as space for luggage, and it is said to suit two people riding up front with gear loaded in the back. For those who often carry four people, or who want to shift the rear seat position depending on the number of passengers and amount of luggage, the Hustler is rated as easier to use. As a rough guide, choose the Taft if you value an open, sunlit cabin and a tough look, and the Hustler if you value interior flexibility and a friendly design. In terms of driving, both share the same tendency: the NA versions are suited to city driving, while the turbo is the choice if you often drive on highways or mountain roads. On the used market, the Hustler has been a popular model since the first generation, and many second-generation cars are in circulation in Japan. By comparison, the Taft is seen as having a more limited selection. If you want to narrow down color, equipment, and drivetrain in detail, the Hustler is said to make finding candidates easier. Both are recent models, and their prices remain relatively high among kei cars in the same class. Deciding in advance, according to your budget, how flexible you can be on mileage and equipment will make your search more efficient.

Second-Generation Hustler Specifications

R06D NA and R06A turbo, CVT, and FF/4WD

Engine: Inline 3-cylinder R06D (naturally aspirated) / R06A (turbo), mild hybrid with ISG on all models Transmission: CVT Drivetrain: FF (front-wheel drive) / 4WD Features: Mild hybrid across the lineup. The rear seat slide can also be operated from the cargo area, and there is a stain-resistant luggage under-box beneath the cargo floor. Dual Camera Brake Support and Rear Brake Support are standard.