Suzuki Hustler Gets A Little Tougher, Wilder

Suzuki, as you might have heard, no longer sells passenger cars in the North American market. Which is a bit of a shame, because the Japanese automaker has long been – and still remains – a leader in the small SUVs that are ever-growing in popularity.

Having just released the all-new Jimny, Suzuki has now rolled out a new version of one of its other tiny sport-utes. It’s called the Hustler Tough Wild edition, and it puts the cute ute on an even more rugged path.

Based on the rough and tumble kei car launched just a few years ago, the Hustler Tough Wild arrives on the Japanese Domestic Market with a two-tone finish. The roof, A-pillar, rear quarter panel, door handles, and 15-inch wheels are all done up in black to contrast with the available pale blue, electric blue, red, yellow, or silver bodywork.

It also features retrimmed bumpers (front and rear), special badges, and a slew of interior enhancements as well. The seats are upholstered a navy and brown leatherette and fabric, with gunmetal accents and pale blue trim – all of which add up to a refreshing take on the little sport-ute (also sold under partnership as the Mazda Flair).

Power comes from the same 660cc three-cylinder engine as the standard model, mated to a CVT and driving either the front wheels or all four. It’s priced from just 1,487,160 yen, which works out barely more than $13k at current exchange rates. Shame we can’t get it in America, because something like this could make a compelling (and cost-effective) alternative to the Fiat 500X and Mini Countryman.