Suzuki’s popular light crossover, the Hustler , is scheduled for a long-awaited full model change in 2026, creating a lot of buzz in the automotive industry. For those currently considering purchasing a Hustler, an important decision point will be whether to buy now or wait for the new model.
In this article, we will provide a detailed analysis of the latest information on the new Hustler and offer specific advice on when to buy.
Innovation points of the new 2026 Hustler model
All vehicles come standard with the 48V mild hybrid “Super Ene Charge”
The biggest highlight of the new Hustler is the standard installation of the 48V mild hybrid system “Super Ene Charge” on all vehicles . With a significant power increase from the previous 12V system to 48V, the following improvements are expected:
- Motor output has increased by more than four times: from around 3 horsepower to 13 horsepower
- Change from belt drive to gear drive : Significant reduction in energy loss
- Dramatic improvement in fuel economy : 27.0km/L for naturally aspirated engines and 24.5km/L for turbocharged engines
- Dramatic improvement in driving performance : Fundamentally resolves the lack of power when starting and accelerating
Simultaneous launch of the first minicar EV model, the Hustler EV
The new Hustler will also be available alongside Suzuki’s first light-duty electric vehicle model, the Hustler EV .
Light wagon EV “eWX”
Key specifications of the Hustler EV:
- Range: Approximately 200km (sufficient for everyday use)
- Maximum output: 64ps (self-imposed limit for light vehicles)
- Maximum torque: 18.0 kgm (power equivalent to a 2L engine)
- Estimated price: Around 2 million yen (even more affordable with subsidies)
SUZUKI BEV
Bold evolution of exterior design
Hustler
The exterior of the new Hustler inherits the round headlights that are characteristic of the Hustler, but has evolved into a more “slightly bad-boy” and powerful design.
Major design changes:
- Larger and sharper headlights
- The wider under-grille emphasizes a tough impression
- Wheelhouse guard and reinforced resin protector on body side
- Addition of new, more distinctive color variations
Full-fledged interior for overnight stays in the car
The interior of the new Hustler will feature an innovative design that combines an outdoor-oriented feel with digitalization .
Interior evolution points:
- The front seats can be folded flat, making them perfect for sleeping in the car.
- The water-repellent sheet means you can use it outdoors without worrying about it getting dirty.
- Large infotainment display and voice recognition
- Digital meter adoption improves visibility and customization
- Significantly improved quietness makes long-distance travel more comfortable
Latest safety technology as standard
The new Hustler will be equipped with Dual Sensor Brake Support II (DSBS II) as standard equipment on all vehicles .
Key safety features include:
- Supports detection of vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles
- Adaptive cruise control with electric parking brake
- Achieves top-level safety performance among minicars
Current Hustler vs. New Hustler: A thorough comparison
Price comparison
Current Hustler price range:
- Hybrid G (FF): 1,518,000 yen
- Hybrid X Turbo (4WD): 1,884,000 yen
Estimated price of the new Hustler:
- Entry grade: Around 1.62 million yen (expected to increase by about 100,000 yen)
- Hustler EV: Around 2 million yen
Although the adoption of new technology inevitably leads to an increase in price, it is still within a reasonable range considering the improved performance.
Performance comparison
| item | Current model | New model (predicted) |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Voltage | 12V | 48V |
| Motor output | 2.6-3.1ps | 13ps |
| Fuel economy (NA) | 25.0km/L | 27.0km/L |
| Fuel economy (turbo) | 22.6km/L | 24.5km/L |
| Drive system | Belt drive | Gear drive |
Should I wait for the new Hustler? Deciding when to buy
People who should wait for the new model
We recommend waiting for the new model if:
- Those who value the latest technology
- I’m attracted to the advanced features of the 48V mild hybrid
- I’m interested in an EV model
- Prioritize fuel efficiency
- Those who plan to use it for a long time
- Intended for long-term use of 10 years or more
- Focus on future resale value
- Seeking the latest safety technology
- Outdoor and car camping enthusiasts
- Looking for a full-fledged car camping function
- I’m attracted to the tougher design
- Emphasis on practical features such as water repellency
Who should buy the current model?
Consider purchasing a current model if:
- Those who value cost performance
- Want to reduce initial costs
- I want to take advantage of discounts before a full model change.
- Basic performance is satisfactory
- If you need a car urgently
- Your current car is broken down or its inspection is about to expire
- There are circumstances that make it impossible to wait until 2026
- I want to avoid worrying about delivery dates
- For those who prefer simple functionality
- Do not like excessive electrification
- Current 12V systems are sufficient
- Emphasis on reliability of mature technology
New Hustler release schedule and points to note
Detailed release date forecast
Estimated release schedule for 2026:
- Official announcement: Late 2025-early 2026
- Pre-orders begin: Spring 2026
- Release date: Autumn 2026
Notes regarding delivery dates
Delivery risk immediately after a full model change:
- Initial delivery time: Expected to be around 3 to 6 months
- Delivery times for popular grades may be extended further
- EV models may have particularly long delivery times
Advice on meeting deadlines:
- Early information gathering and reservations are important
- Preparation for multiple grades
- Measures to extend the life of current vehicles are also being considered.
Comparative analysis with competing models
Positioning in the mini crossover market
Current competitive situation:
- Daihatsu Taft: Price competitiveness is attractive
- Mitsubishi eK Cross: Differentiation through design
- Nissan Roox: Characterized by its spacious interior
Advantages of the new Hustler:
- 48V mild hybrid is an industry first
- Wide range of options with EV model settings
- Brand power and outdoor adaptability
Comparison with a standard compact SUV
Comparison with a regular SUV priced around 2 million yen:
- Yaris Cross: A balance of driving performance and fuel economy
- Vezel: Quality and equipment
- New Hustler EV: Tax benefits and easy handling
Specific advice for making a purchasing decision
How to gather information
Effective ways to gather information:
- Visiting a dealer : Staying up to date and building relationships
- Test drive experience : Checking basic performance of the current model
- Participating in exhibitions : Taking advantage of opportunities to experience new technologies
- Owner community : Collecting actual usage information
How to create a financial plan
Preparing funds to purchase the new Hustler:
- Estimated vehicle price: 1.62 to 2 million yen
- Total cost including all expenses: Approximately 1.8 to 2.2 million yen
- Pre-assessment of trade-in and purchase prices
- Consideration of financing methods such as loans and leases
Current car disposal timing
Best time to transfer:
- Check the appraisal price before the vehicle inspection
- Weighing the risk of failure and repair costs
- Decision after the official announcement of the new Hustler
Summary: What’s the best choice for you?
The new Hustler certainly offers performance and features that far exceed the current model, but whether you should wait or not depends on your values and situation .
Benefits of waiting for the new model:
- Dramatic performance improvement through cutting-edge technology
- A new option: EV models
- Total cost reduction over long-term use
- Greatly improved outdoor compatibility
Advantages of the current model:
- Immediate purchase and delivery available
- Price advantage before full model change
- Peace of mind from mature technology
- Sufficient basic performance
Ultimately, your decision will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and the value you seek in a car .
The new Hustler is sure to be an innovative evolution, but the current model is also a very attractive light crossover. We hope that the information in this article will help you make a decision you won’t regret.
