The Suzuki Hustler is a kei car (Japan's small-car class with a 660cc engine) styled like a mini SUV. It has a tall, boxy body, extra ground clearance and cheerful colours, and 4WD is available. It is cheap to buy, ship and run, and handles rough roads better than most small cars.
Kei Car Basics
- 660cc three-cylinder engine, non-turbo or turbo. The turbo is much better on hills and highways.
- Mild hybrid ("S-enecharge" / Hybrid) on many versions: a small motor-generator that saves fuel.
- Four seats; the rear seats slide and fold.
- Check how your country registers and taxes very small cars before you buy.
Generations and Grades
- 1st generation: 2014–2019. Grades A, G and X, each with turbo versions.
- 2nd generation: 2020 onwards, with more safety equipment.
- 4WD versions have hill-descent and grip-control features.
What to Check
- CVT gearbox: ask whether the inspector noted judder or whining.
- Turbo: ask about smoke or noise noted by the inspector.
- 4WD: make sure the listing matches the export certificate.
- Rust: kei cars from snowy regions can rust underneath.
- Auction sheet: read how to read a Japanese auction sheet.
Age Limits: Which Countries Can Take One
Some countries cap the age of an imported car: Jamaica allows up to 5 years, Trinidad & Tobago 4 years, and Kenya and Guyana 8 years. The Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, the Eastern Caribbean islands such as Saint Lucia and Antigua, Uganda and Tanzania have no strict age limit on our checker. Rules change, so always confirm with your clearing agent before you pay.
A 2018-onwards Hustler can go to Kenya and Guyana; older ones suit the no-limit markets.
The table at the bottom of this page applies each country's rule to our live stock and shows the cheapest delivered price. For the full list see import age limits by country, and for duty and port fees see how to calculate the total cost.
Looking at other kei cars? See our Suzuki Wagon R guide.