Maruti Suzuki, India’s most trusted carmaker, has once again struck the right chord with Indian buyers by introducing a crossover-hatchback that’s turning heads across the country the Maruti Suzuki Fronx.
First showcased at the Auto Expo 2023, the Fronx combines the high-riding appeal of an SUV with the comfort, affordability, and compact dimensions of a hatchback. It’s stylish, efficient, feature-rich, and competitively priced, making it a compelling option for first-time buyers and urban commuters alike.
Design: SUV Style in a Compact Package
One of the Fronx’s biggest highlights is its design. Drawing cues from Maruti’s SUV lineup, especially the Grand Vitara, the Fronx features a bold front fascia with a wide grille, split LED headlamps, and muscular lines that give it a strong road presence. The sloping coupe-like rear and high ground clearance make it feel more like a mini SUV than a traditional hatchback.
Maruti Suzuki has successfully blended rugged styling with a modern aesthetic, making the Fronx especially appealing to younger buyers looking for a trendy vehicle that stands out.
Performance: Efficiency Meets Excitement
The Fronx comes with two petrol engine options to suit different driving preferences.
For those who crave a bit more punch, the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbocharged engine offers impressive acceleration and mid-range performance a rare find in this price segment. On the other hand, the 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine prioritizes fuel efficiency and refinement, making it ideal for city driving and long-distance travel.
Both engines are paired with manual and automatic transmission options, giving drivers the flexibility to choose their preferred driving experience without sacrificing fuel economy.
Interior and Features: Premium Meets Practical
Inside, the Fronx offers a surprisingly premium feel. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed with a layered dashboard design, quality materials, and a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims also get features like a 360-degree camera, head-up display (HUD), wireless charging, and automatic climate control features typically found in more expensive cars.
The ergonomics are spot-on, and despite its compact footprint, the Fronx provides ample legroom and boot space, making it practical for families as well as daily commuters.
Safety: Confidence on Every Drive
Safety has been a growing focus for Maruti Suzuki, and the Fronx doesn’t fall short. Dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), hill-hold assist, and ISOFIX child seat mounts are offered as standard. Top variants add more protection with six airbags, a rear-view camera, and advanced driver aids.
This focus on safety not only makes the Fronx suitable for urban traffic but also inspires confidence on highways and longer journeys.
Affordability: Premium Features Without the Premium Price
Despite its premium feel and extensive feature list, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx remains highly accessible. Prices start at ₹7.52 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base Sigma variant and go up to ₹13.04 lakh for the top-end Alpha Turbo AT. This positions it as a strong value-for-money option in the crossover hatchback space, offering features usually reserved for pricier cars.