Maruti Suzuki wants to achieve a 25% market share in the SUV segment and aims to do so with the help of products like Jimny and Fronx. We saw the products during Auto Expo 2023 and now it was time to drive the Fronx. Some more wait for Jimny though.
Since the car first broke cover earlier this year, we try to answer some of the most important questions in this story. You can check out the first drive report on the Times Drive YouTube channel for friends who want to see the car.
Is the new Maruti Suzuki Fronx a jazzed-up Baleno?
It is not, no. However it requests as a comparative vehicle as the outline is an impression of the Baleno’s, the general persona is unique, with an unmistakable looking face and tail plan.
It more closely resembles the Grand Vitara thanks to the NEXWave grille, striking chrome strips, and lighting components. Although the crystal block LED DRLs and connected rear combination light setup make it appear cool, the chrome strip could have been sleeker.
Coming back to the persona bit, the car still looks like a bulked-up hatchback. It gets 20 mm extra ground clearance, 50 mm extra height and 16-inch wheels.
Is it sportier than the Baleno?
It is, yes. Although it is not a revolutionary product, it will undoubtedly meet Indian customers’ expectations for compact SUVs. at the very least the turbo version that we drove.
On the off chance that we don’t get into the typical going romping back or four-wheel drive contentions, the Fronx looks a bit bolder, gets additional ground freedom and has a respectable suspension. Maruti Suzuki also planned a session with a gymkhana track and some off-roading to emphasize the point.
Is Boosterjet the next best thing for Maruti Suzuki?
Perhaps not. I won’t lie to you. The arrival of Boosterjet is most certainly significant and fundamental for Maruti Suzuki checking out at the changing state of mind of Indian clients. The new Fronx has that extra punch that makes it fun to drive once you get past the first turbo lag zone. Therefore, if you want to see this car in its purest form, avoid driving in bumper-to-bumper traffic; once you get past 2000 RPM, you will feel the thrust.
What about the space, features and safety in the Fronx?
Fronx is an extensive vehicle, particularly when we see a portion of different vehicles in the conservative SUV fragment. The second row of the Fronx has sufficient shoulder room, thigh support, and knee and leg room. If you are a tall passenger, you would miss a little more headroom.
Features:
- The features list includes most of the highlights we had seen in the new Baleno. A 9-inch HD Smart Play Pro+ infotainment system (top end) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, cruise control, idle start-stop button, and heads-up display.
- A cooling vent for the wireless charger and a better 360-view camera is something I would suggest Maruti to work upon.
- You have the Suzuki Connect system as well with 40+ intelligent features, with Smartphone App, Smart Watch and Alexa connectivity.
Performance of Maruti Suzuki Nexa Fronx?
Fronx is an agreeable tomfoolery bundle generally speaking. The dealing with, directing way of behaving and suspension arrangement make this a smooth and simple to drive vehicle. The vehicle could take awful streets and knocks effectively, without the suspension reaching as far down as possible.
On the corners, it isn’t the sportiest, but it stands its ground, giving passengers confidence and keeping them calm. It’s a good car for the city because of how well it rides. The steering, braking, and engine grunt may not be the most engaging or outstanding, but you won’t be let down.
Should you buy the Fronx?
You can. The prices are not out yet, but if the price difference between the Baleno and Fronx is reasonable, you should rather go for Fronx. The space, features, ride quality and the drive makes it a practical, versatile product. Boosterjet version could be more frugal but for other customers 1.2 L avatar is also an option.
Specifications: