Maruti Suzuki Fronx

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx takes the popular Baleno hatch platform and gives it an SUV-inspired body that blends high ride height with a coupe-like roofline and strong shoulder line. The front end wears a bold grille flanked by squared LED headlamps and a puckered bumper that lifts its road presence. At the rear, sleek tail lamps and a roof spoiler add dynamism while retaining everyday usability.

Engineering focuses on versatility and drivability above outright performance. Suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and control, and ground clearance is generous for a compact crossover. The Fronx does not aim to be an off-roader but feels confident on broken city roads and highways alike.

Inside, the cabin is functional and user friendly. A floating touchscreen sits atop the dashboard, with easy-to-reach controls and logical placement of buttons. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and front occupants get supportive bolstering. Materials are competitive for the segment, though some hard plastics and simple trim surfaces remind you of the car’s value focus.

Rear seat space is accommodating for two adults with adequate headroom and knee room, and the boot is practical for weekend luggage or shopping runs. Visibility is good all around, aided by the upright seating position and ample glass area.

1) 1.2-litre DualJet petrol
This naturally aspirated unit is tuned for smooth responses and everyday usability. It produces healthy low-end torque and linear delivery that suits city driving and moderate highway progress. Refinement is strong for a small petrol engine, with minimal vibration and quiet cruising at urban speeds. Gear ratios in the 5-speed manual and AGS automatic help make traffic manoeuvring and relaxed touring easy.

2) 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol
This turbo unit brings genuine pep to the Fronx. It’s lively off the line and maintains strong mid-range punch, making overtakes and highway progress more effortless than the 1.2-litre. Smooth responses and willing acceleration combine with good refinement; engine noise is kept in check at moderate speeds and only climbs noticeably when pushed hard. The 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque-converter automatic pair well with the turbo, with automatic shifts feeling particularly composed in daily driving.

Refinement is generally good across both engines. Wind and tyre noise are controlled, and road harshness is absorbed confidently by the chassis, though wind noise can creep in at sustained high speeds.

Fuel efficiency is a strength for both variants. The 1.2-litre petrol returns strong economy figures in mixed driving thanks to its efficient DualJet tech and lightweight tuning. The Boosterjet turbo manages respectable economy for its performance level, especially when driven with restraint. Neither engine feels particularly thirsty for a compact petrol crossover.

Ride quality leans towards comfort without feeling floaty. Suspension soaks urban potholes and road irregularities with ease, and the Fronx feels composed on highway undulations. Steering is light in the city and builds confidence at higher speeds, though it does not offer feedback for enthusiastic driving.

Handling is predictable and secure rather than dynamic. Body roll is present through tighter bends, especially in taller ride height variants, but the car remains planted and confidence-inspiring for everyday use.

The Fronx comes well equipped. A touchscreen with smartphone connectivity anchors the centre stack, supported by connected car tech and a digital instrument cluster in higher variants. Convenience features such as rear AC vents, ample USB ports and steering-mounted controls add to everyday usability.

Safety kit includes multiple airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold assist and ISOFIX mounts. Parking sensors and a rear camera help in tight city situations. While not segment-topping, the safety suite is solid for its class.

The Fronx sits attractively within the compact SUV segment. The 1.2-litre petrol models appeal to buyers prioritising comfort, economy and ease of use, while the Boosterjet turbo variants attract those who want livelier performance without a large price jump. Competitive pricing, a broad feature list and sensible packaging make it a compelling choice for families and first-time SUV buyers alike.