The Indian automobile market has always been a playground for innovation, practicality, and style. Leading this charge is Maruti Suzuki, a name synonymous with reliability and customer trust. Their latest entrant into the compact SUV segment, the Maruti FRONX, is a bold statement of design, technology, and performance. Combining the charm of a crossover with the practicality of a hatchback, the FRONX is more than just a new model—it’s a fresh approach to what urban Indian car buyers truly need.
A Fresh Face in the SUV Line-Up
The Maruti FRONX is based on the popular Baleno platform but has undergone a radical transformation. What you get is a crossover SUV that fits perfectly between the Baleno and the Brezza in Maruti’s lineup. With bold design elements, a coupe-like sloping roofline, and rugged SUV cues, the FRONX is clearly aimed at younger buyers looking for both style and substance.
The front grille is heavily inspired by the Grand Vitara, with a wide and aggressive stance that gives it a premium look. Sleek LED DRLs, projector headlamps, and muscular wheel arches add to its sporty personality. The rear is equally stylish, with connected LED tail lamps and a chunky bumper that makes it look wider and more planted.
Compact Yet Spacious
Despite its compact dimensions, the FRONX surprises with its interior space. Thanks to the smart packaging and Suzuki’s Heartect platform, the cabin feels airy and comfortable. The seats are well-cushioned, offering good under-thigh support, and there’s ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Boot space is generous for a car in this segment, making it a practical choice for families and urban travelers.
The dual-tone dashboard, soft-touch materials, and chrome accents give the interior a modern and upmarket feel. The infotainment system is a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Arkamys-tuned audio for a rich sound experience.
Engine and Performance
Maruti FRONX is offered with two engine options:
- 1.2-litre DualJet, Dual VVT petrol engine – This engine, also seen in the Baleno, produces 89 bhp and 113 Nm of torque. It’s smooth, fuel-efficient, and comes with either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox.
- 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine – Making a comeback after being discontinued, this turbocharged engine delivers 100 bhp and 147.6 Nm of torque. It’s paired with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. This variant offers a more spirited driving experience, especially for those looking for a little more excitement on the road.
While it may not be a true off-roader, the FRONX handles city driving with ease. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in traffic. Ride quality is composed, with the suspension tuned well for Indian road conditions.
Safety and Features
Maruti has loaded the FRONX with a good set of features for the price. It comes equipped with six airbags (in higher variants), ESP with hill-hold assist, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. This makes it one of the safer offerings in the segment, which is a big plus for family buyers.
Other key features include:
- Wireless charging pad
- Automatic climate control
- Head-up display (HUD)
- Cruise control
- Keyless entry with push-button start
Fuel Efficiency and Value
Fuel efficiency has always been a strong point for Maruti, and the FRONX is no different. The 1.2L petrol variant returns around 22.9 km/l, while the 1.0L turbo variant offers around 20 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs on the market.
With a starting price of around ₹7.5 lakh (ex-showroom) and going up to around ₹13 lakh, the FRONX offers solid value for money. It undercuts many of its rivals while offering similar (or better) features, design, and performance.
Final Thoughts
The Maruti FRONX is a refreshing change in the compact SUV space. With its bold design, feature-rich interior, efficient engines, and Maruti’s unmatched service network, the FRONX is clearly positioned to become a popular choice for urban and semi-urban buyers alike.
Whether you’re a young professional looking for a stylish first car, or a small family needing a reliable daily driver, the FRONX ticks most boxes. It’s not just a car—it’s Maruti Suzuki’s way of redefining the compact SUV segment for the next generation of Indian drivers.