Suzuki has revealed a new small crossover with a strange name Fronxand it will fill the Baleno-shaped void in the Australian company’s lineup.
Like many Suzuki products, the Fronx has been designed, developed and manufactured in India by Maruti’s Suzuki division – but with export to markets including Australia in mind.
It’s based on the same platform as the updated Baleno hatch revealed last year – which as we reported won’t be coming to Australia – in a similar relationship to the VW Polo and T-Cross.
It’s a fairly conservative design overall, spiced up by clear shoulder lines and some interesting two-tone color options, as well as LED including a full-width rear light bar.
At 3995mm long, the Fronx slots between the Ignis and Vitara, and will compete with other products such as the Hyundai Venue, Kia Stonic, Toyota Yaris Cross and the larger MG ZS.
Two engines are available in India. We’re still not sure about Australian plans, but we’d speculate only the more powerful 74kW and 148Nm 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo petrol will come here, mated to a six-speed automatic with paddles and fitted with auto start/stop .
The base engine is a 66kW and 113Nm 1.2-litre non-turbo.
Inside is a 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 360-degree camera view, head-up display with turn signals. wireless charging, app connectivity and the Arkamys sound system are all available.
The Indian model will get six airbags, and you can expect the export model to get the necessary driver assistance aids like autonomous emergency braking.
Fronx made its debut at the Auto Expo in Delhi alongside the five-door Jimny and the eVX electric SUV concept.
As reported this week, Suzuki had its best sales performance in Australia for almost a decade in 2022, increasing volume 23.5 per cent year-on-year.
The bad news for Suzuki Australia going forward is that its top seller in 2022, the low-cost Baleno light car (6124 units, up 57.2 per cent), has now been discontinued, meaning the company will have to find volume from other models this year.
At least, until Fronx rolls into town.
