Maruti has once again entered into the turbo petrol game with the Fronx and it could not have been a better time. With diesel disappearing within the compact SUV space and the focus being on petrol, the Fronx is a crucial addition to the current range.
1. It is a coupe-like SUV based on the Baleno and brings in an element of fun for the driver. After the Baleno RS, Maruti brings back the turbo petrol. It is a Boosterjet unit which makes 100PS and 148Nm while being paired with a mild hybrid system. A 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters along with a 5-speed manual are being offered.
2. Styling is one of the big highlights of the Fronx (the name divides opinion!) and most of that revolves around the coupe-like roofline. The way the roofline flows is interesting and merges well with the wide tail lamps. Don't mistake this for a crossover as it has plenty of proper SUV styling cues like skid plates, thick cladding, square wheel arches and increased ground clearance. The front end has shades of the Grand Vitara with the grille and the DRL design which makes the car look wider and taller. Speaking of which, the Fronx is taller, wider and longer than the Baleno that it is based on. Overall, this is one of the nicest-looking cars in its class.
3. The interior reminds you of the Baleno although the Fronx gets a different dual-tone colour scheme which actually looks nicer along with the silver finish centre console. That said, it is identical to the Baleno and some differentiation would have been nice especially maybe with new dials? Quality and fit/finish are also quite good. The equipment list is as long as the Baleno too with a heads-up display, a 360-degree camera, a 9-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, climate control, Arkamys sound system, connected car tech, 6 airbags, ESP with Hill-Hold assist and more. There is no sunroof though.
4. Space is excellent for two passengers at the back and that includes even tall passengers as the coupe-like roofline does not eat into headroom at all. The space overall is very good like the Baleno with excellent legroom and decent width- although it is more of a comfortable four-seater. That said, it easily beats rivals in this department. Boot space at 308 litres is decent too.
5. The Fronx really makes sense as a fun, small SUV with its turbo petrol. Performance is sharp and unlike a non-turbo petrol, there is more torque which instantly provides a more fun driving experience with stronger performance. When keeping in mind turbo petrols, power is nice and linear. In the city, turbo petrol makes things smoother with more torque at low revs. Refinement is good as well. This engine does really elevate the Fronx. Also, a surprise is how well it handles some of the rough stuff with good ground clearance (190mm) and stable body control. It feels sportier and is the best Maruti in terms of being a fun-to-look-at/drive coupe-style SUV.
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