The launch of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx crossover is expected within the next few months, and its bookings have already commenced. Based on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno, the Fronx will be positioned on a par with the Brezza, but under the Nexa umbrella. While we have already compared it with its Arena sibling, this article explores what sets the Fronx apart from its parent vehicle.
Grand Vitara-like Design
- Both cars have quite distinct aesthetics. While the Baleno has a more aggressive grille and sweptback headlamps, the Fronx features a large grille with thick chrome strips and slim DRLs. It has an SUV-like face, resembling the Grand Vitara.
- Profile-wise, there are many similarities. However, the Fronx has blacked-out body cladding, beefy fenders and flared wheel arches. Furthermore, the roof rails and the outstretched rear end provide the Fronx with a more rugged and crossover-like appearance.
- Similar to the front, the changes are relatively significant at the back. The Fronx gets a completely distinctive tailgate design with a connected LED tail light setup, while the Baleno has a more conventional LED splitter.
- Overall, the Fronx looks more butch because of its upright design, body cladding and faux skid plates. On the other hand, the Baleno is unmistakably a hatchback.
Dimensions
| Baleno | Fronx | |
| Length | 3990mm | 3995mm |
| Width | 1745mm | 1765mm |
| Height | 1500mm | 1550mm |
| Wheelbase | 2520mm | 2520mm |
| Ground Clearance | – | 190mm |
| Boot Space | 318L | 308L |
Despite being based on the same Heartact platform, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is slightly longer, wider and taller than the Baleno, probably because of the extended body elements. However, the wheelbase of both cars is identical, but you’ll have to compromise on boot space if you go with the Fronx.
Interior and Features
- Inside, the Fronx has an identical dashboard layout to the Baleno; however, it comes wrapped in a burgundy-&-black theme instead of Baleno’s blue-&-black scheme.
- When it comes to features, both cars share the same list of equipment, comprising automatic headlamps, 9-inch touchscreen infotainment, Arkamys-tuned sound system, cruise control, height-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic AC, rear AC vents, auto-dimming IRVM, a heads-up display (HUD), 360-degree camera, up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP with hill-hold and much more. The only difference between the two is the addition of a wireless smartphone charger and wireless integration support for smartphones in the crossover.
Powertrain
Maruti Suzuki offers the Fronx and Baleno with the same 90PS/113Nm 1.2-litre DualJet petrol engine that can be had with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 5-speed AMT unit. What’s missing in the Baleno is the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine option offered with the Fronx, which makes 100PS and 148Nm of peak output. Transmission choices for this powermill include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic unit.
Price
| Baleno | Fronx |
| Rs 6.49 lakh to Rs 9.71 lakh | Ye-to-be-revealed |
The Maruti Suzuki Baleno ranges from Rs 6.49 lakh to Rs 9.71 lakh (ex-showroom). The prices of Fronx will be revealed by March this year. We expect it to be priced between Rs 7 – 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
