Earlier this month, Maruti Suzuki began exports of the Fronx compact SUV to Japan. The Japan-spec model of the SUV ditches the ‘Maruti’ monicker and is sold as the Suzuki Fronx. It also gets additional features in the form of an All Wheel Drive and an ADAS package. Under the hood, it sports a 1.5-litre petrol engine, similar to the Fronx model exported to other markets.
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Table of Contents
Japan-spec Suzuki Fronx: Here’s what’s different
The Japanese model of the Suzuki Fronx is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine. This engine is linked to a mild-hybrid system. There are two transmission options on offer – a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed torque converter automatic (with paddle shifters).
The Suzuki Fronx sports the ‘AllGrip’ tech in Japan, which means the power from the engine is channelled to all four wheels. There are four off-roading modes on offer – Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock. These modes can be toggled using the dedicated button on the SUV’s centre console. Being an AWD model, the suspension architecture of the Japanese Fronx is different from its Indian counterpart.
The interior of the Japan-spec Suzuki Fronx is much more premium than its Indian version. The door handles, steering, and centre console are finished in piano black. The interior follows a dark brown and plum colour theme. The seats receive leatherette upholstery which is consistent with the interior colour theme. The biggest feature upgrade on the SUV is the ADAS package which sports features like lane keep assist, emergency braking, electronic parking brake, hill-hold assist, automatic cruise control, and more.
In India, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is available in two powertrain options. The 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine produces a maximum power output of 100hp and 147Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. The 1.2-litre K Series naturally aspirated petrol engine produces a maximum power output of 90hp and 113Nm of torque. This engine can also be mated to a 5-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The India-spec Fronx does not come with a mild-hybrid setup.
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Conclusion
The Made-in-India Suzuki Fronx will launch in Japan on October 16. The automaker has already received 600 bookings for the SUV. The delivery rollout for the Fronx will roll out soon after its launch. The recent Fronx shipment from India to Japan consisted of 1,600 units. In India, the Fronx rivals the Tata Punch, Citroen C3, Hyundai Exter, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger.
