Maruti Is Bringing Back Turbo-Petrol Engines With The Baleno-based Fronx

Though based on the Baleno, it looks more SUV-ish and similar to the flagship Grand Vitara

Update (24/04/23): Maruti has launched the Fronx crossover SUV in India, starting from Rs 7.47 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Maruti’s first all-new SUV for 2023 is a crossover now known to be called the Fronx. The Baleno-based Fronx SUV has been revealed at the Auto Expo 2023, sporting some visual characteristics from the Grand Vitara and a new TURBO-PETROL engine. Bookings for it are already underway online as well as through dealerships. 

Also Read: Maruti Injects Practicality Into Off-roader Jimny, 5-Door Model Graces Auto Expo 2023

More Than Just A Buffed Up Baleno

The Fronx doesn’t score high for rugged looks, but gives more SUV-ish vibes with its increased ground clearance and muscular presence. Its front profile seems entirely fresh with the new mesh grille with a chrome strip, split headlamps with eyebrow-shaped LED DRLs and tri-element multi-reflector LED units positioned on the chunky bumper. With all these elements, the front fascia looks quite similar to the Grand Vitara. The side profile remains unchanged save for the new alloy wheels, body cladding, and roof rails. 

Its derriere will carry a coupe-like styling with a sloping roof and a protruding boot, which further complements its SUV look. The new connected LED taillamps feature vertical elements slanting outwards and the rear bumper are also new, with the addition of a prominent rear skid plate. Take a nice look at the back and you’ll be reminded of the Audi Q8 and a little bit of the Hyundai Tucson too. 

Changes To The Cabin

The cabin design of the Maruti Fronx is identical to the Baleno, finished in the burgundy-black upholstery theme from the Grand Vitara. Here, the commonalities are a good thing given the premium look combined with a host of useful features.

New Features

The Fronx gains a wireless charging pad while continuing with the same set of features of the Baleno. So, the list includes niceties such as a nine-inch touchscreen system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a heads-up display, cruise control, a 360-degree camera, six airbags, and ESP (electronic stability programme). 

BoosterJet Makes A Comeback

The most exciting change about the Maruti Fronx is underneath the hood. It will bring back the Baleno RS’ 1-litre turbo-petrol BoosterJet engine, but in a new, mild-hybrid avatar. The engine is rated to deliver 100PS and 148Nm and is mated to a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. Maruti states that the turbo-petrol engine is good for a 0-60kmph sprint in 5.3 seconds. The Baleno’s 90PS, 1.2-litre petrol engine is also on offer here, which can be opted with a five-speed manual or a five-speed AMT. 

Also read: Maruti Jimny 5-door And Fronx SUVs Order Books Now Open

Expected Price And Rivals

Maruti is expected to price the Fronx crossover from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). There are no direct rivals for this sporty cross-hatch but it can be seen as an alternative to the Maruti Baleno first, and also the Tata Punch and Citroen C3. It also presents as an attractive alternative to the subcompact SUVs.