Launched in April 2023, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx became an instant hit, thanks to its coupe-like styling, fuel-efficient engine and affordable pricing. It’s the first SUV sold through the brand’s Nexa to cross the five-lakh cumulative sales milestone in India. Now, the Maruti Fronx is set to receive its first midlife update in the coming months. As the updated model is undergoing extensive testing, several spy images and videos have emerged online.
Level 2 ADAS Functions
One of the biggest upgrades to the new Maruti Fronx will be the addition of a Level 2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) suite. It’s likely to offer features such as lane keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam assist and more. The test mule has been spotted with radar and LiDAR-like sensor modules, which are utilized for mapping and calibrating the active safety features.
The second major enhancements will be the introduction of Maruti Suzuki’s in-house developed strong hybrid powertrain. According to available information, the carmaker is likely to electrify its proven 1.2-litre, three-cylinder Z12E petrol engine.
Strong Hybrid Powertrain
Maruti Suzuki is developing a series hybrid system, which will be significantly more cost effective than Toyota’s series-parallel Atkinson hybrid technology. Maruti’s strong hybrid will work as a range extender, with the petrol engine working as a generator, an electric motor delivering power to the wheels and a battery pack powering the motor.
The lower and mid-level variants are expected to come with the 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engine, while the higher trims could be offered exclusively with the strong hybrid powertrain. Rumour has it that the Maruti Fronx hybrid could deliver a fuel efficiency of around 35kmpl.
Design Changes
Spy images reveal that the new Maruti Fronx hybrid will feature a ‘Hybrid’ badge on the rear. The compact crossover is expected to see minimal cosmetic changes such as a revised grille, tweaked bumpers and faux skid plate.
New Features
The interior is likely to remain largely unchanged. The updated Fronx will retain most of the features available in the current model including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HUD (head-up display), a 360-degree camera, automatic climate control, leather wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry and go, a wireless phone charger, ventilated seats, six airbags and more.
Expected Prices
The Maruti Fronx is currently priced between Rs 6.90 lakh – Rs 12.03 lakh (ex-showroom). The facelifted version is likely to see minimal price hike, while the strong hybrid variants are expected to command a premium of around Rs 1 lakh – 2 lakh premium over their regular petrol counterparts.