iNTERVIEW with Suzuki Fronx

Suzuki’s unapologetically bold entry into the compact Coupé SUV segment

Suzuki Fronx—yes, that is its real name. No, it's not some typo from a malfunctioning keyboard or a Scrabble-winning hand. Instead, it's Suzuki’s unapologetically bold entry into the compact Coupé SUV segment, a daring fusion of sleek rooflines and SUV brawn. It's as if a practical hatchback and a rugged off-roader had a rebellious love child, and the result is this: the Fronx. This little stunner arrives with both flair and functionality, appealing to those who want a bit of rugged style without sacrificing urban versatility.

Packed with a trusty K15B 1.5-litre engine delivering 77 kW, the Fronx isn't here to burn rubber, but it’s peppy enough to get you where you need to go without guzzling fuel like a madman. And if you’re the type who likes a hands-off approach, the four-speed automatic option has you covered.

Inside, Suzuki has dialed up the "Crafted Futurism" design language with just enough high-tech features to make a James Bond car blush: multifunction leather steering, cruise control, a 9-inch infotainment screen on GLX models, and a 360-degree camera view. With all the NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) dampening thrown in, it’s practically a whisper on wheels. And let’s not overlook the safety kit—a generous array of airbags, ABS, and hill-hold control, all standard.

In every way, the Fronx says, “I’m here to disrupt the compact SUV scene.” So, let’s dive deeper into Suzuki’s funky Fronx and ask it a few questions, starting with...

1. So, Fronx, you’re being called a Coupé SUV. What’s that all about?

Ah, yes, the Coupé SUV. Think of it as my way of showing off some style while still being practical. I’ve got the sleek, sloping roofline of a coupé for that ‘too cool for school’ vibe, but I still rock the chunky, rugged SUV frame because, well, I like to get out there and explore. Who says you can’t have both?

2. People keep talking about your “Crafted Futurism” design. Care to explain?

Of course! Crafted Futurism is Suzuki’s way of making me look like I’ve arrived from 2035, but without the spaceship price tag. I combine solid build quality with forward-thinking design, meaning I’m as bold as I am practical. Basically, I’ve got the swagger of a supercar, but I won’t make you cry when you hit a pothole.

3. You’ve got a K15B engine under the hood. How does it perform?

Oh, that’s the heartbeat! My 1.5-litre engine delivers a zippy 77 kW, which is perfect for city driving and the occasional road trip. Plus, I weigh just over a tonne, so I can give you enough punch without guzzling fuel like a V8 monster. Efficient yet fun—that’s how I roll.

4. Are you more of a manual or automatic kind of SUV?

Why limit yourself? I come with both a five-speed manual for those who like to feel every gear shift, and a four-speed automatic for those who prefer to let me handle the hard work. Either way, you’ll enjoy the ride.

5. How do you compare to your bigger brother, the Grand Vitara?

Ah, the Grand Vitara—big, strong, and a bit of a show-off. But here’s the thing: he’s longer and bulkier at 4.345 metres, whereas I’m a compact 3.995 metres. That makes me a breeze to park in the city, and I’m still spacious enough to seat five adults. I’m the nippy one at family reunions, while the Vitara stands there, flexing. There’s room for both of us at the dinner table.

6. You’ve been called “funky.” How do you feel about that?

Funky? I’ll take it as a compliment! I’ve got those bold wheel arches, stylish alloy wheels, and daytime running lights that make me stand out. If funky means I’ve got some personality and I’m not just another boring car on the road, then I’ll wear that badge with pride.

7. Safety is a big concern these days. How do you keep your passengers protected?

I don’t mess around when it comes to safety. I’ve got the usual suspects like ABS, electronic stability, and hill hold control, but I also throw in up to six airbags if you go for the GLX model. ISOFIX anchors for child seats? Check. Plus, I’m built on Suzuki’s HEARTECT platform, so I’m light yet super strong. You’re in good hands—well, wheels—with me.

8. What’s this about luxury-level noise dampening in your cabin?

Oh, absolutely. I believe that when you’re cruising in style, the last thing you need is the sound of the outside world intruding on your zen. I’ve been fitted with noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) dampening, meaning I’m as quiet as a luxury car when you’re inside. No unnecessary engine noise, no tyre roar—just you, your tunes, and the road.

9. Speaking of tunes, what kind of tech are you packing inside?

Oh, I’m all about that digital life! I come with a 7-inch infotainment system on the GL, but my GLX models get a 9-inch screen with a full 360-degree camera view. Plus, I’ve got Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even wireless charging. My cabin is a tech paradise, so you can stay connected while on the move.

10. Final question—why should someone choose you over other compact SUVs?

Let’s be real—do you want just another cookie-cutter SUV, or do you want something with a bit of flair? I’ve got the looks, the tech, and the performance to make every drive fun. Plus, with Suzuki’s warranty and service plans, I’m as reliable as they come. I’m the SUV for those who want to stand out from the crowd, without breaking the bank.

The numbers

  • Engine: 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine

  • Power Output: 77 kW at 6,000 rpm

  • Torque: 138 Nm at 4,400 rpm

  • Transmission:

    • 5-speed manual

    • 4-speed automatic

  • Vehicle Weight: 1,010 kg

  • Dimensions:

    • Length: 3.995 m

    • Width: 1.765 m

    • Wheelbase: 2.520 m

    • Ground Clearance: 170 mm

  • Luggage Space:

    • 304 litres with rear seats up

    • 605 litres with rear seats folded (60:40 split)

  • Wheels: 16” alloy wheels (195/60 tyres)

  • Infotainment System:

    • 7-inch touchscreen on GL models

    • 9-inch touchscreen with 360-degree camera on GLX models

  • Safety Features:

    • 2 airbags (GL)

    • 6 airbags (GLX)

    • ABS with EBD

    • ESP (Electronic Stability Programme)

    • Hill Hold Control (HHC)

    • ISOFIX child seat anchors

  • Other Features:

    • Roof rails, shark-fin antenna, LED daytime running lights, 16” spare wheel, follow-me-home function (standard across all models)

    • Cruise control (standard)

    • Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) dampening

    • Keyless entry with push-button start (GLX)

    • Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity

    • Wireless charging (GLX)

    • Head-up display (GLX)

  • Colour Options:

    • Arctic White Pearl, Splendid Silver Pearl Metallic, Grandeur Grey Pearl Metallic, Celestial Blue Pearl Metallic, Lucent Orange Pearl Metallic, Bluish Black Pearl

  • Warranty: 5-year/200,000 km mechanical warranty

  • Service Plan: 4-year/60,000 km service plan

  • Roadside Assistance: 5 years

  • Anti-Corrosion Warranty: 6 years, unlimited kilometres

Reply

or to participate.