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The Fronx, Maruti Suzuki's Baleno-based SUV coupe, was unveiled at the 2023 Auto Expo and bookings have been opened. This new SUV coupe will be available in April through the brand's Nexa stores.
Because the Fronx is based on the Baleno, this also means that is underpinned by the Heartect monocoque platform. Apart from a few body panels shared on the outside, the Fronx gets a more upright nose and a split headlamp set-up similar to the Grand Vitara.
The revised front and rear bumpers are more pronounced, with dedicated faux skid plates at both ends and a subtle chrome action. It gets 17-inch alloy wheels with a new design that is exclusive to the Fronx and not shared by any other Maruti car. The Fronx also incorporates styling cues from the Baleno hatchback, such as the rising waistline with a significant hunch over the rear wheels and the roofline with a prominent dip towards the tailgate. The Fronx is 3,995mm long, 1,550mm high, and 1,765mm wide, which is similar to the Baleno.
The Fronx shares several interior components with the Baleno, including the dashboard, seating, and equipment list, all of which are intended to mimic the premium Maruti hatchback. However, there will be variances in textures and colors, among other things, between the two models.
Maruti Suzuki's first and only turbo-petrol engine, the 1.0-litre Boosterjet, made its debut in India in 2017 in the previous-generation Baleno. The engine was positioned as a more sporty option to the standard engine lineup and was only offered in the top-spec Baleno RS. However, due to low sales and stricter emissions regulations, Maruti Suzuki was forced to discontinue the engine.
However, the turbo engine returns with the Fronx, producing 100hp and 147.6Nm of torque. It is mated to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission (with paddle shifters) optional. Maruti also provides a 1.2-litre K-series (90hp and 130Nm) naturally aspirated petrol engine with a 5-speed manual or an AMT automatic transmission. However, unlike the Grand Vitara, the Fronx does not have AWD technology.
