Maruti Suzuki Fronx is one among the many pseudo SUVs and crossovers which are essentially hatchbacks with a raised stance. However, in India it enjoys the status of an SUV even though it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive (AWD) which is considered as a basic requirement for an SUV.
However, the Fronx somewhat fulfils this criteria in Japan as it is offered AWD. Maruti Suzuki recently started exporting units of Fronx to Japan from India but unlike other foreign markets where it is available only as a front-wheel driven model, the Japan-spec Fronx comes with the option of AWD.
Japan-spec Suzuki Fronx: Powertrain spec
Like every Fronx exported overseas, those headed to Japan are also built at the SMG (Suzuki Motor Group) factory in Gujarat. The Japan-spec Fronx is powered with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with mild hybrid tech. The same setup is also present in the Fronx sold in South Africa. Gearbox options include a five-speed manual and a six-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters.
The AllGrip Select AWD tech is available only on the higher trims, although the car has no external “AllGrip” badging. The AllGrip Select is Suzuki’s mid-level AWD tech that sits above the AllGrip Auto and below the AllGrip Pro. This setup is seen in the Grand Vitara sold in our country. It offers driver control with four “off-road” modes to choose from: Auto, Sport, Snow and Lock.
The system is electronically controlled via buttons on the centre console. Sport and Snow modes modulate throttle settings and send power to the rear wheels as needed depending on road conditions and driver input. The suspension setup on the Fronx AWD is different, too, with the rear torsion beam setup getting a unique layout to accommodate the AWD system.
Japan-spec Suzuki Fronx: Other features
Besides the engine and the drivetrain, the Japan-spec Fronx also gets additional features, the most prominent of them being Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which comprises lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Other additional features include front parking sensors, an electronic parking brake with hill-hold, automatic cruise control, heated seats, etc.
Not only equipment but the Japan-spec Fronx also gets a different interior scheme featuring a sophisticated dark brown and plum colour scheme, complemented by extensive use of soft-touch materials on the door pads and various other surfaces. Adding to the premium ambiance, the door handles, steering wheel, and centre console feature a sleek piano black finish.
The seats are wrapped in a dual-tone upholstery wearing plum and black colour scheme, combining faux leather and cloth upholstery for a refined and luxurious look.
