Its name may not roll off the tongue as easily as other products in
Suzuki’s local line-up, but the concept of taking an existing popular hatchback design and adding a modicum of adventure-focused stance has been the subject of conversation in our market for many years. From the original Volkswagen Cross Polo to the Renault Sandero Stepway and more recent offerings like the Renault Kiger, these otherwise standard hatchbacks that are granted a touch of ruggedness only by way of cosmetic upgrades have always been popular here.
The new
Fronx shares its underpinnings with the modern Baleno hatchback but, true to its mandate, gains flared wheel arches, a bespoke grille and headlamps application, pseudo bash plates, front and rear and roof rails compared with its hatch sibling. Significantly, the
Fronx offers 170 mm worth of ground clearance, 50 mm more than the Baleno.
The car is available in a choice of six solid colours and three dual-tone (with a black roof) options. You can tell which grade the car is via the colour of its 16-inch alloy wheels, black or polished silver.
Following the same grade walk as its sister car, the
Fronx is available in either GL or GLX specification, the latter adding nice-to-have features like wireless charging for your mobile phone, keyless entry and start, a head-up display and a more comprehensive trip computer sited between the instrument cluster. While GL specification is nevertheless generous, it’s a pity that such convenience items like height adjustment on the steering column and driver’s seat have been omitted from this entry-level derivative.
Highlights of the car’s interior include standard climate control throughout, electric windows, a reverse camera, cruise control and a generous luggage compartment. GL specification gains a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with a 9-inch item fitted to the flagship models. Auto headlamps and a leather-bound multifunction steering wheel are welcome inclusions throughout the range.
ABS-assisted brakes and a stability control programme will appeal to those purchasing a
Fronx for their young adult children. GL models are fitted with a driver and front passenger airbag, while GLX introduces side and curtain items to this list.
Shared throughout Suzuki’s product portfolio, the Fronx is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol motor that can be paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. The advantage of this proven powertrain is that it has an established reputation for being a keen yet frugal performer, its maker claiming an average fuel consumption of 5.5 L/100 km for the manual version.
With its raised ride height compared with a traditional hatchback comes a suitably lofty driving position, including good all-round visibility. The
Fronx’s steering is especially light, which helps make the car easy to manoeuvre around town – including while mounting the odd pavement…
The new
Suzuki Fronx range starts at R279 900 for the GL manual and peaks at R335 900 for the GLX auto. The car is sold with the brand’s 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan.
