When you say Suzuki, a few things pop up in mind here in the Philippines. First of course is the Jimny which is a global icon. Second is their fuel-efficient small hatchbacks before like the Alto and Celerio. Third, the frugal 7-seaters they have for the family in the XL7 and Ertiga. If you want something bigger than a hatchback but more adventurous, there’s a definite void in their lineup — until now.
The Suzuki Fronx took the brand’s learnings from the hatchback and SUV spaces and combined them in one sleek package. There are too many reasons to like it but here are 5 that make it compelling.
1. Eye-catching without compromise
The Fronx does not look like any Suzuki before it. If it wasn’t for the emblem at the center of the grille, you wouldn’t think this is a crossover from the so-called ‘small car expert.’ It has a very sculpted front, a 2-segment grille, tri-panel low-position headlights, and that sharp 3-segment daytime running lights.
Its side profile is a bit tame with minimal cladding, and just the right amount of accent at the skirt. The 170 mm of ground clearance and 16-inch alloy wheels also give it a good stance. There’s also functional roof rails present up top. What’s captivating here is the sloping roofline that leads to the rear giving it a fastback appeal. It’s also a teaser on how sporty this Fronx could be.
Meanwhile, the rear flaunts the sporty nature of the Fronx. Slim taillights with 3-segment LED like the daytime running lights give it a sleek look. It’s then complemented by the huge bumper with a tall skid plate for a bit of rugged appeal.
2. Energetic and nimble
At the core of the Fronx is a 1.5-liter engine with SHVS or Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki. It gives the total output to 101 PS and 135 Nm of torque. What makes this setup fun is they paired it to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It gave the Fronx faster response during acceleration especially in overtaking, and there’s also paddle shifters for quick shifts without taking your hands off the steering wheel.
In the city, the Fronx is still a delight to be with. The steering is very responsive and makes short work of tight turns. It’s light, but firms up when you get up to speed. That and the paddle shifters allow you to maximize the engine’s prowess whether you’re in or out of the city.
3. Legit efficiency
Suzuki has taken their wizardry in small hatchbacks into the engine of the Fronx. It has Dual Jet technology that gives it better fuel efficiency, throttle response, and smoother response.
Suzuki already conducted a test together with the Automobile Association of the Philippines and it yielded 27.99 km/L. That means in exclusive highway driving, the Fronx can go up to 1,000 km in a single tank of gas. Of course, we’ve tried it out in the real world. During a drive to Bataan, the best car in our batch returned 22 km/l. The difference may be significant but considering the uphills, overtakes, and rural traffic we had to deal with, that is indeed stellar.
4. Sensible and modern cabin
Modern is not an exaggeration when talking about the Fronx’s cabin. For starters, it’s available with a heads-up display which is unique in this price point. There’s also a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Push Start button, Automatic Aircon, and a Wireless Charger.
Rear occupants won’t be left out as well. They have dedicated air vents, and 2-USB charging ports that go with their cubby holes and bottle holders. The rear seat also allows for 304 liters of space at the back, or 605 liters if they are folded.
5. Safety in all aspects
Suzuki made the effort to fit 6 airbags in all variants of the Fronx. Also standard is the ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Hill Hold Control, Electronic Stability Program, and Rear Parking Sensors.
ADAS or Advanced Driver Assist System is also present in the Fronx. Suzuki calls it their Suzuki Safety Support and it’s a bit more than usual. It includes Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Keep Assist, Weaving Alert, Automatic High Beam, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The mid-trim GLX gets standard Cruise Control while the top-of-the-line SGX has Adaptive Cruise Control.
All of this allowed the Suzuki Fronx to get a 5-star rating at the ASEAN NCAP, assuring you that these safety features will truly protect you when needed.
The Suzuki Fronx starts at P 1,059,000 and tops out at P 1,299,000 with all those bells and whistles. It has the right size, features, and price for the young go-getters and starting families for their daily drive in and out of the city. If you want this new generation of Suzuki crossover, head on to your nearest dealer now to see it in the metal and try it out for yourself.
Words by Vincent Villa
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