Suzuki Auto South Africa has introduced a new model into its local line-up. The Suzuki Fronx is a small crossover that will, undoubtedly, be appealing to a large segment of new-car buyers. We attended the local ride-and-drive event to learn more.
The small crossover segment is a lucrative one as many new-car buyers are stepping straight into these lifestyle type vehicles, preferring them over hatchbacks and sedans, as used to be the case. The Suzuki Fronx is the first of its kind for the brand and appears locally mere months after its international debut this year.
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What the Fronx?
First up, that name. We were as perplexed as most when we first heard it. In Suzuki’s own words Fronx is a portmanteau of:
“Frontier” which refers to both the way in which the vehicle crosses a frontier for Suzuki in this market segment and how its design crosses a frontier between SUV and coupé. The second term is “X”, pointing to the crossover nature of the Fronx.
Stylish Prospect
Now that we have that out of the way we can tell you more about the newcomer. The overall appearance is quite bold. The Fronx has a distinctive appearance that takes design cues from other models in the line-up, such as those split headlamp units. The coupe-esque roofline is quite evident, especially in the dual-tone colour scheme.
There were many positive comments about the Fronx, most that draw parallels between it and a few premium products on the market. Some saw similar lines to a VW Taigo while others likened it to a Ranger Rover Evoque or a Jaguar F-Pace. We suspect this car’s appearance will attract many buyers to Suzuki showrooms.
Four Versions
The Suzuki Fronx will be sold in four different variants locally. There are GL and GLX trim levels and each is available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The quickest way to tell them apart, certainly from the outside, is the colour of the standard 16-inch alloy wheels, which are silver on the GLX (as pictured) or painted black on GL versions.
Regardless of the derivative, propulsions comes from a 1,5-litre inline four. This naturally aspirated unit develops 77 kW of power and 138 N.m of torque. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels. While a turbopetrol option is available overseas, there are no plans for SASA to introduce it locally.
Standard Spec
Suzuki has given all versions of the Fronx a decent level of standard specification. Items on the list include electric windows, central locking, climate control and power steering. A touchscreen infotainment interface is standard, though full colour on the GLX. It also serves as the display for the standard rear-facing camera.
In either case the system offers Bluetooth connectivity as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. The system can be controlled via remote buttons on the leather-clad steering wheel. There are a pair of rear-mounted USB charging points as well as a front-mounted 12V charging socket. GLX versions have wireless charging for mobile phones.
SASA is upping the value-for-money aspect with a five-year/200 000 km promotional mechanical warranty and a four-year/60 000 km service plan. Not to mention five years of roadside assistance.
On the Road
We drove the Suzuki Fronx quite a bit on the local launch event, more than we usually drive most cars at an introductory event. This extended time behind the wheel allowed us to experience the vehicle in a wide array of scenarios, from morning city traffic to open motorway cruising, with even a little gravel included for good measure.
The little car soaked it all up in stride. It has a well-judged ride and power from the inline four is adequate for the usage patterns of most singles or young couples. If there is any grip about its dynamic repertoire it’s that the auto’ transmission could use another gear, or two. That would help drop the engine speed on the open road making it quieter and more frugal.
Summary
SASA has been one of the breakthrough success stories of the SA automotive market these last few years. As buyers feel the pinch of a sluggish economy any brand that offers high value-for-money propositions is going to do well. And that is exactly what the bulk of Suzuki’s range offers, value for money.
The Suzuki Fronx is yet another solid product that is offered at an appealing price. Factor in its standout appearance and good level of specification, it’s likely that we are going to see quite a few of these around soon.
Suzuki Fronx Pricing
GL manual – R279 900
GL automatic – R299 900
GLX manual – R315 900
GLX automatic – R335 900
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