The Suzuki Fronx is here to battle the Toyota Raize and Kia Sonet, price starts at Php 1.059M

After a lengthy publicity campaign, including advance previews and test drives for select members of the motoring media beat, Suzuki Philippines has officially launched the Fronx, its newest subcompact crossover offering for our market.

This marks the return of the Japanese automaker in the crossover market, aiming to compete directly with the likes of the Toyota Raize, Kia Sonet, and recently reintroduced Hyundai Venue.

The Suzuki Fronx is available in four variants across three model grades:

• Fronx 1.5 GL A/T – Php 1,059,000
• Fronx 1.5 GLX A/T Hybrid – Php 1,219,000
• Fronx 1.5 GLX A/T Hybrid Two-Tone – Php 1,229,000
• Fronx 1.5 SGX A/T Hybrid Two-Tone – Php 1,299,000

Although not a direct replacement as it’s in different size and price categories, the Fronx fills in the gap left by the Vitara when it was discontinued locally a few years ago. It measures at 3,995mm long, 1,765mm wide, and 1,550mm tall.

In terms of looks, the Fronx takes on a slightly different design approach compared to what we’re used to from their other models.

The front fascia features slim daytime running lights with a tri-bar signature on the upper portion, connected by a chrome bar on the front grille. The tri-beam headlights are on the bumper, and the rear features a full width light bar, also with a tri-bar signature. Front and rear faux skid plates add a rugged touch.

Inside, it’s a more familiar place, taking some cues from models such as the Dzire A-segment sedan with its sleek appearance, floating-style infotainment screen, and three-spoke steering wheel shared with other models. It’s also visibly more premium with plenty of soft-touch surfaces around.

The standard equipment list is quite expansive for the Suzuki Fronx, regardless of variant.

Even on the entry-level GL trim, it already features multi-reflector LED headlights with automatic function, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, power-folding side mirrors, 16-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, an analog gauge cluster, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system.

Moving up to the GLX Hybrid trims add a 4.2-inch multi-info display, paddle shifters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a larger nine-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, and push button start. 

Going for the top-spec SGX Hybrid variant gives you blacked-out wheels, synthetic leather seats, telescopic steering column adjustment, a heads-up display, and a wireless phone charger.

As for colors, there are four available exterior paint job options. All variants can be had in Snow White Pearl, while exclusive to the GLX Hybrid and SGX Hybrid are Savannah Ivory Metallic and Ice Grayish Blue. Meanwhile, Magma Gray Metallic is exclusive to the GL and GLX Hybrid. GLX Hybrid Two-tone and SGX Hybrid Two-tone variants also come with a Cool Black Pearl Metallic finish for the roof and pillars. All of these are then matched to a Black and Burgundy interior color scheme.

Two powertrain options are available for the Suzuki Fronx, depending on the variant, with the base GL getting a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine (K15B) that makes 105 horsepower and 138Nm of torque, mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Meanwhile, the GLX Hybrid and SGX Hybrid variants both get a mild-hybrid powertrain despite being marketed as hybrids. That’s a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (K15C), paired to Suzuki’s SHVS system which is composed of a 2.2kW electric motor and 0.12kWh lithium-ion battery. This produces a total 101 horsepower and 135Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

In the safety department, all variants come with six airbags, side impact door beams, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), hill hold control, electronic stability program, brake assist, and rear parking sensors. GL and GLX Hybrid variants come with a reverse camera, while the SGX Hybrid comes with a 360-degree camera.

The Fronx is also the first Suzuki in our market to be equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). Exclusive to the SGX Hybrid trim, the suite includes adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and prevention, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert.

Now that’s probably a lot to take in, and with Suzuki Philippines targeting some very strong-selling and established rival models, it looks like they won’t be having any difficulty in the battle. Do you think it has what it takes to become a top-seller in the highly competitive budget subcompact crossover segment?

_{Photos from Suzuki}