This Suzuki Fronx is a Crossover that caters to a very niche buyer segment
First, let us start by explaining the name Fronx which is a clever combination of “Frontier” and “next,” It is name that symbolises Suzuki’s ambition to pioneer a new era in compact SUVs by pushing boundaries with a bold design, advanced tech and a futuristic crossover style for a very niche segment.
The Fronx signifies moving into a “next frontier” of urban SUVs, combining the ruggedness of an SUV with coupe-like styling, hence the “x” for crossover and “Fr” for frontier.
This Suzuki has a Hybrid powertrain which means it can deliver excellent fuel efficiency with a long range ( estimated on a light throttle about 700km) and it comes with comprehensive standard safety features (ADAS, 6 airbags, 5-star ASEAN NCAP) and modern technology, making it a practical and safe choice in the Malaysian compact crossover market.
Its combination of city-friendly size (see pictures below), smooth hybrid drive and cabin space practicality resonates well with todays buyers.
Key factors to look out for:
Distinctive Design: The Fronx features a unique aerodynamic silhouette that blends a muscular character with a trendy, coupe-inspired styling, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance: Powered by a 1.5L DualJet mild-hybrid engine, the vehicle boasts excellent fuel efficiency (around 4.9–5.4 L/100km, depending on the test cycle) and a driving range of over 700 km on a single tank.
Advanced Safety Features: The Fronx has achieved a strong five-star rating from ASEAN NCAP and comes equipped with a comprehensive “Suzuki Safety Support” ADAS suite. This includes features like Dual Sensor Brake Support, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and six airbags, which provide peace of mind to drivers.
Technology and Interior Comfort: The cabin offers a premium feel with a modern layout, including a 9-inch HD touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Head-Up Display (HUD), a 360-degree camera, and a wireless charging pad.
Practicality and Versatility: Despite its compact urban-friendly size, it offers a surprisingly roomy cabin, a practical boot space (304 litres), and a generous 170 mm ground clearance, making it suitable for various driving conditions and everyday use.
Ignite the engine and driving the Fronx Hybrid can be best described as a fun, smooth and with nimble handling with comfort, strong fuel economy from its mild-hybrid system and good with paddle shifters making it agile in the city and capable on highways. The cabin is well insulated with very good NVH, providing for a quieter and more relaxing everyday city traffic drive.
It offers a balanced feel with responsive steering and linear power, feeling more premium and engaging than expected for its class, especially in winding roads where its sporty hatchback-like dynamics shine. The steering is light in the city, making it effortless to manoeuvre in tight parking spots or take U-turns.
The Suzuki Fronx Hybrid powertrain is a 1.5L K15C Dualjet mild-hybrid engine with a 12V ISG motor working with a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a 12V lithium-ion battery, providing efficiency and torque assist.
Key Hybrid Features
Mild Hybrid System (SHVS): This is not a full hybrid system; the electric motor cannot power the car on its own. Instead, it uses a compact and lightweight 12V lithium-ion battery and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).
Integrated Starter Generator (ISG): The ISG acts as both a generator and an electric motor. It assists the engine during acceleration, where fuel consumption is typically high, thereby improving fuel efficiency.
Regenerative Braking: The system efficiently converts kinetic energy generated during deceleration and braking into electrical energy, which is then used to charge the 10Ah lithium-ion battery.
Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS): The system automatically stops the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt (like at a traffic light) and restarts it smoothly and quietly using the ISG, further enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
DualJet Engine Technology: The K15C engine uses advanced features like dual fuel injectors, a high compression ratio, dual variable valve timing (VVT), and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) to optimize combustion and thermal efficiency.
This powertrain is designed primarily to maximise efficiency and provide engine assist during high-demand situations, offering a driving range of over 700 km on a single tank of fuel.
This Suzuki Fronx main segment rivals are B-segment SUVs such as the Honda WR-V, Perodua Ativa and Chery Tiggo Cross, with key feature differences lying in powertrain technology, specific ADAS features and interior dimensions.
Visit a NAZA Eastern showroom and test drive this Fronx before looking elsewhere. By the way, in case you were wondering, the Suzuki Fronx comes with a 3-year/100,000 km vehicle warranty and a 5-year/100,000 km hybrid battery warranty from Naza Eastern Motors.
Suzuki Fronx Hybrid Specifications:
Engine: 1.5-litre K15C Mild Hybrid (MHEV)
Displacement: 1462cc
Transmission: 6-speed auto with paddle-shift
Max power: 103PS at 6000rpm
Max torque: 138Nm at 4400rpm
Hybrid System: 12V Integrated Starter Generator & 10Ah Lithium-ion battery
Top Speed: 180km/h
Fuel Consumption: 700+km
Price: RM147,888.00
