04 Jul 2025
Fronx Sets a New Benchmark for Compact SUVs in NZ
Styled in Japan, built in India, superbly equipped and keenly priced, the new Suzuki Fronx mild hybrid is making a strong statement.
Fronx is not only a new name for Suzuki but also an ideally sized compact SUV package, falling neatly in overall length between the Swift hatchback, Ignis SUV and Vitara SUV models.
Fronx is a hit in India with buyers loving the styling and overall package. More than 100,000 were sold in ten months and the Fronx soon became the top selling new car in India with total sales already exceeding 300,000. Introduced in Japan late last year, the model received over three times the targeted monthly sales volume.
It was named Subcompact SUV of the year in India and was also a finalist in the urban car category for the 2024 world car awards. Maruti Suzuki, the highly successful Indian manufacturer for the brand, spent the equivalent of more than NZ$1.75 billion developing the Fronx.
“As a compact SUV, the top grade Fronx is set to make a significant impression in the New Zealand market,” said Aaron Wales, Automobile Sales Manager for Suzuki New Zealand. “The car is packed with new specification and is the most well equipped Suzuki model ever offered here.”
“Starting at a special introductory price of $29,990, the Fronx is set to shake up the compact SUV segment with market-leading features at this price point. Highlights include a head-up display, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, heated front seats, and an electric parking brake - all part of an impressively lengthy spec list. Additionally, the full suite of Suzuki’s active safety features is included,” he said.
“The contrasting black and burgundy interior gives a premium impression and the seats have a three-dimensional contour. Silver trim in the cabin and door handles is complimented with leather-like inserts on the doors,” said Wales.
“The selection of this combination of materials speaks to the vehicle’s sophisticated and luxurious interior finish.”
The self-charging Fronx is already proving a highly economical car with its 12-volt lithium ion battery paired with Suzuki’s Hybrid ISG (Integrated Starter Generator) system that combines so well with the 1,462 cc engine and six stage automatic transmission.
An independent 200 kilometres test in the Auckland region, covering city, urban, motorway and country roads resulted in an impressive overall fuel consumption of 4.7 litres/100 km. The Suzuki is capable of a range of more than 700 kilometres from its 37 litre fuel tank. Another advantage for the Fronx is the ability to run on 91 octane fuel or higher.
The official combined fuel consumption is 5.4 litres/100 km while emissions are a very low 125 g/km (3P-WLTP) making the Fronx not only easy on the wallet but also considerably more efficient than key competitors in the compact SUV segment.
Open road cruising is a breeze, the gearing makes open-road cruising feel effortless and refined. At 80 km/h the engine is turning at around 1,600 rpm, rising to little more than a quiet and relaxed 2,000 revs at 100 km/h.
Five years after the launch of the Swift Hybrid, Suzuki has long been highly regarded for producing fuel efficient cars and the arrival of the roomy and refined Fronx further enhances this reputation.
Not only that, this latest Suzuki challenger embodies a high degree of refinement in terms of ride, noise and vibration. Harshness has been suppressed while the steering is light and offers good feedback and engagement. The generous 170 mm ground clearance also reflects the practicality of the design.
The Fronx is a well-rounded crossover that stands out for its generous standard features, effortless drive, and striking design.
For further information please contact:
Suzuki New Zealand Automotive Marketing Team