Japan's Made-in-India Suzuki Fronx Gets Bigger Engine & All-Wheel-Drive

Published: Thursday, August 22, 2024, 11:40 [IST]

Maruti Suzuki has begun exporting the India-made Fronx to Japan, where it features several enhancements over the Indian model. Unlike the Indian version, the Japanese Fronx is equipped with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and Suzuki's AllGrip Select AWD technology. This advanced AWD system is exclusive to higher trims and offers four driving modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.

The Fronx for Japan also includes a mild hybrid system similar to the one in South Africa's model. It comes with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters. The suspension setup has been modified to accommodate the AWD system, featuring a unique rear torsion beam layout.

Suzuki Fronx for Japan: Interior and Features

The interior of the Japanese Fronx boasts a dark brown and plum theme, using soft-touch materials on door pads and other areas. The door handles, steering wheel, and centre console have a piano black finish. The seats feature a dual-tone mix of faux leather and cloth in plum and black, giving the cabin a premium look.

Additional features include an ADAS suite with lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. Front parking sensors, an electronic parking brake with hill-hold function, automatic cruise control, and heated seats are also part of the package. These enhancements make the Japanese Fronx more advanced than its counterparts in other markets.

Suzuki Fronx for Japan: Engine and Transmission

The Japanese-spec Fronx is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with mild hybrid technology. This engine option is not available in the Indian market but is present in other export markets like South Africa. Customers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed torque converter automatic gearbox that includes paddle shifters for manual control.

The AllGrip Select AWD system is electronically controlled via buttons on the centre console. It provides driver control through four modes: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock. These modes adjust throttle settings and power distribution to the rear wheels based on road conditions and driver input.

Suzuki Fronx for Japan: Booking and Launch Details

Bookings for the Fronx in Japan began earlier this month, with over 700 reservations already made. The SUV will officially go on sale on October 16th. According to Maruti Suzuki, the initial shipment to Japan included 1,600 units of the made-in-India Fronx.

Deliveries are expected to start in the second half of October. This marks another milestone for Maruti Suzuki as it continues to expand its global footprint by exporting models from India to various international markets.

In summary, while the Indian market does not yet have access to these advanced features, Maruti Suzuki's export strategy ensures that customers in Japan receive a more feature-rich version of the Fronx. This includes enhanced safety features like ADAS and convenience features such as heated seats and an electronic parking brake.