Maruti Fronx Facelift To Get ADAS: New Spy Shots From India
The Maruti Fronx now has a strong foothold in the Indian market. Originally launched in 2023 as a crossover based on the Baleno, it is set to receive a mid-life update this year. The facelift is expected to bring several new features, including Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS). Earlier, a test mule was spotted with ADAS calibration equipment, on public roads. Now, another mule, equipped with similar testing hardware, has been seen in Gurugram, further confirming the addition of this feature.
These spy images were shared on Team-BHP by a user. They show the rear view of a Fronx driving on a highway in Gurugram. A mount for ADAS testing equipment is visible on the roof, while what appears to be a sensor or camera can be seen on the rear bumper.
The user who posted the images claims to have spoken to an engineer involved in the testing. According to him, the engineer confirmed that the vehicle was being tested for ADAS. The user also mentioned noticing a ‘lane change assist’ function in the mirror. This is likely the Blind Spot Warning system, which is typically part of most ADAS packages.
Suzuki already makes versions of the Fronx, equipped with level 2 ADAS for export markets. Extensive testing points to the possibility of the carmaker recalibrating the ADAS suite for Indian road and traffic conditions. This will only make the overall experience better. India’s peculiar road and traffic conditions demand ADAS sensitivity and responses to be calibrated in a particular way.
That said, ADAS is now becoming increasingly popular in the country. Adoption has increased significantly in the recent past. In Maruti Suzuki’s lineup, the Victoris and eVitara already come equipped with this feature. In the future, we expect it to become standard across the portfolio- just like ABS and airbags.
On the design front, Maruti Suzuki is likely to take a balanced approach. The Fronx already has a design that appeals to many. The updated version will likely come with a different set of wheels and minor cosmetic tweaks. Inside, it will see the addition of ventilated seats, level 2 ADAS and several other features. Even the outgoing Fronx comes well-equipped. The biggest change will, however, be on the mechanical front.
The outgoing version of Fronx comes with two engine options- 1.0L, three-cylinder turbo-petrol and 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol with Dual-Jet technology. However, in some international markets, it is also offered with a 1.5L mild hybrid engine. Maruti Suzuki is now working on a new hybrid powertrain.
From what we know, the facelift will get a series hybrid setup. In this system, the wheels will always be driven by the electric motor. The engine will work as a generator to produce electricity which will be used to charge the battery pack. The battery pack, in turn, will power the electric motor. Also called the ‘Range Extender system’, this setup will be more efficient and cost effective than conventional strong hybrids. These will also be easier to manufacture and maintain.
Details of the series hybrid setup haven’t been disclosed officially. It is, however, expected to have the Z12E naturally aspirated petrol engine at the centre of the system. The series hybrid setup is claimed to deliver a fuel efficiency of around 35 kpl.
When launched, the updated Fronx will compete with the likes of Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO.