The India-made Maruti Suzuki Fronx will be equipped with ADAS, AWD in Japan;

Maruti Suzuki, which has long exported Suzuki and Toyota-branded vehicles made in India to several countries, has started exporting the India-made Fronx to Japan. The SUV for the Japanese market will be equipped with a 1.5-liter petrol engine, just like the Fronx sold in other export markets; the model sold in India does not have this engine. While the SUV is available only with front-wheel drive option in other foreign markets, the model made in Japan will also offer Suzuki’s AllGrip Select AWD technology, among other special amenities.

Earlier this month, Japan began accepting bookings for the Fronx, and more than 700 units have been booked so far. The official launch date for the SUV is October 16, and deliveries are expected to start in the second half of October. According to Maruti Suzuki, the first batch of shipments will include 1,600 Fronx models produced in India.

Also read: India-made Maruti Suzuki Fronx exports to Japan begin; over 1,600 units shipped

Japanese Suzuki Fronx: Powertrain options

Like all other Fronx models exported overseas, the model destined for Japan is manufactured at the SMG (Suzuki Motor Group) plant in Gujarat. The Fronx model destined for the Japanese market is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine with mild-hybrid technology. The Fronx model sold in South Africa has the same configuration. There are two transmission options: a five-speed manual and a torque converter automatic with paddle shifters.

The car has no exterior “AllGrip” badging, and only higher trims come with AllGrip Select AWD technology. Suzuki’s mid-range AWD technology, AllGrip Select, sits below AllGrip Pro and above AllGrip Auto. The Grand Vitara sold in our country uses this setup. There are four “off-road” modes for driver control: Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock. Buttons on the center console are used to control the electronic control system. Depending on road conditions and driver input, Sport and Snow modes adjust the throttle and deliver power to the rear wheels as needed. The Fronx AWD’s suspension system is also unique, with a modified rear torsion beam configuration to support the AWD system.

Also read: Maruti Suzuki S-Presso and Alto K10 come standard with Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Japanese Suzuki Fronx: Interior and feature updates

The Japan-spec Fronx comes with extra features beyond the engine and transmission, most notably the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which includes autonomous emergency braking and lane keeping assist. Other features include front parking sensors, an electronic parking brake (EPB) with hill hold, automatic cruise control and heated seats. In addition to the equipment, the Japan-spec model also features a new interior theme with a chic color scheme of dark brown and plum, and plenty of soft-touch materials on the door pads and other surfaces. The two-tone upholstery on the seats combines faux leather and fabric upholstery for a sophisticated and elegant effect. The upscale ambience is further enhanced by piano black finishes on the center console, steering wheel and door handles.