The Maruti Fronx facelift has been spotted with some exterior design changes from the current model and a couple of new safety features. The Fronx is based on the Baleno, which got a facelift in September that brought a new 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine and some additional features. Some of these changes, if not all, are expected to trickle down to the facelifted Fronx..
- Test mule features a new grille, likely with an ADAS sensor, and rear disc brakes
- Lighting elements are similar to those of the current model, but bumpers could be new
Maruti Fronx facelift spied: Design changes spotted
New grille, ADAS sensor, front parking sensors, rear disc brakes can be seen
The test mule features a revised grille with what looks like a radar sensor box in the centre for the advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) suite. The LED headlights and LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) appear to be identical to those on the current model. Keen-eyed viewers can also spot front parking sensors, which the current Fronx lacks. The front bumper, although heavily camouflaged, could witness some design changes.
In profile, the test mule has the same dual-tone alloy wheels as the current Fronx. A closer look, however, will reveal disc brakes on the rear wheels, which are not offered currently. Other things in the profile look identical to the current model. At the rear, the camouflage does not give a clear view of the changes. However, slightly revised lighting elements and a fresh rear bumper can be expected.
Maruti Fronx facelift: Other expected changes
Could get new features like ventilated seats and a branded sound system
While the spied mule does not offer a glimpse of the interior changes, the revisions could be similar to those on the Baleno facelift. The facelifted Fronx could get front-seat ventilation and a Clarion sound system. The dashboard is expected to be unchanged, but the seats will likely get leatherette upholstery to accommodate the ventilation function.
Baleno’s 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine could replace the existing 4-cylinder mill
Aside from additional features, the Maruti Fronx facelift could see a major change under the hood. A new Z12E 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine could replace the existing K12N 1.2-litre 4-cylinder engine, as with the Baleno. The new engine produces 83hp and 112Nm, down by 7hp and 1Nm, and will be paired with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT). A 70hp CNG option is also expected to be offered with both manual and AMT options. Despite the slight power drop, the new engine will be more fuel-efficient, as seen on the Baleno.
The 1.0-litre 3-cylinder ‘Boosterjet’ turbo-petrol engine is expected to be continued with the Fronx facelift. Currently, this engine produces 100hp and 148Nm and is offered with a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
With the facelift, the Maruti Fronx’s price is expected to be revised; the current model ranges from Rs 6.90 lakh to Rs 12.03 lakh (ex-showroom). It will continue to lock horns with compact SUVs such as the Toyota Taisor, Renault Kiger, Nissan Magnite and Citroen C3.