Maruti Suzuki Fronx Long Term Review, December 2023 Report

This month with the Maruti Suzuki Fronx has been one of revelations and gentle reminders. It started with a call from Maruti Suzuki regarding the service of the Fronx, making me realise that I had spent over five months with the car. Reviewing my earlier reports, one thing stood out – mileage. Throughout my time with the Fronx, the mileage, according to the onboard computer, hovered around the 11 – 12km/l mark. And given that our test unit features Smart Hybrid Technology, I expected this number to be higher. A change in driving style was perhaps needed, and that’s exactly what I did over the last month.

For reference, I usually fuel up the tank to the full and drive it until the reserve light turns on, which usually happens after about 350km. After changing some driving habits, this distance went to about 550km – a mileage of 17.5km/l, according to the on-board display. This increase in the range and efficiency is to the tune of about 50 per cent! And with the fuel prices where they are today, and given that I have clocked over 5000km with the car so far, the savings are indeed substantial.

So, what changes did I make? The biggest was reducing the throttle input in everyday driving. Restricting the throttle to no more than 30%, unless a quick manoeuvre was required, allowed the Fronx to move smoothly without any resistance. I also found that while driving this way, the torque converter automatic gearbox would upshift at just about 1,800 –1,900rpm with just a slight blip to the throttle input. Sure, as I have mentioned earlier, the Fronx turbo really comes into its own after the 2,000rpm mark, the revelation this month was that there is a different side to the Fronx if driven below that mark. One, that is easier on the wallet by a huge margin. Now, I find myself in a conundrum – shall I listen to the mind and drive efficiently in the coming month or listen to the heart and succumb to the allure of that turbo power? Perhaps, it would have been better if I didn’t know how efficient the Fronx can be – ignorance can really be bliss sometimes!  

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Fronx Long Term Review, November 2023 Report

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Fronx Long Term Review, October 2023 Report