Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: What's Different

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx has been the most anticipated car in India since its debut at the Auto Expo 2023. Several videos have surfaced online showing its arrival at showrooms, which suggests that the launch of the model in the Indian market is quite close. Recently, Maruti Suzuki revealed the upcoming model's fuel efficiency figures at the Fronx media drive. The crossover's engine and features are already known to us, and now we have access to its mileage information too. In terms of market competition, the crossover will go against vehicles such as the Baleno, Toyota Glanza, and Tata Altroz. Before this crossover hits the market, let's see how the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Fronx fares against its sibling, the Baleno, in terms of engine, size, and other features. 

Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: Design

The Fronx has a coupe-crossover appearance. The Baleno, on the other hand, is a high-end hatchback. The Fronx features a bigger grille, dual headlights, and LED headlamps, with LED DRLs and turn indicators located on the top. Moreover, it also features 360-degree reverse cameras. The Baleno gets a more streamlined front grille, LED fog lamps, and a set of LED headlamps with built-in LED DRLs. The Fronx does not have chrome handles, unlike the Baleno. It gets door knobs that match the body colour. However, both cars have similar rearview mirrors, with cameras at the rear.

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Fronx Review: Is it just a Baleno in Grand Vitara's Clothing?

Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: Dimensions

Dimensionally, the Fronx is larger than the Baleno – it is 50 mm taller, 20mm wider, and 5mm longer than the premium hatchback. The wheelbase of each model, however, is the same, at 2520mm. Now, while the Baleno gets 318 litres of boot space (petrol) / NA (CNG), the Fronx has a slightly smaller boot, at 308 litres. In terms of weight, the Baleno is lighter than the upcoming crossover. The Fronx weighs 965kgs, while the heaviest version of the Baleno weighs 960kgs. Although the 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels on both cars are the same size, their designs are very different.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: Interior 

Inside, the upcoming crossover mirrors the Baleno – the Fronx gets a dual-tone cabin with a 9.0-inch free-floating SmartPlay infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection. Other similar features include an automatic climate control system, steering-mounted controls, a wireless car charger, and six airbags.

Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: Engine & Mileage Details  

A 1.2-litre K12 naturally-aspirated petrol engine powers both the Maruti Suzuki Fronx and the Baleno, with similar power and torque figures and available gearbox options. The Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine, which made its debut in India in 2017 in the previous-generation Baleno, will make a comeback with the Fronx and will produce 99bhp and 148Nm. It will get Maruti's SHVS mild hybrid technology. The Fronx's fuel efficiency ratings are identical to those of its hatchback counterpart, the Baleno. However, the sole distinction is that the Fronx offers a turbo-petrol option, which is marginally less efficient, about 2km/l, than the other vehicles. 

Also Read: New Maruti Suzuki Jimny, Fronx Reach 40,000 Bookings in India

Maruti Suzuki Fronx vs Baleno: Price

The price of the Baleno begins from Rs 6.61 lakh and goes up to Rs 9.88 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom Delhi. The cost of the Fronx is yet to be revealed in India; however, it is expected to be somewhere between Rs 10 lakh and Rs 14 Lakh (ex-showroom).