Maruti Fronx Facelift Spotted Testing ADAS, New Hybrid Engine Expected

Spy Shots Suggest Maruti Fronx Facelift Could Get ADAS, Hybrid Power and New Features

The Maruti Fronx, a popular crossover first launched in 2023, is expected to get a major update this year. The facelift will bring important changes such as ADAS and a new hybrid powertrain. Recent spy shots of test vehicles on public roads have provided fresh clues about these updates.

ADAS Features Confirmed

New spy images shared by Team-BHP user shows a Fronx test vehicle in Gurugram fitted with ADAS testing equipment on the roof. A sensor or camera can also be seen on the rear bumper.

According to the person who shared the images, an engineer involved in the testing confirmed that the vehicle was being evaluated for ADAS features. The same person also noticed a 'lane change assist' function, which is likely linked to a Blind Spot Warning system that is commonly offered as part of ADAS packages.

Suzuki already sells ADAS-equipped versions of the Fronx in some export markets. The extensive testing suggests that the system is being adjusted for Indian road and traffic conditions. ADAS is also becoming more common in India, with Maruti Suzuki already offering it on models such as the Victoris and eVitara. In the future, it could become as common as ABS and airbags.

New Hybrid Engine Details

The current Fronx is available with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. In some international markets, it is also offered with a 1.5-litre mild-hybrid setup. For the facelift, Maruti Suzuki is reportedly working on a new hybrid powertrain.

Reports suggest that the updated model will use a series-hybrid system. In this setup, the wheels are always driven by an electric motor, while the petrol engine works as a generator to produce electricity. That electricity is stored in the battery pack, which then powers the motor.

Also known as a Range Extender system, this setup is expected to be more fuel-efficient and cost-effective than conventional strong-hybrid systems. It should also be easier to manufacture and maintain.

While Maruti Suzuki has not officially revealed the details yet, the system is expected to use the Z12E petrol engine. Fuel efficiency could be around 35 kmpl.

Design Changes and Competition

The Fronx already has a design that appeals to many buyers, so major styling changes are unlikely. Instead, the facelift could get a new set of alloy wheels and a few cosmetic updates.

Inside, buyers can expect features such as ventilated seats, Level 2 ADAS and other equipment upgrades. However, the biggest changes will be under the skin with the addition of new technology and the hybrid powertrain.

Once launched, the updated Fronx will continue to rival the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon and Mahindra XUV 3XO.

More Than Just A Facelift

On the surface, the Fronx facelift looks like a routine update with a few new features and a refreshed design. But the bigger story could be under the bonnet. If reports are accurate, this will be the first Maruti Suzuki model to use the company's new series-hybrid system, making it one of the brand's most important launches in recent years.

The significance goes beyond the Fronx itself. Industry reports suggest the same hybrid setup is also being developed for future models such as the next-generation Baleno, an updated Swift and a new MPV. That means the Fronx could be the first step in Maruti's plan to bring hybrid technology to a much larger part of its lineup.

ADAS is another update that could make a difference. Several rivals already offer advanced driver assistance features, and adding them to the Fronx would remove one of the few areas where the SUV currently trails some of its competitors. If both the hybrid powertrain and ADAS reach production, the Fronx facelift could become much more than a regular mid-cycle update.