Production of the classic Suzuki SX4 model ended in 2014. Sales of the SX4 S-Cross ended in Japan in 2020. And Sales of the Vitara (as the Escudo) ended in Japan in 2024.
Although there is no direct successor to the SX4 line in Japan, the Suzuki Fronx has been considered its replacement since 2024.
The Suzuki Fronx is a model produced by Maruti Suzuki India. At slightly under four meters long (3995mm), it is an important size for the Indian market (with 1.2L NA or 1.0L Turbo engines).
The JDM version has a Suzuki K15C I4 engine, naturally aspirated (NA), Dualjet?, 1.5L (101/99ps) with a 6AT and WA06A (3.1ps) electric motor (for a mild hybrid system).
The most interesting feature of the JDM Fronx is its exclusive 4WD option. Other markets only have the 2WD.
Video about the 4WD system:
The 4WD system uses an outdated viscous coupling instead of a modern, electronically controlled one.
Some disadvantages are offset by ESP.
Another video provides more information about the 2WD version:
Overall, I'm ambivalent about the Fronx. However, it boasts a rare combination today: an NA engine and a conventional AT transmission.
In the same time the Honda Fit e:HEV Crosstar 4WD is available at a similar price in Japan.
Appearance is, of course, a matter of preference, but the e:HEV is a far superior powertrain.
The Suzuki Fronx is often compared with the Honda WR-V.
Although the WR-V is bigger and only has 2WD. It also lacks an e:HEV. The Fit is similar in size to the Fronx, and its 4WD uses viscous coupling too.
See also related notes:
- All-wheel drive and viscous coupling unit (2023-02-17)
- Honda i-MMD - "двухмоторный" гибрид Fit/Jazz e:hev (2021-04-18)
- Escudo и Escudo (2015-10-16)
Yet another town SUV :)
ReplyDelete