Maruti Suzuki Fronx

The Fronx is Maruti Suzuki's coupe-styled crossover that sits on the Baleno's platform but adopts a chunkier, raised stance and split-headlamp face. Sold through the premium Nexa network, it targets buyers who want the visual drama of an SUV without stepping up to bigger, costlier models. Its headline act is the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo-petrol, a rarity in this price band, paired with sensible cabin tech and Maruti's well-known running costs.

On the road, the Fronx splits cleanly into two characters depending on engine choice. The naturally aspirated 1.2-litre is the easygoing, frugal option suited to city commuting and budget-minded buyers, while the 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbo transforms the car with genuine mid-range urge that makes overtaking and highway cruising effortless. The turbo paired with the six-speed torque-converter automatic is the sweet spot, feeling more eager than most rivals in the segment, though the gearbox can be hesitant when you demand sudden kickdown.

Inside, the cabin is lifted largely from the Baleno, which is both a strength and a limitation. The nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, wireless charging and a 360-degree camera are welcome at this price. However, the all-black dashboard uses hard plastics, and there is no sunroof on any variant, an omission rivals exploit heavily. Rear-seat space is adequate for two adults but the sloping coupe roofline eats into headroom for taller passengers.

Ride and handling are tuned for comfort rather than sportiness. The suspension soaks up broken city roads competently and the light steering makes parking easy, though at highway speeds the car feels slightly nervous over undulations and the steering offers little feedback. The 190mm ground clearance helps over speed breakers and rough patches, but this is a crossover for image and efficiency, not off-road ability, since all variants are front-wheel drive only.

Where the Fronx makes its strongest case is ownership cost. Real-world efficiency in the low-to-mid twenties kmpl, Maruti's vast service network, cheap spares and strong resale value make it one of the most rational buys in its bracket. The trade-off is a four-star Global NCAP safety rating that, while decent, trails some newer rivals, and a feature list that misses a few segment talking points.