A new cut-price SUV is headed to Australia.
Suzuki Australia has confirmed the arrival of the new Fronx pint-sized SUV, which will compete against vehicles such as the Kia Stonic and Hyundai Venue.
It will fill the void left by the little cheap and cheerful Baleno hatchback that exited the Australian market in the past year. The Fronx will sit alongside the Suzuki Ignis in the light SUV segment.
The little Fronx SUV will feature coupe-styling with a sloping roofline and come with must-have items such as a heads-up display, wireless device charging pad and a bird’s-eye view camera.
Suzuki will reveal more Australian details closer to the vehicle’s launch date but overseas the Fronx comes with the choice of two small petrol engines – a 1.2-litre four-cylinder and a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine with mild hybrid tech.
Michael Pachota, general manager of Suzuki cars, says the arrival of the Fronx will help fortify the brand’s position in the light SUV segment.
“With the launch of the all new Fronx, we’re combining unique sporty styling with SUV heritage, to deliver an exciting new product to our line-up,” says Pachota.
“Not only solidifying our presence in the Light SUV segment, this vehicle will also open the doors to younger buyers looking to upgrade from a smaller hatchback to an SUV.”
Suzuki is looking to grab a sizeable chunk of the lower end of the market as mainstream players such as Hyundai, Honda, Mazda and Toyota either cut models or raise prices on entry level vehicles.
The Japanese brand also faces stiff competition from a wave of new Chinese brands such as MG that are now dominating the lower end of the market.
Suzuki Australia also confirmed the arrival of the five-door Jimny four-wheel drive.
The current three-door version has been a red-hot hit with Aussies. Long waiting times have resulted in owners selling near-new examples for thousands more than brand new.
“Jimny has built an absolute cult following in Australia and will only continue to grow with a new breed of followers that need the extra space,” says Pachota.