Maruti Suzuki is preparing to introduce the Fronx strong hybrid in India, likely arriving by early 2026. This will be the first time Maruti will be using its in-house developed hybrid technology, moving away from its current dependence on Toyota’s systems.
New Hybrid System: What’s Under the Hood
The upcoming Fronx Hybrid will have a 1.2-litre Z12E petrol engine in a series hybrid setup. This engine will act as a generator, charging a small battery (1.5kWh to 2kWh), which then powers an electric motor to drive the front wheels.
- Driving Efficiency: Optimised for city traffic, this setup ensures the engine runs in its most efficient zone.
- Expected Mileage: 35+ kmpl, some estimates going up to 40 kmpl.
Key Features
The Fronx Hybrid will likely have most features from the current Fronx, along with hybrid specific additions:
- Silent Electric Start & Drive for smoother city rides
- Regenerative Braking to improve energy efficiency
- Enhanced Safety with up to 6 airbags, ESP and possibly Level 2 ADAS
- Premium Cabin with 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ display and optional sunroof
Maruti Suzuki Fronx Hybrid Expected Specs
| Feature | Expected Specification |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.2L Z12E petrol + electric motor (series hybrid) |
| Battery Capacity | 1.5kWh to 2kWh |
| Mileage | 35–40 kmpl (expected) |
| Transmission | Automatic (e-CVT or similar) |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive |
| Safety | Up to 6 airbags, ESP, ADAS (expected) |
| Infotainment | 9-inch HD touchscreen with wireless connectivity |
| Comfort Features | Auto climate control, rear AC vents |
| Estimated Launch Timeline | Q1 2026 |
| Expected Starting Price | Around ₹11.5–12 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Competition
It will rival compact SUVs such as the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Hyundai Venue, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. But none of them have a strong hybrid powertrain which will give the Fronx a big efficiency advantage in city use.
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Maruti’s Bigger Hybrid Plans
This is just the beginning. Maruti plans to launch strong hybrid versions of other mass-market models in the next few years:
- Next-gen Baleno and Swift (2026)
- New Mini MPV (2027)
- Next-gen Brezza Hybrid (2028)
Conclusion
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx Hybrid is shaping up to be a practical, fuel efficient option for Indian buyers looking for a city friendly SUV without going fully electric. With its in-house hybrid system, impressive mileage and everyday usability, it could just redefine the compact SUV space.
