Previewed at the 2023 Auto Expo, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is the carmaker’s latest sub-4-metre utility vehicle that is expected to go on sale next month. Pre-launch bookings for the Fronx are already underways, and as per the brand, it is getting around 250-300 takers every day, which is a huge number. When launched, it could pose a serious threat to Tata’s highly sought-after micro-SUV, the Punch.
Here’s take a closer look at how these two SUV-styled models compare on paper.
Powertrain
| Maruti Suzuki Fronx | Tata Punch | |
| Engine | 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol / 1-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol | 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol |
| No of Cylinders | 4 / 3 | 3 |
| Max Power | 90PS / 100PS | 86PS |
| Peak Torque | 113Nm / 149Nm | 113Nm |
| Gearbox | 5-speed Manual and AMT / 5-speed Manual and 6-speed Auto | 5-speed Manual / AMT |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel-Drive | Front-Wheel-Drive |
| Mileage | Yet-to-be-revealed | 18.97 kmpl (Manual), 18.82kmpl (AMT) |
- Both the Tata Punch and Maruti Fronx offer a 1.2-litre petrol motor, with the same gearbox choices. But the Fronx has a more sophisticated 4-cylinder unit that also delivers better power output.
- There is also the option of a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with the Fronx, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a more refined 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
- Both the SUVs are front-wheel driven.
Also Read: Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV – Price Comparison
Dimensions
| Maruti Fronx | Tata Punch | |
| Length | 3,995 mm | 3,827 mm |
| Width | 1,765 mm | 1,742 mm |
| Height | 1,550 mm | 1,615 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,445 mm |
| Ground Clearance | – | 187 mm |
| Boot Space | 308 litres | 366 litres (as per ISO V215) / 319 litres (as per ISO 210) |
- The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is longer, wider and has a more elongated wheelbase, which should result in more generous cabin space when compared to the Tata SUV.
- The Punch has bigger boot space for your travel requirements.
Also Read: Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV – Specs and Features Comparison
Features
| Common | Additional Features in Fronx | Additional Features in Punch |
| – Split headlamp setup – Automatic headlamps – LED DRLs – Alloy wheels – Wheel arch cladding – Push-button start/stop – Floating touchscreen unit – Apple Carplay & Android Auto – Auto AC – Powered ORVMs – Height-adjustable driver’s seat – Cruise control – ABS with EBD – Rear defogger – Rearview camera | – LED headlamps – Connected LED taillamps – Front skid plate – A bigger touchscreen infotainment (9-inch) – Wireless smartphone connectivity for Apple Carplay and Android Auto – Wireless charger – Paddle shifters – 360 degree surround view system – Heads-up display (HUD) – Rear AC vents – ARKAMYS tuned premium sound system – Electrochromic IRVM – Electronic Stability Control (ESC) – Up to Six airbags (4 airbags standard) | – Front fog lamps – Harman premium sound system – Semi-digital instrument cluster – Rear seat armrest – Cooled glovebox |
Both the Fronx and Punch are well-equipped and offer most of what you need. But the Fronx delivers a more superior experience because of its additional comfort & convenience features.
Also Read: Toyota Innova Crysta Diesel vs Innova Hycross Petrol – Price Comparison
Price
| Maruti Fronx | Tata Punch |
| Rs 8 – 13.5 lakh (Expected) | Rs 6 – 9.54 lakh |
Verdict
Maruti Suzuki has left no stone unturned to make the Fronx a solid offering. A premium experience is what the Indo-Japanese carmaker wants to offer with the Fronx.
