Nothing about the Fronx’s body looks like a Suzuki except for the grille, and that’s actually a good thing. Designed by Maruti Suzuki’s Indian subsidiary, the Fronx is a subcompact crossover that is more stylish than the defunct Swift. It features a sleek exterior that is further enhanced by the Ice Grayish Pearl Metallic body, complemented by a Cool Black Pearl Metallic roof and sharp streaks on the angular fenders. Throw in roof rails, a rear spoiler, black 16-inch wheels, wraparound body cladding, silver front and rear skid plates, and it has an eye-catching package that elicited double-takes from people as I drove by.

It isn’t just all looks for the Fronx. It comes with full LED lighting (auto headlamps, daytime running lamps, rear combination lights), ventilated front disc brakes, MacPherson struts in front for better handling and comfort, and torsion beams at the rear for durability and superior load-carrying efficiency.

The color and design of the Fronx is something that won’t grow old quickly. I loved seeing it in the garage and approaching it in a full parking lot. Suzukis are known for boxy, versatile models, and the arrival of the Fronx changes all that with its shape and stance.

Surprisingly, despite the low ceiling, it is pretty easy to step into the cockpit. It is compact, like being in a sports car, but without the cramped feeling. Plus, the driver-centric layout is guaranteed to put a smile on anyone in the driver’s seat. The elaborate dashboard isn’t padded, but there are plenty of leather surfaces, including the door panels, seats, and multi-function steering wheel (with paddle shifters).

It was refreshing to see typical controls and buttons, and not dig through a menu tree to find the temperature switch. Suzuki could improve the nine-inch HD touch display by using one without a thick black border to make the GUI look more engaging, but at least it has wireless CarPlay. It only has six speakers, but the audio sounds like it is coming from a high-end model, as it fills up the interior very nicely. Devices can connect via Bluetooth and USB ports (two in front and at the rear).

Some of the things I liked include the snug fit of the bolstered seats, a vibrant analog instrument cluster, a wireless charging pad, and rear air vents (aircon also easily cooled the cabin while set at 24 degrees). The limited cabin real estate means there are fewer storage spaces, and the ones there are really small. The trunk can accommodate 304-liters with the seats up and 605-liters behind the front seats.

Powering the Fronx is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing and a 12-volt mild hybrid system. It sends 100-PS and 135-Nm of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Over the course of seven days and through city streets and expressways, it returned 15.8 km/l.

Without drive modes, the mild hybrid’s functions are relegated to improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and assisting in various functions such as acceleration. There was no palpable, head-snapping torque, even when I floored the throttle. The reactive steering and excellent turning radius more than made up for the lack of Nm. It handles great through traffic, easily fits around tight confines, and was absolutely enjoyable around corners. Comfort is outstanding because of the vehicle’s balance and excellent insulation from road noise, vibration, and harshness.

The Fronx SGX range-topping variant is the only trim level with Suzuki Safety Support, which means it has Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Weaving Alert, Automatic High Beam, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Crossing Traffic Alert, Dual Sensor Brake Support, and Adaptive Cruise Control. The implementation is smooth, unobtrusive, and helps make the drive more comfortable and, more importantly, safer.

Sure, it won’t win any drag races, but its responsive handling and maneuverability make it such a pleasure to drive, and its driver-assistance systems help protect you and your loved ones on the road. If you’re on a budget but want the right mix of features and driver pleasures, this P1.299-million 2026 Fronx SGX makes a compelling case.