The “Toyota Fronx” Exists, And May Arrive In 2024!

The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get cosmetic and badging differences inside and out as seen on other shared models between Toyota and Maruti

• It will be the fifth shared model between Toyota and Maruti.

• Toyota could benefit from having its own Fronx as its new sub-4m ‘SUV’ offering.

• Will likely share its engine options with the Maruti Fronx, including the CNG powertrain.

• It’s also expected to have the Fronx’ features including the 9-inch touchscreen and auto AC.

• Launch expected in 2024, with prices likely to start from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).

By now, you must have noticed the few models being introduced are cross-badged products as part of the Maruti Suzuki-Toyota alliance. Some popular names include the Maruti Grand Vitara-Toyota Hyryder SUVs and the more recent duo of the Toyota Innova Hycross-based Maruti Invicto premium MPV. It has now come to the fore that Toyota will launch its own version of the Maruti Fronx, sometime in 2024.

Why Does Toyota Need A Fronx?

One of the main reasons for Toyota to offer a rebadged Fronx that it lacks a sub-4m SUV in its Indian portfolio. In contrast, its alliance partner – Maruti Suzuki – has two models in this category, making its SUV range more accessible with a potential starting price well under the Rs 10 lakh mark.

To recap, Toyota did previously offer its own version of the Maruti Vitara Brezza called the Urban Cruiser, but it was discontinued towards the end of 2022. Currently, the Toyota SUV range directly starts from the Urban Cruiser Hyryder compact SUV with a starting price beyond Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

A Familiar Treatment

The Toyota-badged Fronx will likely get a few cosmetic and badge differences inside and out over Maruti’s crossover SUV as seen on some shared products between the two carmakers like the Baleno-Glanza and the Innova Hycross-Invicto duo. The most prominent visual changes are expected to be the grille, headlights, and interior colour scheme.

Also Read: 5 Key Differences Between The Maruti Invicto And Toyota Innova Hycross

Powertrain Details Of The Maruti Fronx

The Maruti Fronx’ 1-litre turbo-petrol engine comes with mild-hybrid technology. We expect Toyota’s version of the Fronx to come with the same set of powertrains, while the CNG variants might be launched later.

A Shared Features List

We expect the Toyota-badged Fronx to come with a near-identical equipment list as the Maruti crossover SUV. This includes a 9-inch touchscreen, a heads-up display, auto climate control, and cruise control. Its safety net is also likely to include up to six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat anchorages and electronic stability programme (ESP). It helps that nearly all of these features are also offered on the Baleno-Glanza hatchbacks.

Also Read: Upping The Coolness Quotient Quite Literally: Cars With Dual Zone Climate Control Under Rs 30 Lakh

Price And Rivals

We expect Toyota to price its version of the Fronx from Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Its rivals will include the Maruti Fronx, Citroen C3 and other sub-4m SUVs such as the Kia Sonet, Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza and Hyundai Venue.

Read More on : Maruti FRONX AMT