Suzuki Fronx MHEV launched in Malaysia

After a series of electric vehicles, it’s nice to see a conventional ICE (internal combustion engine) SUV being introduced in the Malaysian market. While EVs dominate the news, the reality is that ICE vehicles still sell in much greater numbers and are still very much in demand.

To feed this demand, Naza Eastern Motors Sdn Bhd (NEM), which has been the distributor of Suzuki vehicles in Malaysia since 2021, offers the Suzuki Fronx compact SUV (the unusual name is said to be created from ‘Frontier Next’).

The Fronx is a product developed in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki, the automaker’s Indian subsidiary but the units being imported by NEM originate from Indonesia where Suzuki has a factory in Cikarang.

A joint effort of Japanese and Indian designers, the Fronx is built on Suzuki’s latest lightweight platform and TECT body structure, which is also used for the Baleno sedan. Giving it a distinctive presence are the chrome-accented front grille, LED multi-reflector headlamps with DRLs and integrated signals, horizontal LED rear lamp, wheelarch extensions and bold skidplates front and rear.

With a length of 3995 mm in length, the Fronx is marginally shorter than the Perodua Ativa but it is wider (1765 mm in width) and also has a longer wheelbase of 2520 mm.

ASEAN NCAP assessed a Fronx at its own test facility in Melaka in September 2025 and the SUV soared 77.7 points which qualified it for the full 5-star rating overall as well as 5 stars in the key categories. Its Suzuki Safety Support is a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance System with various active safety systems.

Power comes from a 1.5-litre K15C 4-cylinder mild hybrid petrol engine which produces 103 ps/138 Nm. A mild hybrid system (MHEV) also has a small electric motor (powered by a 12V-10Ah lithium-ion battery) but it provides limited assistance to the engine to enhance torque generation. However, unlike hybrid electric vehicles, the motor itself does not ever propel the vehicle.

A mild hybrid system, which recharges the battery itself, is helpful in improving acceleration and also fuel efficiency as the motor helps reduce demands on the engine so it has to work less hard. Fuel-saving is also helped by a stop/start system. With a 37-litre fuel tank and 6-speed automatic transmission, the Fronx is claimed to have a range of over 700 kms.

Inside, the Fronx cabin has modern simplicity and driver-focused design. A 9-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) includes a display for a 360-degree camera system while the driver has a Head-Up Display as standard as well.

Other standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control and wireless charging. The rear backrests have a 60:40 division so they can be folded down individually and boot volume is up to 308 litres.

“The all-new Suzuki Fronx signifies the next phase of Suzuki’s growth in Malaysia. It blends practicality, performance, and design in a way that truly resonates with the Malaysian lifestyle. With its ASEAN NCAP 5-star rating, customers can expect both excitement and peace of mind in one beautifully crafted package,” said Mohd Rizal Jailan, CEO of NAZA Automotive Group.

“We are confident that the Fronx will attract a new generation of Malaysian drivers, those who seek individuality, safety, and style in a compact SUV. This model captures everything Suzuki stands for: quality, reliability, and excitement,” he added.

The Fronx comes with a 3-year/100,000 km vehicle warranty and 5-year/100,000km battery warranty (whichever comes first). Priced from RM147,888 (on the road, excluding insurance), the Fronz is available in two-tone colour schemes of Rising Orange + Cool Black, Savanna Ivory + Cool Black and Ice Grayish Blue + Cool Black. For those who don’t want a black roof, the colour choices are Pearl Mellow Deep Red, Cool Black, Pearl Snow White and Magma Gray.

Buy a Fronx before December 31, 2025 and you can get a RM4,000 rebate or a Free Suzuki Genuine Accessories Package (comprising a multi-roof rack, roof basket, and door visor).

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