When you think of fuel efficiency, you think mileage. But what if we told you that Maruti is working on an SUV that crosses the 30 kmpl efficiency mark? Here is what you should know about this upcoming 30kmpl SUV.
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Maruti Fronx Hybrid –
The Fronx is one of Maruti’s best-selling SUVs, and it is now set to get its biggest update yet – a hybrid powertrain. Maruti has been developing its in-house series-hybrid powertrain, and the Fronx will be the first model to benefit from it. It has also been spotted testing on Indian roads, suggesting an imminent launch.
From the exterior, it would be difficult to distinguish it from the standard model, except for the hybrid badging at the rear. The overall crossover-like stance remains with the hybrid. But to liven things up, Maruti could introduce new colours and a different alloy wheel design for the hybrid.
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Features
The hybrid test mule was spotted with LiDAR sensors, suggesting the Fronx could soon get an ADAS suite. The rest of the feature list would remain identical to the standard Fronx. Its feature list could include –
- 10.1-inch infotainment screen
- Digital driver’s display
- 360-degree camera
- Electric sunroof
- Wireless charging
- Ventilated front seats
- Powered driver’s seat
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Maruti Fronx Hybrid – Powertrain
We expect the series hybrid tech to be mated to Maruti’s 1.2-litre NA engine. The Z-series 1.2-litre engine is already used with the Swift and Dzire and will be adopted for the Fronx hybrid. The engine has a claimed efficiency of 25.75kmpl, so we can expect a boost of around 4-5 kmpl with the hybrid. As for the gearbox, it could get a 5-speed AMT as standard.
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Expected Pricing & Launch
The Fronx promises to be one of the most affordable hybrids on the market, and you can expect a price of around Rs 10-15 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). It may be a slight premium over the standard version, but you would make up for it within a few years thanks to the improved efficiency.
The Fronx hybrid could be launched later this year. It is expected to be the first model to use Maruti’s new hybrid technology. Cars like the Swift, Baleno and Brezza are expected to follow soon after. Moreover, we could see the Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor get a hybrid powertrain pretty soon.
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