2023 Fronx is a Raize-sized fighter from Suzuki

All-new Fronx is the subcompact crossover Suzuki PH needs

Yesterday, Suzuki wowed the world when they officially revealed the Jimny 5-Door. With two extra doors and a longer wheelbase, Suzuki's much-loved mini 4x4 is now more practical and a little more spacious compared to its 3-Door counterpart.

But while the Jimny 5-Door has taken the limelight, the automaker also revealed another model at this year's Auto Expo in India. It's the 2023 Suzuki Fronx and it could serve as one of the most important vehicles for Suzuki Philippines.

For starters, the Fronx is right in the segment of the Toyota Raize and Kia Stonic. Measuring 3995mm long, 1765mm wide, and 1550mm tall, it's right in the ballpark figures of its aforementioned rivals. It also has a respectable 2520mm wheelbase which gives it plenty of interior space for both passengers and cargo.

Platform-wise, Suzuki says the all-new Fronx is based on the Baleno which means it also uses the brand's Heartect architecture. As for its looks, the Fronx appears to borrow inspiration from the all-new Grand Vitara with its distinct split-headlight design where LED daytime running lights are placed up top while the headlights are placed at the bumper. It also comes with a bold front grille, squared wheel arches, wraparound LED taillights, and front/rear skid plates that give it a more rugged appearance.

Pop the doors open and the Fronx's interior looks similar to that of the Baleno's. However, it gets a slightly more upmarket appearance with faux metal finishes, silver-colored trim pieces, and a dual-tone look. At the center of the dash is a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system while below it is an automatic climate control panel that's available in high-grade models. Other available features inside the Fronx include a heads-up display, a 360-degree camera, a wireless charging pad, and rear aircon vents.

Two engine options are available for the 2023 Fronx. First up is a naturally-aspirated 1.2-liter three-cylinder DualJet K12C that makes 90 PS and 113 Nm of torque. If those figures look familiar, that's because it's the same engine seeing use in the Dzire albeit this one has 8 PS more. Power is then sent to either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) called Auto Gear Shift (AGS).

For those that prefer a little more oomph, there's the 1.0-liter turbocharged Boosterjet three-cylinder that comes with mild-hybrid technology. It makes 100 PS with 148 Nm of torque and can be coupled to either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

With the Suzuki Fronx available with a naturally-aspirated engine or a turbocharged three-cylinder, as well as its subcompact dimensions, this could give the likes of the Toyota Raize and Kia Stonic something to think about.

The only question now is, will Suzuki Philippines actually bring this here? Let us know in the comments if the Suzuki Fronx will make sense here in the country.