by Kelly Fisher
Last year proved to be a monumental year for Suzuki South Africa, building on the success of 2022. During that year, Suzuki achieved significant sales success with its existing models while introducing new generations of the Baleno and Celerio, along with a refreshed Ertiga. In 2023, Suzuki continued its momentum by launching the Fronx, XL6, and the 5-door Jimny, concluding the year by breaking several sales records.
Whenever a Suzuki graces our driveway, I am eager to explore what it brings to the table. While we didn’t have the opportunity to test drive the 5-door Jimny, we did have the chance to experience the XL6 and the Fronx. Here are my thoughts on both these vehicles.
XL6
The XL6 offers excellent value for money, providing a taste of the Vitara lifestyle at a more affordable price point. Compared to other vehicles in the price range of between R330,000 and R370,000, it offers more space and features. Despite being a six-seater family vehicle that may suggest an MPV, it exudes more of an SUV feel when on the road.
Under the bonnet, you’ll find the same 1.5-litre engine also found in the Fronx, with transmission options being consistent—a five-speed manual or a four-speed auto. Standard features are abundant, even in the entry-level GL, including LED headlamps, daytime running lamps, keyless entry, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a reverse-view camera, cruise control, and climate control. Safety considerations are paramount, featuring dual front airbags, ABS, EBD, and electronic stability control.
Fronx
The Suzuki Fronx is a compact crossover coupe-esque vehicle measuring just under 4 metres in length. Sharing the platform with the Swift, it’s designed for those seeking an urban lifestyle runabout at a cost similar to a B-segment hatchback. Positioned between the XL6 and the Ignis in the Suzuki range, it visually resembles a coupe version of a Grand Vitara, a design that I find rather appealing.
Under the bonnet, you’ll discover a 1.5-litre petrol engine delivering 77 kW and 138 N.m of torque, with options for a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. I found the Fronx to be a pleasure to drive, boasting good ride quality and a host of features.
Impressively, the Fronx comes with two specification levels: the GL and GLX, both loaded with various features. Standard across the range are features such as a leather-clad multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, electric windows at the front and rear, automatic climate control with rear-seat ventilation, central locking, electric power steering, dual rear-mounted USB charging points, and more.
Currently in the market for a new vehicle, I view cars not as a status symbol but as a reflection of my current life stage. While my budget may not stretch to accommodate these models, I would gladly consider either the XL6 or the Fronx as my next vehicle. Suzuki manages to offer style, safety, and a range of features at a competitive cost that is challenging for its rivals to match. As the kids are saying, Suzuki ate and left no crumbs.