Fuel efficiency has always been one of the key deciding factors for any Indian buyer when considering a car. And Maruti has mastered the art of fuel-efficient cars in India, which is exactly why its latest test mule has once again turned heads with something that everyone has been waiting for a while now. So what exactly is Maruti working on?
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New Maruti SUV Spotted
Recent spy shots suggest that Maruti is deep into testing what appears to be the upcoming Fronx Hybrid on Indian roads. The car spotted carries the ‘hybrid’ badging, instantly setting it apart from the standard models. Another significant detail that we can notice is the roof-mounted rack carrying a large sensor unit. So what exactly can we expect from Maruti’s upcoming product?
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What to expect?
Going by what’s visible in the spy shots, this upcoming model will be bringing significant updates to the powertrain. The upcoming Fronx will feature an all-new hybrid powertrain, which is expected to be the new Super Ene-Charge 48V hybrid system. This system is likely to be paired with the 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder Z12E petrol engine that you also get to see in the Swift and Dzire.
Maruti already offers hybrid technology on its other cars like the Grand Vitara, Victoris, and Invicto. With Fronx as a new addition to the hybrid lineup, it now aims to bring this tech to a more accessible segment. The expected fuel efficiency figures are over 35kmpl, which can make the hybrid engine a strong alternative to the CNG option.
As you take a closer look at the rear, you can also see an additional mechanical setup on the rear axle. This indicates that an AWD system may be introduced on the upcoming Fronx. While this won’t be a hardcore 4X4, it is expected to be a simpler on-demand setup designed to offer better traction on low-grip conditions. Notably, Fronx models sold in Japan and Europe already offer the AWD, and now we can expect this technology to come to the Indian version soon.
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What Else?
On the outside, the car looks identical to the current Fronx, with no obvious changes. We also expect the interior to remain unchanged as well. We do not notice any changes on the exterior in terms of design. Interestingly, we do spot a LIDAR sensor on the spied vehicle, suggesting that the upcoming Fronx could be equipped with a Level 2 ADAS. Currently, Victoris is the only model from Maruti that features a level-2 ADAS. If introduced in the Fronx, this would likely include features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, collision warning systems and more. Given the presence of features like this, the spotted car is likely to be an export unit.
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Expected Price & Launch
The Fronx Hybrid is expected to come to the Indian market around late 2026 or early 2027. The pricing is expected to remain competitive, as with most Maruti cars. The current Fronx is priced between Rs 8.01 lakh and Rs 14.09 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), and the upcoming Fronx is likely to come with a premium of Rs 1 lakh over the current price, making it the cheapest hybrid car in India.
If Maruti delivers on what these test sightings suggest, the Fronx Hybrid could redefine what Indian buyers expect from a mileage-focused budget-friendly car.
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Hi, I’m Ravindra Meena , a bike and automobile enthusiast. I share honest reviews, mileage tests, and latest updates about bikes, cars, and EVs to help you make the right choice. Stay connected for real-world insights and trending auto news! 🏍️🚗