Quick Read
- Sales Performance: Fronx outperformed Baleno by 5,651 units between January and May 2025.
- Pricing: Baleno is priced lower (₹6.70L–₹9.92L) compared to Fronx (₹7.54L–₹13.06L).
- SUV Advantage: SUV-favored design boosts Fronx sales, aligning with India’s growing SUV market (55% share).
- Common Features: Shared Heartect platform, infotainment systems, head-up display, 360-degree camera, and six airbags.
- Powertrain Options: Both use the efficient 1.2L K-Series petrol engine with MT and AMT; CNG variants available.
- Unique to Fronx: Available 1.0L Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine for added performance.
Full Comparison
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx and Baleno, based on the same Heartect platform, continue to dominate their respective segments in 2025. Despite fierce competition in the sub-4 metre compact SUV space, the Fronx has proved its mettle since its launch in April 2023, outperforming Baleno in sales by a solid margin. From January to May 2025, Fronx achieved an impressive 78,251 unit sales, surpassing Baleno’s 72,600 units.
Price Points
The Baleno is priced more affordably, ranging from ₹6.70 lakh to ₹9.92 lakh (ex-showroom). On the other hand, the Fronx starts at ₹7.54 lakh, going up to ₹13.06 lakh, thanks to its SUV-focused design and additional turbo-petrol variant, which justifies its higher price.
Key Features
Both models share many premium features, including:
- A 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Arkamys sound system for a superior audio experience.
- Automatic climate control for passenger comfort.
- Advanced safety features like a head-up display, 360-degree view camera, and six airbags.
While the interiors of both offer modern layouts, the Fronx takes the edge by appealing to SUV enthusiasts, which has become a strong trend in India, as SUVs make up 55% of car sales.
Powertrain Options
Both the Fronx and Baleno are powered by Maruti’s 1.2L K-Series Dual-Jet Dual-VVT engine, delivering 89.7 PS and 113 Nm torque, with options for a 5-speed manual transmission and a 5-speed AMT. CNG variants are also available, offering class-leading fuel efficiency of:
- Baleno: Petrol MT (22.35 kmpl), Petrol AMT (22.94 kmpl), CNG MT (30.61 km/kg).
- Fronx: Petrol MT (21.79 kmpl), Petrol AMT (22.89 kmpl), CNG MT (28.51 km/kg).
Additionally, the Fronx brings a unique offering with its turbo-petrol engine. The 1.0L Boosterjet engine churns out 100 PS power and 147.6 Nm torque. It offers smooth performance with minimal turbo lag, a rarity in its category. Fuel efficiency remains strong at 21.5 kmpl for the turbo-petrol MT and 20 kmpl for AT. However, less than 20% of buyers opt for turbo-petrol due to Maruti’s high-mileage reputation, leaving the naturally aspirated variants as the preferred choice.
Which Should You Choose?
If affordability and mileage are your priorities, the Baleno stands out as India’s favorite premium hatchback. But if you’re drawn to SUV styling and added performance options, the Fronx delivers unmatched value, especially with its versatile turbo-petrol engine.
Both models carry Maruti Suzuki’s promise of reliability, efficiency, and thoughtful engineering, making either choice a strong contender in their respective spaces.
