In a time when many car brands are feeling the squeeze of a tough South African economy, Suzuki is doing something pretty remarkable—it’s thriving.

Month after month, the Japanese automaker is racking up new sales records, holding tight to its spot as the third most popular brand in the country’s passenger vehicle market. That’s no small feat.

Now, the brand has just added another interesting option to its local lineup: the 2025 Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX 4AT, an automatic version of the coupe-styled crossover that turned heads last year.

A Fronx That Skips the Gear Shifts

Let’s face it—most people stuck in city traffic would gladly swap the third pedal for an easier commute.

Suzuki clearly gets that. That’s why this version of the Fronx is aimed at drivers who’d rather not fuss with a manual gearbox.

Sure, the 5-speed manual Fronx is still around and still impressive, but the four-speed automatic version is designed to better match South Africa’s daily grind.

And although the Fronx arrived a bit late to the party when it launched in 2023, Suzuki used that delay wisely—fine-tuning what customers really want.

Built for Tax Cuts and Clever Savings

Like most Suzukis on local roads, this model hails from India.

There’s a smart reason for that: the Indian government gives tax breaks on cars under four metres long.

So, the Fronx was designed to be 3,995 mm in length—just under the threshold.

That means lower production costs, and in turn, lower prices for South African buyers.

Priced at R362,900, this top-spec GLX model isn’t just about affordability—it’s also packed with features.

Stylish, Compact, and Surprisingly Spacious

Even though it’s compact, the 2025 Fronx doesn’t skimp on practicality.

It’s 1,765 mm wide, 1,550 mm tall, and has a 2,520 mm wheelbase, which means passengers won’t feel cramped.

The 304-litre boot is about average for crossovers of this size, and with the rear seats folded down, you’ll get even more room for cargo.

Design-wise, it’s hard not to admire the GLX’s sleek look.

A contrasting black roof gives it a cool coupe-like silhouette, and the gunmetal alloy wheels and two-tier LED headlamps add even more character.

Inside, you’ll find a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, automatic climate control, and cruise control. It’s fully loaded.

The Drive: Smooth, Simple, and City-Friendly

Under the hood, the Fronx keeps things simple and reliable.

It runs on a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 77 kW and 138 Nm of torque.

Mated to a four-speed automatic gearbox, the drive is smooth, easy-going, and quiet when cruising.

But going automatic does come with trade-offs. Acceleration is slower—0 to 100 km/h takes just over 10 seconds—and fuel economy takes a bit of a hit, averaging 6.9 litres/100 km, compared to the manual’s 5.9. Still, for most urban drivers, the convenience will more than make up for those small sacrifices.

A Solid Package with Just One Quirk: The Name

After a week behind the wheel, it’s clear the 2025 Suzuki Fronx 1.5 GLX 4AT offers a lot of value.

From its bold styling to the tech-laden interior, and smooth urban driving performance, it checks most boxes for compact crossover shoppers.

The only head-scratcher? The name. “Fronx” might sound odd at first, but it actually comes from a blend of the words Frontier and Crossover.

So yes, telling your friends you bought a Fronx might raise eyebrows—until they see what it can do.

Quick Specs Recap

Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol
Power: 77 kW
Torque: 138 Nm
Gearbox: 4-speed automatic
0–100 km/h: 10.2 seconds (tested)
Top speed: 170 km/h
Fuel consumption: 6.9 l/100 km (tested)
Price: R362,900