Suzuki Fronx GLX Plus Review: Is the technology enough to compensate for the price?

Suzuki Fronx has just launched in the Vietnamese market with three versions GL, GLX and GLX Plus, priced at 520-649 million VND. In the context of increasingly vibrant A-size SUVs, Fronx chose a different path: focusing on the design of a coupe-like SUV and promoting active safety technology in the high-end version.

This review focuses on the GLX Plus – the top version, and compares the GL and GLX to clarify the “technology or space/price” issue when placed next to the Toyota Raize, Kia Sonet and Hyundai Venue.

Suzuki Fronx joins the A-size SUV segment in Vietnam. Photo: Ngo Minh — Suzuki Fronx - a new rookie joining the A-size SUV segment in Vietnam. Photo: Ngo Minh

Coupe design creates a difference

Instead of a purely practical boxy shape like the Toyota Raize or a muscular Kia Sonet/Hyundai Venue, the Fronx impresses with its SUV-coupe style – a sloping roofline and a more seamless rear end. The LED headlights, LED positioning strips and horizontal LED taillights follow the new trend to create a modern look, while the wheel arch covers and 16-inch wheels create a strong highlight.

The plus points in terms of recognition are obvious: in the city, the Fronx looks youthful and neat; in the rear diagonal view, the sloping roofline makes the car different from the rest of the segment.

The SUV-coupe design makes the Suzuki Fronx different. Photo: Ngo Minh — Suzuki Fronx stands out from the rest thanks to its coupe-SUV design. Photo: Ngo Minh

Youthful cabin, trading off some space

The dashboard layout is reminiscent of the Suzuki Swift: clean lines, intuitive and practical interface. Materials, color schemes and function button placement are inclined towards easy daily operation. In the GLX Plus version, the “technological” feeling is clearly shown through the HUD screen that projects information onto the windshield – a rare feature in this price range.

In return, the coupe-style roofline compromises rear seat headroom compared to boxier rivals like the Raize/Sonet. The 304-litre boot is also less than the Sonet (392 litres) and Raize (369 litres), meaning versatility for families with lots of luggage will be limited.

Fronx interior inherits design language from Suzuki Swift. Photo: Ngo Minh — The interior of the Suzuki Fronx is inherited from the design of the Suzuki Swift. Photo: Ngo Minh

Main parameters and operating direction

Version	Engine	Capacity	Gear	Notable equipment
GL	1.5L gasoline	103 horsepower	4-speed automatic	—
GLX	1.5L Mild-Hybrid	99 horsepower	6-speed automatic	—
GLX Plus	1.5L Mild-Hybrid	99 horsepower	6-speed automatic	HUD, ADAS (automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist), 360-degree camera

Expected experience

The GL's 1.5L 103 horsepower configuration, combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission, promises to be easy to get used to in the city, with clear throttle response at low speeds and simple in terms of usage costs. Meanwhile, the two 1.5L mild-hybrid versions (99 horsepower) come with a 6-speed transmission aimed at smoothness and fuel economy - suitable for the habit of moving at a steady throttle in the city.

Compared to the 1.0L turbocharged engine on the Toyota Raize/Hyundai Venue, the Fronx will be less “exciting” when accelerating hard or overtaking at high speeds. In return, the smooth, gentle operation and optimal consumption are often the strengths of the non-turbo/mild-hybrid configuration.

Safety and assistive technology

The highlight of the GLX Plus is the ADAS active safety package including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist. The 360-degree camera supports observation when turning around and parking in narrow alleys; at the same time, the HUD screen helps the driver monitor speed and warns right at eye level, reducing distraction. These equipment are not available in all B-class SUVs in the same price range.

On GL/GLX trims, a detailed safety list is not included in the source information; buyers should check the dealer equipment list to compare according to their needs.

Price and positioning: choose “A-SUV with lots of technology” or “B-SUV with spaciousness”

Fronx prices range: GL 520 million VND, GLX 599 million VND, GLX Plus 649 million VND. Compared to Raize (from 510 million VND), Sonet (from 539 million VND) and Venue (from 499 million VND), the two GL/GLX versions show better competitiveness thanks to their different design and smart layout. However, GLX Plus is closer to the price of standard B-size SUVs such as Mitsubishi Xforce GLX (from 599 million VND), Hyundai Creta Standard (from 599 million VND), KIA Seltos 1.5L AT (599 million VND) or Mazda CX-3 Deluxe (579 million VND) - models that are superior in size and space.

High price may affect Suzuki Fronx's competitiveness in Vietnam — High selling price may affect Suzuki Fronx's competitiveness when entering the Vietnamese automobile market. Photo: Ngo Minh

For young users who value unique design, technological experience and fuel economy, Fronx – especially GLX Plus – brings many different values. On the contrary, if family space and pure practicality are the priority, standard B-SUV options will be more reasonable in the same price range.

Conclude

Strengths: Distinctive coupe design; active safety equipment and HUD in the GLX Plus version stand out in the segment; smooth, economical driving experience (mild-hybrid).
Weaknesses: Rear seat headroom and 304-liter luggage compartment capacity are limited compared to competitors; GLX Plus version is priced close to B-SUV; acceleration/high-speed overtaking ability is less advantageous compared to the 1.0L turbocharged engine of some competitors.
Suitable for: Users who prioritize style, safety technology and everyday smoothness; are willing to compromise on space.

Source: https://baonghean.vn/danh-gia-suzuki-fronx-glx-plus-cong-nghe-co-du-suc-bu-gia-10308409.html