Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) on Thursday unveiled two new SUVs — Jimny, Fronx — as the country's largest carmaker looks to strengthen its SUV line-up.

While the much-awaited off-roader Jimny will take on rival Mahindra Thar, the sporty compact SUV Fronx aims to introduce a new design trend in the country’s rapidly growing SUV segment.

The Jimny (5-door) will be introduced in India first, followed by Suzuki's global markets. It comes loaded with safety features including six-airbags, ESP with hill hold assist, and hill descent control, among others. The car will be available in seven colour options, including five monotone shades and 2 dual-tone options.

The Jimny, which was originally launched in global markets in 1970, is powered by Suzuki's four wheel drive technology. The carmaker claims its special 4WD transfer case lets a driver shift seamlessly from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive on-the-fly.

"We are delighted to present two new SUVs today, the new sporty compact SUV FRONX that will set the trend for a shape of new SUVs in the country and the much-awaited JIMNY with its legendary off-road prowess offering an authentic," says Hisashi Takeuchi, managing director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.

Conceptualised, designed and developed in India, Fronx features an aerodynamic silhouette, roof rails and a wide bonnet to give it a commanding road presence. It also boasts chiselled wheel arches, muscular fenders and side body cladding. The black and bordeaux contrasting colour scheme fits into NEXA's brand philosophy seamlessly. To create a strong SUV image, the Fronx gets a special forged metal-like matte finish on the dashboard to highlight its rugged character.

Powering the Fronx are multiple powertrain options meeting the different customer requirements. Performance enthusiasts who seek more power and excitement can choose the all-new 1.0L Kseries Turbo Boosterjet Direct Injection engine for the first time featuring Progressive Smart Hybrid technology. The Fronx with Turbo Boosterjet engine will be available with the choice of 5-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

The Fronx compact SUV is equipped with 6 airbags. The sporty compact SUV will be offered in 6 single-tone colour options. To further complement the exterior design, Fronx will also be available in 3 trendy dual-tone colours.

Thar

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