PH-spec Suzuki Fronx will get (mild) hybrid variant

It won't be long now until Suzuki Philippines Inc. officially launches its newest vehicle yet. After holding a special preview of the Fronx last June, we have received new information about the upcoming variants that will be available once they're revealed.

Based on new information we recently received, Suzuki Philippines has already brought in several units of the Fronx, which signals the vehicle's imminent debut. Moreover, there will be a hybrid variant of the upcoming crossover SUV.

According to the info we've gathered, there will be several variants of Suzuki's newest offering, Fronx GL AT, Fronx Hybrid GX AT, and Fronx Hybrid SGX AT. All will come with a 1.5L engine that displaces 1462cc and will be paired with an automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

This means the Fronx Hybrid GX and Fronx Hybrid SGX AT variants will likely get the 1.5L K15C four-cylinder engine that benefits from the brand's SHVS mild-hybrid system. In other markets, the Fronx Hybrid makes 103 PS with 137 Nm of torque and is available with either a six-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. But since it's a mild-hybrid system, it will most likely not be offered with a green plate.

In fact, we checked the DOE's website for recognized hybrids, and the Suzuki Fronx doesn't appear on the agency's list of HEVs. We've also checked the LTO website and confirmed that the Fronx has already been cleared by the government agency. They even declared the Fronx SGX variant for the Philippine market just recently.

On the other hand, the non-mild-hybrid Fronx gets the 1.5L K15B inline-four that's naturally aspirated and puts out 105 PS with 138 Nm of torque. Transmission options for the regular Fronx in other markets include a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual. This somewhat confirms our previous report that there could be non-electrified models of the Suzuki Fronx.

With the initial units brought into the country only having automatic transmissions, we're curious if Suzuki Philippines doesn't plan on offering a manual gearbox version of its upcoming crossover SUV.

Once officially launched, the Suzuki Fronx is set to compete against the likes of the Toyota Raize, Kia Sonet, and the Nissan Magnite, which is also set to be revealed for the Philippine market soon. Check out our spec check and see which of the four mini crossover SUVs offers the best features and power.