Looking at two of India’s hottest compact SUVs—Maruti Fronx and Tata Nexon—here’s how they compare across performance, features, practicality, safety, and value for money.
1. Price & Positioning
Model | Ex-Showroom Price (Base–Top) |
Fronx | ₹7.54–13.06 lakh |
Nexon | ₹8.00–15.60 lakh |
- Fronx is more affordable at entry and in mid trims, with top variants still undercutting Nexon’s highest trims
2. Engines, Performance & Mileage
Spec | Fronx | Nexon |
Engine Options | 1.0L turbo-petrol (3-cyl),1.2L NA petrol (4-cyl),CNG (1.2L) | 1.2L turbo-petrol (3-cyl),1.2L turbo CNG, 1.5L turbo-diesel (4-cyl) |
Power | 98.7bhp (turbo), 89bhp (NA), 77.5bhp (CNG) | 118bhp (petrol), 115bhp (diesel) |
Torque | 148Nm (turbo), 113Nm (NA) | 170Nm (petrol), 260Nm (diesel) |
Transmission | 5MT/6AT (turbo), 5MT/AMT (NA), 5MT (CNG) | 5MT/6MT/AMT/7DCT (petrol), 6MT/AMT (diesel) |
Mileage (ARAI) | 20.01–22.89kmpl (petrol),28.51km/kg (CNG) | 17.01–24.08kmpl (petrol/diesel) |
- Fronx wins on fuel efficiency—especially in CNG or NA petrol guise.
- Nexon is much more powerful, especially in diesel. It also offers automatic options across most engines.
3. Dimensions & Practicality
Spec | Fronx | Nexon |
Length | 3,995mm | 3,995mm |
Width | 1,765mm | 1,804mm |
Height | 1,550mm | 1,620mm |
Wheelbase | 2,520mm | 2,498mm |
Boot Space | 308L | 382L |
Ground Cl. | 190mm | 208mm |
- Nexon is wider, taller, and has more boot space and ground clearance—offering superior comfort for tall passengers and more luggage for roadtrips
4. Features & Technology
Fronx (top trims):
- Heads-up display
- 360-degree camera
- Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- 9-inch touchscreen
- Auto climate control
- Connected tech, LED DRLs
Nexon (top trims):
- 10.25-inch digital cluster + touchscreen
- JBL audio, air purifier, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats
- 360° camera, connected car tech, wireless phone charging
- Unique voice-operated features, rear AC vents
- Cooled glovebox
- Nexon is more feature-loaded in higher trims. Both have all essentials, but Tata targets a more premium/comfort-oriented buyer in top specs
5. Safety
- Fronx: Good standard kit (ABS, EBD, ESP, 6 airbags on top trims, ISOFIX, hill assist)
- Nexon: 5-star Bharat & Global NCAP rating, 6 airbags (top trims), ESP, traction, hill assist, TPMS.
- Nexon leads for crash safety and robust build; it is widely celebrated as India’s safest compact SUV
- Nexon leads for crash safety and robust build; it is widely celebrated as India’s safest compact SUV
6. Owner Experience & Reviews
- Fronx owners highlight smooth driving, refined ride, excellent mileage, and ease of use in cities. The CNG variant is highly praised for its economy. Downsides include firmer back seat and smaller boot
- Nexon owners love the spaciousness, rugged feel, powerful engines (especially diesel), and top-notch safety. Downsides are stiffer ride (in bad traffic), higher price, and modest fuel efficiency for petrol
7. Which Should You Choose?
Preference | Fronx | Nexon |
Lower price, mileage, city use, compact parking | ✔️ | |
High power, diesel/auto options, big boot, safety | ✔️ | |
Tech/features, high-end premium feel | ✔️ | |
Value basic/mid-variant, peace of mind | ✔️ | |
Rural/tough usage, highway runs, frequent loading | ✔️ |
Bottom Line
- Buy a Fronx if you want maximum mileage, urban agility, segment-best value, and the reassurance of Maruti’s network—with CNG as a huge bonus for low running cost.
- Buy a Nexon for the safest build, most powerful diesel, higher-end comfort, and true SUV presence—with more premium features and versatility for long journeys or rough roads.
Test drive both—pick based on your usage pattern, fuel preference, and comfort with service/dealer support. Both are segment leaders for different kinds of Indian buyers.
(Comparative features, specs, and reviews as of July 2025.)
Disclaimer: Prices, specifications, mileage figures and feature lists cited in this article are based on publicly available information as of July 2025 and may change without notice. Always confirm the latest details with authorised dealers or the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. This content is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as financial, technical or legal advice. Neither the author nor this website assumes any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Mileage Disclaimer: All mileage figures mentioned in this article, including ARAI-certified and real-world fuel efficiency numbers, are indicative and may vary significantly based on actual driving conditions, rider weight, vehicle maintenance, road conditions, traffic patterns, riding style, fuel quality, weather conditions, and individual vehicle variations. ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) test figures are obtained under controlled laboratory conditions and may not reflect real-world performance. Actual mileage typically ranges 10-30% lower than ARAI figures depending on usage patterns. Urban city riding generally delivers lower mileage compared to highway cruising at optimal speeds. Regular maintenance, proper tire pressure, quality fuel, and smooth riding techniques can help achieve better fuel efficiency. The mileage figures quoted from user reviews and owner reports represent individual experiences and should not be considered as guaranteed performance standards. Always test ride with a helmet and evaluate real-world performance before making a purchase decision.
References
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