Maruti Fronx 1.2 real world fuel economy tested, explained

The Baleno-based Maruti Fronx crossover comes with two engine options – a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbo-petrol and a 1.2-litre, naturally aspirated four-cylinder. We’ve now put the Fronx 1.2 through our instrumented fuel economy tests and the results are as follows.

1. Maruti claims a mileage of 21.8kpl
2. Fronx 1.2 gets auto engine stop/start tech

Maruti Fronx 1.2 fuel economy

The Fronx 1.2 uses Maruti’s tried-and-tested K12N engine that puts out 90hp and 113Nm. Gearbox options include a 5-speed manual and a 5-speed AMT automatic. We’ve tested the manual version here.

Maruti claims the combined fuel efficiency of the Fronx 1.2 is 21.8kpl. However, in our real-world tests, we managed to get 13.5kpl in the city and out on the highway, it returned an impressive 20kpl.

The Fronx 1.2 packs in auto engine stop-start tech, which contributes to fuel savings. Interestingly, the engine stop-start feature will keep the engine turned off at a signal even if the cabin temperature rises higher than the preset climate control temperature; it’ll only restart the engine when you depress the clutch pedal and this helps conserve fuel in the city. Out on the highway, at 100kph in fifth gear, the engine spins at just around 2,600rpm, which again aids fuel efficiency.

Autocar India’s fuel efficiency testing

Before our real-world fuel efficiency test, we fill the tanks of our test cars to the brim and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. These cars are driven in fixed city and highway loops, and we maintain certain average speeds. Throughout our test, we ran the air-con, ventilated seats and other electricals like the audio system, indicators and wipers when required, just like how a regular user would. Periodic driver swaps further neutralise variations in driver patterns. At the end of each cycle, we calculate efficiency by filling them up to the brim again.

Also see: 

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Maruti Suzuki Fronx 1.2 petrol review: People’s choice

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