The Maruti Fronx and Baleno are based on the same Heartect platform, but the former is a compact crossover while the latter a hatchback. In fact, with lot of parts sharing between both models, one can even consider the Fronx as a raised Baleno riding on stilts, which means buyers can inevitably end up cross shopping between the two. Looking specifically at their respective top variants, the key questions are straightforward. What powertrain options do they offer? How feature-rich are they? And how wide is the price gap between the two? Let's break it down across these key aspects before wrapping up with a conclusion.
Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Specs
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Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Engine, gearbox and mileage |
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| Nexa model | Fronx | Baleno |
| Variant | Alpha | Alpha |
| Engine | 1L turbo petrol | 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol |
| Cylinder count | 3 | 4 |
| Power | 100hp | 90hp |
| Torque | 148Nm | 113Nm |
| Gearbox | 5MT/ 6AT | 5MT/ 5AMT |
| Brand claimed mileage | 21.5kpl (MT), 20.01kpl (AT) | 22.35kpl (MT), 22.94kpl (AMT) |
In this comparison, the Fronx’s Boosterjet turbo-petrol engine clearly has the upper hand, offering 10hp and 35Nm more. It also gets a more sophisticated torque converter automatic, compared to the Baleno's AMT. For those not in the know, this engine was first introduced in the Baleno RS, the sportier and short-lived version of the hatchback sold between 2017 and 2020. The Baleno is relatively short on engine out but when it comes to claimed fuel efficiency, it has an edge in both its manual and AMT versions.
Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Features
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Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Exterior |
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| Nexa model | Fronx | Baleno |
| Dual-tone paints | Optional | No |
| LED projector headlights | Yes | Yes |
| LED tail lamps | Yes, connected | Yes, not connected |
| Front fog lamps | No | Yes, LED |
| Chrome-finished door handles | No | Yes |
| Alloy wheels | 16 inch | 16 inch |
| Rear spoiler | Yes | Yes |
| ORVM-mounted indicators | Yes | Yes |
| Electrically foldable and adjustable ORVMs | Yes | Yes |
| Rear defogger | Yes | Yes |
| Antenna type | Shark fin | Stick |
| Rear wiper and washer | Yes | Yes |
Despite sitting in a lower segment, the Maruti Baleno makes a strong case with features like front fog lamps and chrome door handles; the Fronx only counters with dual-tone paint options. LED projector headlamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, electrically adjustable and foldable ORVMs, and a rear wiper and washer are common to both.
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Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Interior |
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| Nexa model | Fronx | Baleno |
| Dual-tone interior | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | 9 inch | 9 inch |
| Android Auto/ Apple CarPlay | Wireless | Wireless |
| Speakers | 6 (including 2 tweeters) | 6 (including 2 tweeters) |
| Driver's display | Digital + analogue | Digital + analogue |
| Automatic climate control | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless charger | Yes | No |
| Cruise control | Yes | Yes |
| Head-up display | Yes | Yes |
| Push button start/ stop | Yes | Yes |
| Steering column adjustment | Tilt and telescopic | Tilt and telescopic |
| Paddle shifters | AT only | No |
| Front centre sliding armrest | Yes | Yes |
| Front footwell lights | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | No | No |
| Ventilated seats | No | No |
| 60:40 split rear seats | Yes | Yes |
| Rear fast charging ports | Type A and C | Type A and C |
| Rear seat armrest | No | No |
| Rear AC vents | Yes | Yes |
| Rear defogger | Yes | Yes |
Inside, the Baleno misses out on a wireless charger and paddle shifters, but otherwise, the two are closely matched on features. Neither offers a rear seat armrest, sunroof or ventilated seats, which feels like an omission given their premium positioning.
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Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Safety |
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| Nexa model | Fronx | Baleno |
| Airbags | 6 | 6 |
| 360-degree camera | Yes | Yes |
| Auto dimming IRVM | Yes | Yes |
| ABD with EBD | Yes | Yes |
| ESP | Yes | Yes |
| Hill-hold assist | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX mounts | Yes | Yes |
It's good to see that the safety suite of the Baleno matches that of the higher-stacked Fronx. While the Fronx is yet to be tested by Bharat New Car Assessment Programme (BNCAP), the Baleno secured a 4-star rating in June 2025.
Maruti Fronx Alpha vs Baleno Alpha: Price and verdict
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Maruti Fronx vs Baleno: Ex-showroom prices (in Rs, lakh) |
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| Nexa model | Fronx | Baleno |
| Alpha 1.2L MT | - | 8.6 |
| Alpha 1.2L AMT | - | 9.1 |
| Alpha 1L MT | 10.56 | - |
| Alpha 1L AT | 11.84 | - |
The Baleno Alpha and Fronx Alpha follow different powertrain approaches, but in terms of features across exterior, interior and safety, both are pretty well equipped. The choice ultimately depends on what you want. If stronger performance is the priority, the Fronx is the clear pick, though it comes at a premium. Also working in its favour is the 20mm advantage in ground clearance at 190mm. On Indian roads, that extra height is never a bad thing. It gives you a bit more confidence over broken patches and speed breakers, and the slightly taller stance can also make getting in and out that little bit easier. If budget is crucial, the Baleno stands out as the more affordable option, and it is also backed by its BNCAP rating. Lastly, the hatchback edges ahead on claimed fuel efficiency, something a budget-conscious buyer may appreciate.
