Maruti Fronx Turbo vs Tata Altroz Racer – Which One’s Better?

In this post, I am comparing the two turbo petrol vehicles – Maruti Fronx Turbo and Tata Altroz Racer on the basis of specs, prices, features and more. Both these cars cater to driving enthusiasts. People looking for a relatively affordable performance vehicle would opt for either of these. On the one hand, we have the Fronx. It is a crossover which is based on the Baleno. It even comes with a regular 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine. That makes it accessible to a wider range of audiences. On the other hand, the Racer edition of the Altroz was launched recently. It shares the turbo petrol mill with the regular Altroz. Let us take a look at the details of these cars.

Maruti Fronx Turbo vs Tata Altroz Racer – Price Comparison

Maruti Fronx is available in two powertrain options. The naturally aspirated petrol trims start at Rs 7.51 lakh and go up to Rs 9.38 lakh, whereas the turbo petrol variants retail between Rs 9.72 lakh and Rs 13.04 lakh, ex-showroom. On the other hand, the Altroz Racer is a special edition model which retails from Rs 9.49 lakh to Rs 10.99 lakh, ex-showroom. On the other hand, the regular Altroz ranges from Rs 6.65 lakh to Rs 11.35 lakh, ex-showroom.

Maruti Fronx Turbo vs Tata Altroz Racer – Specs Comparison

Maruti Fronx comes in two versions – a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol and a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 90 PS / 113 Nm and 100 PS / 147 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. The buyers get to choose between either a 5-speed manual or an AMT gearbox. What is impressive is the fact that the mileage figure ranges from 21.79 kmpl for the manual to 22.89 kmpl for the AMT. With the turbo petrol variant, there are options of either a 5-speed manual or an automatic transmission. The fuel economy with the turbo petrol version is a decent 20.01 kmpl with both manual and automatic transmission. Interestingly, there is also a CNG mill with the 1.2-litre version which generates a usable 78 PS and 99 Nm of peak power and torque.

On the other hand, the Tata Altroz Racer draws power from a sporty 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine which generates a decent 120 PS and 170 Nm of peak power and torque. Note that this is the same engine which also powers the regular model. Hence, there are no performance enhancements in comparison to the regular Altroz. Interestingly, the Racer edition is on sale solely with a 6-speed manual transmission. On the other hand, the regular Altroz comes with a manual, as well as an automatic gearbox. Also, there are also diesel and CNG versions on offer for those looking for low running costs. However, the Racer edition just comes with a petrol mill and manual transmission.

Maruti Fronx Turbo vs Tata Altroz Racer – Features Comparison

In terms of the features, safety and comfort, both these vehicles are loaded to the brim. That is a critical criterion in modern cars. People look for all sorts of connectivity and tech amenities with cars around this price range. In all honesty, all modern cars above the entry-level segment have loads of tech functions to ease the lives of the owners. Also, safety is a huge concern. Note that Altroz is currently the only hatchback in the country which boasts a full 5-star safety rating. Hence, people looking for safety prowess automatically go for the Altroz. For now, let us take a look at the features list of the Fronx.

• 9-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display with SmartPlay Pro
• ARKAMYS Surround Sense Audio System
• Suzuki Connect Features
• MID Instrument Cluster with TFT Color
• Onboard Voice Assistant with “Hi Suzuki” Command
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Over-the-Air (OTA) Update
• USB and Bluetooth Connectivity
• 6-Speaker Audio System
• Tilt Adjustment for Steering Wheel
• Electrically Foldable ORVMs
• Front and Rear Adjustable Headrest
• Automatic Climate Control
• LED Multi-Reflector Headlamp
• Keyless Entry
• Steering-Mounted Controls
• 60:40 Split Rear Seats
• Automatic Climate Control
• LED Multi-Reflector Headlamp
• 6 Airbags
• Electronic Stability Program
• Hill Hold Assist
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• All 3-Point ELR Seat Belts
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Head-Up Display
• 360-degree Camera
• Wireless Charging
• Height Adjustable Driver Seat
• Electrically Foldable ORVMs

Similarly, even the Tata Altroz boasts tons of latest amenities like:

• 10.25-inch Digital Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• 7-inch TFT Digital Instrument Cluster
• Ventilated Seats
• 360-degree Camera
• Voice-Activated Electric Sunroof
• Wireless Charging
• 6 Airbags
• iRA – Connected Car Technology
• Front Ventilated Seats (Driver and Co-Driver)
• Air Purifier
• Blind View Monitor
• 360-degree Surround View System
• Ambient Lighting on Dashboard
• Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel and Gear Knob
• Sporty Exhaust
• Electrically Adjustable and Autofold ORVMs
• Cruise Control
• 8 Speakers (4 Speakers + 4 Tweeters)
• Smart Key with Push Button Start Stop
• Fully Automatic Temperature Control
• Leatherette Seats
• Rear AC Vents

Dimensions Comparison

In terms of dimensions, both these are sub-4-m vehicles. Hence, they get the tax benefits to keep the costs in check. However, the Maruti Fronx has a crossover appearance which looks butch. People seeking SUV-ish traits would often go for it. That is the charm of modern-day compact SUVs and crossovers. On the other hand, the Tata Altroz bears the typically sporty stance of a hatchback. Hence, these two are completely distinct when it comes to external styling and appearance.

Our View

Maruti Fronx Turbo and Tata Altroz Racer are two compelling propositions for driving enthusiasts. They are not all that different from their regular models. Hence, they reap the benefits of the original models, both of which are quite popular and add this enthusiastic nature. Hence, people have an option to opt for these special edition models. On the one hand, we have the Fronx. It belongs to the largest carmaker in the country. Hence, it is able to benefit from the dense sales and service network. You can literally find a Maruti Suzuki sales or aftersales touchpoint just about anywhere in the country. Apart from that, Maruti cars are high on mileage, low on maintenance costs and offer great resale value.

All these factors go in favour of the Indo-Japanese company. On the other hand, Tata Motors is selling its latest cars like hotcakes. Safety is the prime reason for their massive success. In addition, they bear striking appearances, come with multiple powertrain options and offer the latest tech and convenience amenities. Therefore, these are enough to attract a whole bunch of buyers. Hence, I would recommend our readers to visit their nearest dealerships and test drive both these cars. You can’t go wrong with either of these.

You may also like: Tata Altroz Racer Detailed in a Walkaround Video