What's the difference?
If there’s one brand that can lay claim to be the best in the ‘cheap and cheerful’ category, it’s probably Suzuki. Not only have its cars been consistently affordable and basic, but also broadly loved by owners.
Now, with small SUVs becoming more and more prominent, Suzuki is bringing a new sub-$30K hybrid light SUV to the market - the Fronx.
Weird name aside, the Fronx promises a fair bit on paper. But can it deliver on the road? We jumped in for a quick spin at its Australian launch to find out.
The Dacia Duster, a well-liked small SUV in Europe, has been available in overseas markets for about 15 years and it’s now here, albeit rebadged as the Renault Duster.
At a time when people increasingly want to escape the modern-day rat race, vehicles such as the Duster offer a family- and budget-friendly way of achieving just that.
A new small 4x4 that actually might be somewhat capable off-road and with a manual gearbox? How refreshing.
But is the Duster a legitimate rival for something like the Suzuki Jimny?
Read on.
If you’re considering a small car, particularly if an SUV is the goal, a Suzuki should in most cases be on the shopping list. Back-to-basics motoring is key to the brand’s identity. Its most popular model is a tiny ladder-frame 4X4, for example. Hi Jimny.
The Fronx doesn’t break new ground in any practical sense, but it does come in with a decent price and list of features that should sway plenty of small-car fans in the showroom.
It’s decent to look at, comfortable for the segment, and easy to get used to and drive. The numerical rating on this review betrays just how likeable the car is.
It’s not extremely refined and it starts to lose its dynamic shine on rough roads, but in an urban setting the Fronx should excel.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.
The Renault Duster 4x4 Evolution (manual) is a driver’s car. Lots of fun for day-to-day duties and a real visceral experience if you like to have a few laughs on loose-dirt and gravel tracks. And it’s adequately capable for off-roading adventures. It also has more than its fair share of cheeky charm.
Obviously it’s not anywhere near the most capable off-road vehicle available. That’s not what it’s intended to be. But it’s one of the most fun to drive on- and off-road.
And for $36,490 (excluding on-road costs), you’ll still have cash enough for a set of all-terrain tyres and some accessories.