In a move that aligns perfectly with India’s green mobility goals, Maruti Suzuki is all set to launch a flex-fuel version of its popular SUV, the Fronx, in 2026. The upcoming model, which can run on E85 fuel (a blend of up to 85% ethanol and petrol), has already caught the attention of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who has long championed the adoption of ethanol-based fuels in India, featured Motor Octane.
The Fronx flex-fuel SUV was recently showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, marking a milestone for Maruti Suzuki and India’s automotive industry. Designed to run efficiently on high-ethanol fuel blends, the model represents a major leap from the current E20 standard in India and is in line with the government’s long-term plan to promote E30 and beyond.
Gadkari, known for his strong advocacy of sustainable transportation and reduced oil dependency, has often expressed support for flex-fuel technology. The Fronx flex-fuel SUV, being dubbed as one of his favourites, is seen as a symbol of his vision to make India a global leader in clean mobility solutions.
In terms of design and features, the upcoming model is expected to retain the core aesthetics and technology of the current petrol variant — including the sleek split-headlamp design, connected LED tail-lamps, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Heads-Up Display (HUD), 360-degree camera, and automatic climate control. However, the biggest change will be under the hood — a 1.2-litre flex-fuel-compatible engine tuned to deliver optimal performance even with high ethanol content.
The launch of this vehicle is more than just an addition to Maruti’s SUV lineup — it’s a step toward a cleaner, cost-effective, and energy-secure India. As the government continues to push for greater ethanol blending in fuels, the Fronx flex-fuel variant could play a crucial role in making green mobility mainstream and affordable.
For Indian consumers, the appeal lies in flexibility and future-readiness. The ability to use ethanol-based fuels could significantly reduce running costs, while also cutting down on emissions. For Maruti Suzuki, this move underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainable technology — not just for premium models but for the mass market.
The Maruti Fronx Flex-Fuel SUV is expected to debut in India sometime in 2026, though official launch dates and pricing details remain under wraps. Industry watchers believe it could pave the way for a new generation of eco-friendly SUVs on Indian roads.
