The Tata Punch and Maruti Fronx are popular choices in the subcompact and compact SUV segments, respectively, and while both models offer turbo-petrol powertrains, they differ widely in specifications. Their feature lists and ex-showroom prices also vary. Although they are not direct rivals, this feature looks at how the top trims of the Tata and Maruti SUVs stack up on paper across the above-mentioned parameters.
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Prices
Top-spec Punch turbo MT costs Rs 76,000 less than Fronx equivalent
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Prices (ex-showroom) | ||
| SUV | Punch | Fronx |
| Variant | Accomplished+ S | Alpha |
| Manual (in Rs lakh) | 9.8 | 10.56 |
| Automatic (in Rs lakh) | Not available | 11.84 |
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Specs
Punch turbo makes 20hp, 22Nm more
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Specs | ||
| SUV | Punch | Fronx |
| Variant | Accomplished+ S | Alpha |
| Engine | 3 cyls, 1.2L | 3 cyls, 1L |
| Power | 120hp at 5500rpm | 100hp at 5500rpm |
| Torque | 170Nm at 1750-4000rpm | 148Nm at 2000-4500rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 5-speed manual/ 6-speed torque-converter automatic |
| 0-100kph (brand claimed) | 11.1 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
The Punch’s relatively larger three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine makes 20hp and 22Nm more than the Fronx, giving it a slightly quicker claimed 0-100kph sprint time. Paper specs further suggest well-contained turbo-lag in the Punch, as peak output is available from as low as 1750rpm. However, the Maruti SUV claws back some ground with an automatic gearbox option.
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Features
Head-up display offered only with Fronx
Tata Punch vs Maruti Fronx turbo variants: Features | ||
| SUV | Punch | Fronx |
| Variant | Accomplished+ S | Alpha |
| Headlights | LED | Projector LED |
| Alloy wheels | 16-inch | 16-inch |
| Sunroof | Single-pane | Single-pane |
| Connected LED tail-lights | Yes | Yes |
| Rear wiper and washer | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | 10.25 inch | 9 inch |
| Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto | Wireless | Wireless |
| Head-up display | No | Yes |
| Speakers | 8 (includes 4 tweeters) | 6 (includes 2 tweeters) |
| Electronically adjustable ORVMs | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-folding ORVMs | Yes | Yes |
| Auto-dimming IRVM | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless charging | Yes | Yes |
| Rear AC vents | Yes | Yes |
| 360-degree camera | Yes | Yes |
Despite sitting a segment lower, the Tata Punch is impressively well-kitted, and it underlines how carmakers are pushing to load feature lists even in smaller segments. In fact, the respective top variants of the two SUVs are closely matched overall, with the Punch pulling ahead with a larger touchscreen and more tweeters. The Fronx, however, counters with a head-up display, a feature missing on the Punch.
