Suzuki Fronx owners in New Zealand are being told not to carry passengers in the rear seats after a rear safety belt mechanism failed in an ANCAP laboratory crash test.

If you drive one around the Hibiscus Coast, the key message is simple: keep the back seats empty until Suzuki provides a remedy.

The Fronx has received a one-star safety rating from ANCAP, based on poor performance in the recent crash test.

ANCAP safety ratings - Suzuki Fronx

The low rating reflects poor results across all parts of ANCAP’s testing, while the seatbelt failure is treated as a serious safety concern because a similar failure in an on-road crash could potentially result in serious injury or death for rear seat passengers.

There are 1,115 Fronx vehicles registered for use on New Zealand roads.

Officials have met with Suzuki NZ and pushed for urgent action, including considering a manufacturer’s recall.

Sales of the Fronx have been stopped in New Zealand, and owners are being contacted from today with further information and the advice not to use the rear seats for passengers at this time.

Owners are being encouraged to engage with Suzuki NZ on what solutions can be offered, especially for anyone who needs the rear seats for upcoming travel.

Anyone who has not been contacted is urged to contact Suzuki NZ or a local dealer urgently on [email protected] or 0800 929 394.

A manufacturer’s recall has now been issued for this model, with details listed in the Vehicle Safety Recalls database.

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