Auto

Karachi: In a buzzworthy reveal at the Pakistan Auto Show (PAPS) 2025, Suzuki has taken the wraps off its latest compact SUV, the Fronx, signalling a bold push into Pakistan’s competitive urban mobility segment. The event, unfolding at the Karachi Expo Center from November 14 to 16, drew crowds eager for innovative rides amid rising demand for versatile, fuel-efficient vehicles.The Fronx blends crossover flair with practicality, powered by a responsive 1.5-liter engine delivering 103 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Mated to a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission, it promises agile handling for city streets and light highway jaunts. With a 37-liter fuel tank, the model prioritizes efficiency without skimping on tech-forward amenities.At its core is a vibrant 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, seamlessly integrating Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for effortless connectivity. Driver aids like cruise control, hill hold control (HHC), and a 360-degree camera elevate everyday drives, while safety is fortified with six airbags, rear parking sensors, and anti-lock braking system (ABS).Inside, the cabin caters to modern lifestyles with digital climate control, rear AC vents for passenger bliss, wireless charging pads, and intuitive multifunction steering wheel controls. While these specs hail from the international variant, Suzuki hints at tailored tweaks for the Pakistani lineup to suit local preferences and conditions.Industry watchers see the Fronx as a game-changer for young professionals and families seeking style on a budget. “This isn’t just a vehicle; it’s Suzuki’s vision for tomorrow’s roads,” remarked a company spokesperson at the unveiling. As PAPS continues, expect test drives and deeper dives into pricing and availability, potentially debuting in showrooms by early 2026.

The global automotive industry is facing a deepening crisis as semiconductor shortages intensify amid mounting US-China trade tensions. Chipmaker Nexperia, a critical supplier for major automakers, has been hit with new export restrictions on advanced chips — sending shockwaves across global production lines. Major Automakers in Crisis Mode – Nissan says current supplies will only last until early November, forcing reduced production schedules. – Honda has completely halted operations at its Mexican assembly plants, leaving thousands of workers idle and delaying key SUV releases. – Mercedes-Benz warns of looming disruptions across its global fleet. – Volkswagen, Fiat, and others in Brazil are preparing to shut down plants within weeks due to incoming shortages. Emergency Plans and ‘War Rooms’ Activated Automakers have set up emergency sourcing “war rooms,” urgently turning to chip stockpiles in Taiwan and South Korea in an attempt to stabilize operations. Market Impact Analysts forecast a 15–20% decline in Q4 automotive output, worsening EV rollout delays, tightening supply, and pushing up vehicle prices. Shares of impacted automakers fell 2–4%, reflecting escalating concerns. Industry Warning “This isn’t just a hiccup — it’s a supply chain meltdown,” said Ford’s procurement chief, urging diplomatic intervention to prevent further disruption.