Kia has revealed a mid-cycle facelift for the K5 sedan, formerly known as the Optima. While crossovers continue to dominate the market, Kia is committed to updating its sedans, despite the SUV craze.
This update is for the domestic version currently available in South Korea, but the global model is expected to be nearly identical. The K5 has received mild changes, with redesigned headlights and taillights following a trend seen in recent Kia EVs. A new front bumper with larger faux air vents adds a touch of sportiness.
The rear of the K5 gets new exhaust finishers, a notable change on non-GT-Line models. The updated K5 also offers new alloy wheel designs, available in sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches, including a predominantly black version without the usual metallic accents. Two new body colors, Wolf Gray and Moonscape Matte Gray, join the existing palette.
The cabin sees more significant updates, with the dashboard revised to accommodate two curved screens. The gear lever has been replaced with a small rotary selector, and a fingerprint sensor has been added to the lower center console. The 2025 K5 also features high-resolution front and rear cameras capable of recording and saving footage. Other changes include an enhanced head-up display, additional sound-deadening materials, and increased support for over-the-air updates.
The Kia K5 offers several engine options, including a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 160hp, a turbocharged 1.6-litre unit with 180hp, a 2.0-litre LPI (Liquid Propane Injection) engine rated at 146hp, and a 2.0-litre hybrid with 152hp from the combustion engine and an additional 52hp from the electric motor.
Pricing for the updated K5 starts at 27,840,000 won, which is approximately RM98,000. While crossovers dominate the market, Kia remains committed to its sedans, with the K5 receiving a mild refresh to keep it competitive in the midsize sedan segment.
Mercedes-AMG has unveiled an updated version of its GT63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe, reinforcing its position as a formidable super-sedan in the European market. This refresh brings subtle design enhancements and added features, elevating an already powerful and stylish package.
Exterior Updates
The 2024 GT63 S E Performance 4-Door Coupe has received a notable front-end facelift, drawing design cues from the new AMG GT Coupe. The lower grille opening is now broader and narrower, with redesigned outboard intakes sporting sporty vertical slits. Multibeam LED headlights frame the grille, now taller and adorned with additional black trim along the bottom, enhancing its aggressive stance.
The newly introduced Yaris IMP by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) receives a facelift, boasting updated styling, enhanced technology, and a refreshed interior ambience.
This model builds upon the significant success of its predecessor, having sold over 60,300 units since its initial launch in 2019. The Yaris continues to embody the theme “Dare To Live: Amp Up Your Vibe,” appealing to a youthful audience by offering joy and excitement to those seeking a vehicle that aligns with their modern and forward-thinking sense of style.
The latest Toyota Yaris is now available in two variants: the 1.5E and 1.5G. Both variants feature sporty front and rear skirting, along with an optional 2-tone paint finish that includes a striking black roof. In total, there are 5 color combinations to choose from, with red mica metallic and platinum white pearl colours available in both single or two-tone options. The silver metallic finish is exclusively available in a single-tone option.
The German automaker’s BMW X6 rival will get some subtle aesthetic updates, taking inspiration from the newly updated Audi Q8 E-tron. Matrix LED lighting is one of them, along with smoother surfaces for a more elegant appearance, larger front air intakes for a more commanding presence, and a new exhaust system intended to provide a better engine sound.
The updated grille, which features a distinctive design evocative of Audi’s top-tier models, is one of the most noticeable aesthetic modifications. This grille has vertical inlays with a brushed aluminium finish, which gives it a more upscale appearance. Additionally, the body trim is colour-coordinated for the higher-end models, adding to a cleaner, simpler look.
While the early Hyundai Sonatas had a formal design language as it was largely presented as an executive sedan, the sixth generation onwards from 2009 saw a transformation of its image with the ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language. From this more advanced look, the Sonata has evolved to become a bigger car too and by the eighth generation, ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ design language (first previewed in the Le Fil Rouge concept) was adopted.
The eighth generation is still in production, having made its debut in 2019 (October 2020 in Malaysia), and although there are rumours that it will be discontinued, Hyundai Motor has still one more facelift to go through before ending the model line.
Though introduced in 2016 and 2017, Alfa Romeo’s Giulia and Stelvio – which share the same platform – continue to soldier on into 2022. While the China versions received updates in 2020, the new 2022/2023 versions get exterior changes that create a strong family resemblance with the Tonale.
At the fronts of the new Giulia and Stelvio, the front grille, where the logo is positioned, and the lower grilles of the two main air ducts have been given a unique finishing which provides a contemporary reinterpretation of the famous and distinct Trilobo grille. The headlight units are entirely new in with ‘3+3’ lights that are the Full-LED Adaptive Matrix type.
While the newer X70 and X50 SUV models have been selling well and have strong demand, it has been the Saga that has consistently remained the strongest seller for Proton all these years. It contributed to a large share of sales each year that the original model was able to last right up till the beginning of 2008 – almost 23 years after it was launched.
The generations following enjoyed the same success and loyal customer base that kept growing, and so when it comes to any updates, the focus is on providing more but not tampering with the success formula. That’s the case with the updated 2022 Saga launched today and the slight changes in price across the range are matched with additional features and of course, some cosmetic changes.
The 2022 range is offered with 4 variants – Premium S and Premium, and Standard with automatic and manual transmissions. From what we recall, the last price range for the Saga was between RM32,800 to RM39,800 and the new pricelist shows a range of between RM34,400 to RM44,300.
When Proton Design began working on this new model, the COVID-19 pandemic had started and people had to work from home. But fortunately, it was already decided that there would be no major changes required so the ‘new normal’ in working life was not a problem for the design team.
For facelifts, the designers usually make alterations in the usual areas where fixed apertures in the bodywork are – typically the grille, bumpers and lighting units. Unless there is extra budget, new body panels are avoided and this has been the case for the new Saga which also retains the bumpers from before.
The grille has the same ‘Infinite Weave’ design as before – a signature feature of Proton models – and now incorporates the latest brand logo in the middle. Sharp-eyed observers will spot the differentiating element which is in the strip running along the bottom of the grille. Where is used to be just a straight line running the full width, the logo now ‘cuts’ into the strip which also has a ’dip’. It would seem the designers have recalled a little detail that began with the Waja 20 years ago and was present up till the Satria Neo.
Depending on the variant (of which there are four), the strip is silver (or is it white) on the Standard and Premium versions and red on the Premium S.
To add sportiness to the top Premium S version, side skirts are added along with extensions to the front bumper. While skirts do have a vital role in aerodynamics on racing cars, they are largely cosmetic attachments that visually lower the car. At the rear is a slim spoiler which is also found on the other 3 variants.
Facelifts also often see the wheel designs changing as this does not require any engineering changes. For the 2022 model, the 15-inch alloy wheels for the Saga Premium S/Premium have an interesting design with 4 spokes finished in a light colour and the other sections of the wheel left dark. The wheels for the Saga Premium have all the spokes in the same colour for differentiation.
15-inch wheels on Saga Premium S (left) and Saga Premium (right).
The Standard versions also have different wheels or rather, the Standard with automatic transmission has 14-inch rims of a similar design as before and the one with manual transmission is fitted with steel wheels (and covers). Standard versions have 175/65 tyres while the Premium versions get a wider 185/55 size.
The same proven 1.3-litre 16-valve DOHC VVT engine is used for all variants. Its output of 95 ps/120 Nm reaches the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic (not a CVT) or 5-speed manual transmission. No mention is made of tuning changes but to help the driver stretch each litre, there’s ECO Drive Assist to indicate when the driving style is efficient. Of course, the engine runs fine on RON95 so no worries about the rising price of RON97 petrol.
One thing we noticed was the absence of insulating pads on the undersides of the bonnet as well as bootlid. These pads can be found in most cars nowadays, even rivals to the Saga. Exposing bare metal (even if painted) doesn’t help the image of a car as it gives a ‘cheap’ impression but Proton probably needed the cost-saving. While acknowledging the omission, a senior executive on the engineering team said that in as far as noise is concerned, the absence of the insulating pad does not make a lot of difference as a lot of effort had already gone into reducing overall noise levels earlier. However, for those who have bionic ears and insist that an insulating pad makes a difference, Proton does offer the item as an accessory. It’s like the old days when EON used to sell sound-absorbing pads which owners could add on to the bodywork to reduce noise.
Omission of insulating pad exposes the bare metal (even if it’s painted), which gives a ‘cheap’ look.
Like the exterior, the interior also gets changes which do not require major changes in the overall structure of the various sections, eg the dashboard. The Premium S gets some extra attention in detailing with red accents around the air vents. The same red treatment is also seen around the meters, an idea which was originally used on the Anniversary Edition (but with a different colour).
New convenience features include automatic folding mirrors, keyless entry and a pushstart button which means the key fob can stay in the pocket and handbag. However, it would need to be used if you want to open the bootlid from a distance.
The boot space is still 420 litres, quite generous for a small car, and when more space is needed, the rear backrest can be folded down. This lengthens the boot floor into the cabin so you can load a long carpet.
As a general policy, the Geely Group which Proton is a part of has made cabin air quality an important matter, and this is especially important today to control the spread of viruses. During the pandemic’s early months, Geely was quick to develop more effective air filtration systems for its cars and other brands in the group have also followed suit. For the new Saga, the N95 cabin filter is now standard for all variants.
The infotainment system has updated has the new operating software and Bluetooth 4.2 for better wireless connectivity. It also easily connects to compatible Android and iOS smartphones so drivers can use and manage their favourite apps while on the move. Switches located on the steering wheel allow for easy access to change audio settings and answer calls while driving.
For the absent-minded types, there’s now a reminder message which appears on the display when the engine is switched off. It reminds the driver to check that they have all their belongings and more importantly, have not left their children behind! It seems odd that a parent can forget their child was travelling with them and leave him or her inside but as we have read in many reports, that does happen and sometimes end in tragedy.
The Saga, being of an earlier generation of cars, doesn’t have the increasingly common suite of integrated driver-assist systems. Nevertheless, it still has many active safety systems that will help the driver avoid an accident. ABS, traction control, stability control, etc are all provided but it’s a pity that the Standard with manual transmission does not have electronic stability control/traction control. Again, this is probably a cost-saving matter but where safety is concerned, Proton should be working towards providing every customer with the best safety equipment possible.
Perhaps the Saga, being a legacy model, is constrained by having been developed along different cost structures and there’s not much that can be done to change that. Moving forward with Geely now providing its expertise and experience in more cost-effective engineering and manufacturing, the next generation of the Saga should be able to have more features, even as an entry-level model.
The current Toyota Camry was introduced in 2018 in Malaysia and in the normal course of a model cycle, it would be around now that some freshening takes place. Typically, this involves cosmetic changes and perhaps the addition of an extra feature or two so that the model remains competitive against newer rivals with the latest features.
Rarely would you find the model getting a new engine and in fact, powertrains used to be maintained for at least a decade because it cost so much to develop them. But these days, the market is more competitive and so changes have to be more frequent than before.
Dynamic Force engine
That’s the case with the latest Toyota Camry 2.5V which gets a brand new engine. It’s from the Dynamic Force family which is a new range of engines that use high-speed combustion technologies to achieve what is claimed to be world-leading thermal efficiency for production engines. With the significantly reduced energy losses, the 4-cylinder engine produces 209 ps/253 Nm, which represent increases of 25 ps (+13.6%) and 18 Nm (7.6%), compared to the previous engine which had the same displacement.
With the new engine, the development team also took the opportunity to upgrade the transmission, replacing the 6-speeder with a more advanced Direct Shift 8-AT automatic transmission. This makes the Camry the only model in its class (locally) to offer an 8-speed automatic transmission. Though having more gear ratios, the transmission is lighter and more compact, and operates with greater efficiency too.
The Dynamic Force engine was developed together with the Toyota New Global Architecture, or TNGA in short, which is a lightweight, high-performance platform used for this generation. Having developed the engine together with the TNGA has provided better optimization with the engineers having greater flexibility to enhance not just fundamental vehicle performance but also styling.
More intelligent safety systems
The other area which has received upgrading is the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system. This integrates 5 active safety systems which use a camera and radar. The two sensors scan the road ahead to identify other vehicles as well as recognize lane markings. The information and imagery is then constantly analyzed and if an accident is predicted, the driver will be warned. If no corrective action is taken, then the computer will take its own action, like activating the brakes.
For the new Camry 2.5V, the camera has increased recognition capabilities and can also detect pedestrians and cyclists during the day as well as at night when lighting conditions are low.
TSS includes a lane-keeping capability and this is useful on long journeys. By keeping the car within its lane, the driver will be less fatigued as steering effort is reduced. More importantly, it can warn the driver when he or she loses concentration and the car starts to move out of its lane. Again, if corrective action is not taken, the system will make steering corrections to guide the car back safely.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is part of TSS but earlier, it had limitations in speed. With the new Camry, the system has been upgraded to be active at all speeds. This means that the car can even slow down to a stop if the vehicle in front stops, and then resume moving when the vehicle ahead moves. It can make driving in start/stop traffic less stressful and the only thing the driver has to do is steer because a safe gap will always be maintained.
The final sub-system of TSS is Adaptive High Beam which basically adjusts between high and low beams automatically. This is to provide illumination that is as strong as possible but switching to low beams when necessary to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. Incidentally, the headlights have new Bi-Beam LEDs which deliver even stronger lighting.
Besides TSS, the Camry also comes with other driver assistance systems such as a Panoramic View Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake (RCTAB), Blind Spot Monitor, and Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS).
While the Rear Cross Traffic Alert was available in the previous model, the system in the latest Camry has been improved with the addition of an automatic braking capability (RCTAB). Besides just alerting the driver of a vehicle approaching from the left or right as the car is being reversed out of a bay, the system will also brake the car if the driver does not stop. This can prevent an accident or reduce the severity if it does occur.
Newly added, ICS is an advancement over having just sensors at the front and rear bumpers to detect obstacles or walls when parking. It is ‘intelligent’ as it will determine if there is a risk of the car hitting an obstacle like a wall or post and if so, the brakes will be applied to stop the movement of the car. This will help prevent damage to the car’s bodywork.
More scope for cabin packaging
With the adoption of TNGA, the 8th generation Camry could be completely redesigned with a wider scope than ever before. This allowed for a completely new interior layout combining functionality, advanced styling and a high degree of personal craftsmanship. The layout has a strong focus on the driver’s area and to improve viewing for the driver, the centre display screen position has been set higher, located above the centre air vents.
Besides the Optitron meters, the driver can also refer to the Head-up Display (HUD) projected on the windscreen ahead of the steering wheel. Information shown is the road speed, gear position, Driving Support System (directions, ACC display, LDA Display, Parking Sensor), audio details and TSS warning alerts. The HUD, adapted from aircraft displays, allows the driver to keep his or her eyes on the road ahead for better driving safety.
New futuristic grey ornamentation has been added to provide an elegant and neat impression. Based on a composite pattern with straight lines and overlapping an organic base pattern, the ornamentation evokes an expansive and layered feel that creates an elegant ambience.
Given the popularity of the Camry as an executive sedan, much attention has also been given to the comfort for the rear passengers. New for 2022 are power adjustment for the rear seats with the outer seats able to recline by 8 degrees for a more comfortable seating position. There are also larger headrests fitted for enhanced comfort. Adjustments for the seat as well as the rear air-conditioning, sun-shade and audio system can be conveniently done on the control panel within the centre armrest – something which you would find in much more expensive luxury models.
Also new for 2022 is the Tri-zone Automatic Climate Control system which allows the driver, front passenger and rear passengers to independently set their own temperature. This system is comparable to those in luxury models, and provides better individual comfort for every occupant.
ON THE ROAD
In earlier years, the Camry was seen as an ‘uncle’s car’, the sort driven by older people who might not care about driving dynamics and performance. But with this generation and its more aggressive, bolder looks, it’s hard to think of it that way. Of course, looks can only go so far and if it’s all looks and no go, then it’s still an ‘uncle’s car’.
The previous 2.5-litre engine gave fairly decent performance and provided smooth propulsion from A to B. With the new powertrain, there is even less noise emanating from the front, and refinement has been raised a notch or two. Power delivery is very linear, a bit slow initially but becoming more muscular as the revs rise. Overtaking can be done confidently as the midrange torque is notably strong.
Toyota’s transmissions have always been smooth and the Direct Shift – 8AT has nearly imperceptible gearshifts. You can, at the press of a button, alter the character to be more sporty but unless pushed hard, you won’t feel a big difference. There are also paddle shifters but it is likely that the ‘intelligence’ of the transmission will make it less necessary to intervene with manual selection of gears.
TNGA is certainly an excellent piece of engineering work, allowing the car to have the comfort levels expected of an executive sedan as well without sacrificing dynamic handling. Thanks to the lower centre of gravity and responsive steering, the car is easy to maneuver, and its agility belies its size (and weight).
The space in the cabin deserves mention and whether you sit in front or behind, there’s generous space all round. We have Toyota USA to thank for this: had they not rejected the original design in 1990, we might still have a conservative narrow-bodied sedan which had been proposed. By insisting on something bigger to suit Americans in particular, we got a car that is today bordering on being a luxury model.
Just as nobody ever got fired for choosing IBM in the old days (because IBM computers were so good and so was their service support), you can’t really go wrong with a Camry… or any Toyota for that matter. The notion that Toyotas are boring cars is also an outdated one and with the new Dynamic Force powertrain, you can have an enjoyable spirited drive while the comfort levels will also please the people sitting behind.
Since it first appeared, the Lexus ES has been among the most popular models in the brand’s range. In fact, it was one of the first two models the luxury brand offered when it started in 1989, the other being the LS flagship. The current generation, launched in 2018, is the seventh one and as is normal practice, updates are now due. Key enhancements for the latest model include cosmetic changes that refresh the appearance, with improved comfort as well.
For the Malaysian market, Lexus Malaysia is importing the ES 250 in three variants – Premium, Luxury and F-SPORT. The prices (without insurance) are RM295,663.50, RM329,910.50 and RM345,134.00, respectively. If purchased and registered before the end of 2021, half of the sales tax will be exempted.
“As one of the most accomplished executive sedans on the road, the Lexus ES 250 elicits admiration for its impeccable engineering and styling that satisfies any discerning taste. Combined with the Lexus attention to detail and constant quest for excellence, the improvements to the updated model will invariably retain the Lexus ES 250 as the choice sedan to arrive in,” said President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
Revised grille design
The ES is recognisable by its sleek coupe-style silhouette with the imposing spindle grille that identifies every member of the Lexus family. For the latest model, the signature grille fewer vertical bars and L-shaped patterns that emphasize lateral flow. It’s something that might not be noticed at a glance but will be apparent when you look at it long enough.
For the sportier F-SPORT version, the grille is different as well and has a mesh pattern composed of interlocking L elements with a dark metallic finish. Cut-outs at each corner of the front fascia also contain the black finish mesh with wider openings than the other two versions.
To complement the revised front grille, the headlamps have also received some restyling. For Premium version has Bi-LED Projector units with new inner bezel design. The Luxury and F-SPORT have ultra-compact 3-beam LED projector units with a distinctive Daytime Running Light design.
Besides exclusive exterior fittings that include a rear spoiler, the F SPORT also has its own set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a Dark Premium Metallic finish.
Enhancements within
The ES interior has been noted for spaciousness and comfort, especially for the rear passengers. Thanks to the intelligent interior packaging and a generous wheelbase, the level of spaciousness is comparable to larger models.
The dashboard has been updated with a new multimedia display for improved operability. The full colour 12.3-inch touchscreen (8 inches in the Lexus ES 250 Premium) has been repositioned closer to the occupants and turned 5 degrees towards the driver. As before, the multimedia system includes Navigation services for the Lexus ES 250 Luxury and also the new F SPORT.
With more portable electronic devices having the newer USB Type-C connector, the ports on the new ES are upgraded to Type-C providing easier connection without the need for adapters. The new models also now come with a Nanoe-X negative ion generator that improves cabin air quality – the first Lexus model to introduce this feature as standard.
For the F-SPORT, exclusive features are the light-emitting analogue clock with its own unique graphics, while the meter has an electric movable metal ring with a 3-D effect. The idea was first used in the Lexus LFA supercar and is found in other F SPORT variants too. The F-SPORT package includes a leather-covered 3-spoke steering wheel, dimpled leather-trimmed shift knob and sporty aluminium pedals and footrest
Proven powertrain
All three versions use the same 2.5-litre DOHC petrol engine (A25A-FKS), a proven unit with an output of 204 ps/247 Nm. Since the first generation, the ES has had front-wheel drive and continues with it, with power delivered to the wheels via a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission. For more efficient transmission performance, there is a Direct Connected Downshift feature which allows the transmission to skip gears when large throttle openings are detected (eg, when overtaking on the highway).
While the MacPherson strut front suspension and trailing-arm double-wishbone rear suspension are retained, the ride comfort and handling have been improved by increasing the rigidity (through adding a brace) of the rear suspension. Performance dampers are installed in the Luxury and F SPORT and these chassis-mounted dampers absorb even the smallest instances of frame compression and/or flex to keep them from generating any resonances that might generate interior cabin noise.
Improvements in Lexus Safety System+
One element of the Lexus ES 250 that hasn’t been radically transformed is its dedication to safety. All versions feature Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) as standard and for the latest model, the Pre-Collision System (PCS) has been enhanced daytime bicyclist detection by both a millimetre-wave radar and a monocular camera sensor. Pedestrian identification in certain low-light situations is also improved by increasing the camera’s sensitivity and dynamic range.
The other elements of LSS+ are Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go Function; Lane Keeping Assist; Lane Tracing Assist and Lane Departure Alert; and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) which uses advanced BladeScan technology.
To know more about the new ES 250 range, visit www.lexus.com.my.
The auto industry is still having most of its normal activities suspended, as ordered by the government, but for some, new model introductions need to go ahead as planned. Proton is one of the companies that planned to launch the new versions of its Iriz and Persona, and has gone ahead to do so today using online channels (which can also be used to make bookings).
Updating exercises for both models
The two new models are well established products but have been in the market some time so updating is needed. Proton DESIGN has incorporated new styling elements which continue to use the Infinite Weave with Ethereal Bow grille. As with such updating exercises, the designers have also taken the opportunity to restyle the bumpers and some areas of the lighting units. Such cosmetic changes do not require changes to sheet metal so they are less costly to do.
On the Iriz, the grille has a new profile with a red highlight whilst the Persona’s comes has more chrome for greater distinctiveness. The top versions of both models also have black roofs.
The LED headlamps (not available for the standard variants) have the convenience of automatic on/off as well as a ‘follow me home’ function which keeps them on for a while after the engine is switched off. This is to provide illumination while walking to the front door of the home.
Other new features include new styling for the 16-inch alloy wheels and new finishing on the rear combination lamps. There are also new body colours – Space Grey for the Persona and Citric Orange and Passion Red for the Iriz, which would be aimed at younger buyers.
Concept finally becomes a production model
The Iriz finally gets the sporty Active variant which was shown as a concept some 7 years ago. Back then, there was a trend towards adding ‘SUV elements’ to cars and Proton DESIGN came out with the concept. According to the Head of Proton DESIGN, it was one of those ‘skunkworks’ projects that the design team did quietly in their studio.
The Iriz Active concept which the designers at Proton DESIGN created as a ‘side project’ of their own.
“It wasn’t in the development timeline of the then freshly launched Iriz, so the whole premise was to project the future. Based on foresight and a hunch, I believe it achieved what it was created to do,” he recalled
Sportier lifestyle image
Though having the same shape and dimensions, the hatchback has moulding that runs around the body to add distinctiveness. A black roof with roof rails adds the ‘SUV touch’, while the 16-inch wheels have a new design.
The cabin of the Iriz Active has red highlights using embroidery on the front seats, door trim and carpet mats, as well as red stitching on the steering wheel and seatbelts with red straps. Red is also used on other areas to highlight the different forms. There are also aluminium sport pedals for a sporty look and feel.
More premium cabin for Persona
While the Iriz Active has a sporty interior, the new Persona Premium gets seats and door trim upholstered in brown leatherette (in the same shade that debuted on the Proton X70) to complement the enhanced interior design and give a more premium image.
A noticeable change to the interior of both the Iriz and Persona is the new 8-inch floating infotainment display panel. This ‘command centre’ has voice command functions that have been updated to control the air-conditioning system and driver’s window. Starting off with ‘Hi Proton’ and then saying certain commences, actions can be executed without lifting the hands off the steering wheel.
The display panel is located at the top of the dashboard for easy access, and the air vents have been repositioned accordingly. The controls for the air-conditioning now come with a digital display as well. Between the front seats, the centre console has been redesigned to provide an armrest and improved storage space.
Cleaner, healthier cabin air
Since last year, following the initiative by the Geely Group which Proton is part of, more attention has been given to ensuring that the air quality in the cabin is healthy. This led to the fitment of a N95 Cabin Filter which is standard in the cars. The N95 Cabin Filter, as the name suggests, can remove 95% of particles that are larger than 0.3 microns. Additionally, it can remove 98% of PM2.5 dust particulates, which is important to promote respiratory health. Apart from effectively filtering smoke particulates, dust and bacteria; the N95 filter can help to promote an allergy-free environment by reducing allergens from pets, aphids and pollen.
Both cars come with a comprehensive list of features and equipment and among them are no less than 6 USB ports around the cabin. One is even thoughtfully located behind the rearview mirror for easier connection to power a dashcam, instead of having the cable dangle down to the dashboard.
Tops in safety
Proton models are top scorers in ASEAN NCAP tests and the Iriz and Persona have scored the maximum of 5 stars from the safety organization. Crash tests have shown that the reinforced body structure using Hot Press Formed steel provides very good protection in collisions, while active safety systems such as Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control System help the driver retain control of the car in slippery conditions. Airbags are, of course, standard as they are required by law as are seatbelts for every occupant.
“The Proton Iriz and Persona have won many fans since their introduction, so we took a measured approach to updating them. The styling changes and addition of a new Active variant for the Proton Iriz will help boost their visual appeal while the changes we have made to the interior and infotainment system ensures they deliver better comfort and connectivity while retaining Proton’s trademark driving experience,” said Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar.
A Launch Package (with applicable terms and conditions) is offered with both new models. This consists of a Warranty Package (5 years or maximum of 150,000 kms); Service Package (free labour service for 3 times); and a Data Package for 5 years with 1GB each month (new Iriz Active and Persona Premium only).
