Proton Malaysia Archives

Proton In 2018 – Part 20: New X70 SUV Scores Well In NCAP Crash Test + The Official Launch Is Happening @ KLIMS 2018!

The Proton X70, the first SUV from PROTON, has successfully achieved a 5-star rating after being tested by the New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP). Details for the latest round of ASEAN NCAP tests have been released, showing the newest Proton model sits near the top of its segment for occupant safety. With a proven track record for manufacturing cars that obtain a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating to defend – the Proton Iriz, Proton Persona, Proton Preve and Proton Suprima S are all 5-star rated, PROTON’s engineers and designers paid close attention to every detail to ensure the Proton X70 would obtain a high score based on the latest 2017-2020 testing protocol. Under the new protocol, safety assist technology is now taken into consideration and counts for 25% of the overall score.

PROTON introduced Hot Press Forming (HPF) body structures, used to form the passenger cell of its cars, in 2012 and the same technology is one of the reasons why the Proton X70 is able to provide a high level of protection to its occupants. The HPF cell is supplemented with six airbags for all variants, ISOFIX child seat mounting points as well as seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters. By combining these elements, the Proton X70 received a perfect score for the side impact test as well as for head protection technology.

The SUV is also PROTON’s first model to be equipped with a number of safety assist features. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) are all part of the advanced driver assistance system introduced with the Proton X70. Thus equipped, the SUV was able to obtain a high score for safety assist technology. For the FULL report from NCAP on the Proton X70, click to download this: Proton X70 ASEAN NCAP Report FULL

“Thanks to the diligent efforts of PROTON’s designers and engineers, the Company has managed to extend its reputation for building cars capable of protecting their occupants in the event of an accident. Aside from the advanced driver assistance system that is making its debut on a Proton model, the Proton X70 is also fitted with various convenience features such as voice command, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC) and a 360 camera for safe manoeuvring in tight spaces,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

Proton X70 to be shown at KLIMS
Following a series of closed-door previews for invited guests and media, the Proton X70 will be making its public debut at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS). Five units of the car will be put on display and visitors are encouraged to get up close and personal with the first C-segment premium SUV from a Malaysian automotive brand. There will also be special display areas to highlight the technology, safety and performance aspects of the vehicle.

“PROTON is now ready for our SUV to meet the Malaysian public. Visitors to KLIMS will be given full access to our show cars and we encourage everyone to explore the various design, technology, safety and performance aspects of the Proton X70 by spending some time at our interactive areas to get to know it better. There are a lot of technological and specification firsts for PROTON with this model so we want to make sure all our customers are able to fully appreciate what we hope will be a game changer for the Company,” said Abdul Rashid Musa.

KLIMS will be held at the Malaysian International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur from 23 November to 2 December 2018. The Proton X70 can be viewed at PROTON’s display located on Level 1, Hall 1 and at Booth 1007.

Proton In 2018 – Part 19: Bookings For Upcoming New Proton X70 SUV Exceed 10,000!

PROTON announced recently that it has received over 10,000 bookings for the Proton X70 SUV during the official launch of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd, a new 4S dealer in Setapak. The Company also confirmed that it exceeded its 3S/4S outlet submission approval target of 109 and that more applications to open such outlets were still being received. PROTON’s highly anticipated first SUV, the Proton X70, was made available for prelaunch bookings from 8 September. Interested parties were invited to place a deposit at a PROTON outlet but since 17 October, they have also been able to use an online booking platform, allowing bookings to be made from anywhere with an Internet connection.

To date the response from Malaysians has been very encouraging as total bookings now total over 10,000 units of which nearly 2,000 were made online, thus confirming the Company made the correct decision to develop and launch the platform. “We are thankful to all Malaysians for the support they have given to PROTON since we started accepting bookings for the Proton X70. Despite our need to control the flow of information prior to its launch, the response has been very encouraging as we have received over 10,000 bookings with those placed online via our booking platform exceeding our expectations. We were unsure how customers would react to this new method to book a car but its success points to how cars might be sold in the future” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON (above).

“Now we ask for a little bit more patience from everybody as we make the final preparations for the launch of the Proton X70. This will be the first Proton SUV as well as the first car to be jointly developed by PROTON and Geely. We are working hard to ensure it meets the expectations of buyers and are also investing heavily in our outlets and dealerships so that we have the necessary sales and after sales resources to support such an important product,” he added.

Target for 3S/4S outlet approvals achieved…
Having stated its target to achieve 109 submission approvals for 3S/4S outlets earlier in the year, PROTON announced it has now exceeded the target amount. To date, 113 outlet submission approvals have been recorded, accounting for a 104% achievement against the set target. “We are very proud of this achievement as it means the market has responded well to the PROTON brand by deeming it as a good investment. I commend the efforts of our existing dealers who took the opportunity to stay invested with us as well as the new dealers for their faith and vision to see the potential for PROTON in the current and future automotive market,” added Dr Li.

“When JD Power released their 2018 Sales Satisfaction Index ranking (SSI) for mass market automotive brands, it showed PROTON had improved to sixth in the table with a score of 782 points. While we are not satisfied, we still managed to surpass the score of some of our major rivals, which is a sign our customers have responded positively to our efforts to serve them better. I believe with a concerted effort, we can achieve our target to be ranked in the top-3 by 2019,” he added.

New 4S outlet opens in Setapak…
Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Ming Heng) is the newest 4S dealership to join the list of PROTON 4S outlets. Situated along Jalan Genting-Klang, the facility has a built-up area of 3074 square meters and cost RM6 million to build. On-site facilities and amenities include 14 work bays with 12 service hoists, a customer lounge, coffee area, free Wi-Fi, kids’ play area, laptop and mobile charging facilities as well as prayer rooms for the convenience of customers. The body and paint shop is still being commissioned and will be operational by December 2018.

“The decision to apply for a dealership was made because Ming Heng is confident of the potential the PROTON brand has for the future. We are thankful our proposal was accepted and look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship that is focussed on delivering the best products and customer service to all customers,” said Eric Lee, Chief Executive Officer of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd.

Proton In 2018 – Part 17: We Get To View The New Proton X70 LIVE! [+Video]

As promised, slightly over a month after showing their new SUV to the Malaysian media at a static preview, PROTON have released more details about the Proton X70 through a second more in-depth media preview today! This second round of previews for the first co-developed vehicle by Geely and PROTON concentrated exclusively on the Integrated Cockpit Information System (GKUI), which will offer owners multiple user functions via apps as well as the option to stay connected to the car via their mobile device. Here’s our first impression following the first viewing of the static launch model today!

(NB: NO photography or any recording whatsoever was allowed during this media preview, so these are just my first-impression thoughts on the Proton X70 – Chris Wee, Editor Piston.my)

Additional Points: Proton X70 is equipped with a 1.8-litre engine producing 135kW (184bhp), Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Warning Assist, Blind-Spot Warning, Lane-Departure Warning, 360-deg All-Round camera, Rear View Camera, High-Beam Assist (automatically dips the high-beam if an oncoming car is detected), Park Distance Assist w/Guide Lines & Audible Warning. Claimed Combined Fuel Consumption 8.0L /100km.

Hosting the media exclusive event was Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer PROTON, Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy Chief Executive Officer PROTON, and senior management members of PROTON who explained the features of the GKUI and answered queries relating to the highly anticipated SUV.

Voice Commands allow you to ‘talk’ to your X70 to perform basic functions like switching on the radio, A/C, lowering the windows, opening the sunroof, as well as finding restaurants, ATMs, petrol, etc.

A car that connects users to the world…
Featuring an embedded eSIM card, the GKUI in the Proton X70 is preloaded with five apps offering services such as online radio, online music, navigation, weather forecasts and voice recognition. Access to the apps and other car functions is via an 8-inch Android based touchscreen interface featuring a 1280 x 720 full colour display with 16GB of internal memory space. The system also has Wi-Fi connectivity so the X70 can be used as a mobile hotspot.

To fully exploit the connectivity capabilities, owners can pair their cars with their personal mobile device via Proton Link and use an individual ID that is assigned to every buyer. They can then create a profile of their driving thanks to the on board telematics that will record data such as distance travelled, fuel economy, journey times and even keep track of service intervals. There is also a ‘find my car’ function that will be particularly useful when parking in huge and unfamiliar parking complexes.

If you’re familiar with using a ‘Smartphone’ (who isn’t), the X70’s functions are incredibly easy to operate, and looks good too, with switchable wallpapers and moveable icons. Software updates are free and ‘over-the-air’

“The GKUI system in the Proton X70 allows owners to stay almost constantly connected to their car. It’s an active two-way system that allows for multiple options to fit the preferences of individual owners. In the future, the ability to download additional apps will also be offered and just like mobile devices, it means no two cars will be exactly alike,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.

Display changes colour from Blue (normal), Green (eco) & Red (sport) according to chosen driving mode; fully digital, it shows different readings including the pressure in each tyre (TPM)

Because it runs on an Android operating system, the GKUI offers Android mobile device users full mirroring capabilities. That means apps owners have on their device can be accessed on the Proton X70’s touchscreen thus offering yet more connectivity possibilities. Apple OS user won’t be able to do the same though they will be able to connect to the X70 via Bluetooth to access telephone and contact list functions.

Definitely very Range Rover Evoque-ish from the back, especially with that tapered window-line, X70 size is comparable to a Honda CR-V…

Voice recognition allows true hands free operation…
True hands free operation of a number of functions on the Proton X70 is now possible thanks to advanced voice recognition software that allows the use of spoken commands. Access to the system is granted when an owner utters the phrase ‘Hi Proton’ which opens up a variety of choices that can be controlled simply by speaking a command. This includes operating the windows and air conditioning system and even accessing the navigation app to look for places to eat nearby.

9-speaker ICE system including a sub-woofer “as big as a spare tyre” in the back, plus 6 USB chargers can be found throughout the X70. Pictured Nappa Leather seats option only available in the premium variant…

“The Proton X70 is the first Proton model to use voice recognition technology, which is something we think our owners will appreciate. Hundreds of voice samples were recorded for each phrase to ensure the system would have a high degree of accuracy even when you take dialects into account. For ease of use, the GKUI will also type out each spoken phrase on the screen to confirm each command. Currently, the GKUI offers voice recognition for English phrases only as there are software limitations but we have ensured the phrases it recognises are easy to use even for owners who are not fluent speakers of the language,” added Abdul Rashid.

Why on earth is there a hidden USB port behind the rear-view mirror? Well, in case you want to install a dash-cam later of course. Why hasn’t anyone else thought of this?

Online bookings for X70 to begin soon…
In line with the high technology image of its first SUV, PROTON will be activating an online booking function on its website on 17 October 2018. Customers who are interested to place a booking for the Proton X70 will be able to book and pay a deposit for their order online, thus making it incredibly convenient for those who don’t have the time to physically visit a PROTON 3S and 4S outlet.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for Malaysians to book a Proton X70 so we think this is a step in that direction. To promote our new channel, we will run a promotion for three days from the date the function goes live, where those who place a booking for the Proton X70 will also receive special gifts,” said Abdul Rashid.

For the Proton X70 Colour Options, click to download this: ProtonX70Variant_ColourOptions

Proton In 2018 – Part 16: New Proton X70 SUV Previews Begin!

After months of building anticipation, the first-ever PROTON SUV – the Proton X70 – has finally had its public debut as PROTON Edar Sdn Bhd kicked-off its programme of exclusive customer previews in Petaling Jaya, from 19 – 23 September 2018. Customers, C-level executives from prominent corporations as well as potential corporate buyers were invited to see the interior and exterior design of the SUV, which is the first PROTON product to enter the rapidly growing market segment. Such a product is deserving of a luxury themed event, which is why the Company decided to present the X70 in a modern, sophisticated yet luxurious setting. (See more of the X70 here)

“Since bookings were opened on 8 September, the response from our customers has been overwhelming. The Proton X70 scales new heights for the Company with its modern and sophisticated design so we are organising previews to allow customers to get a closer look to understand the level of engineering and feel the premium materials we have used in this SUV. It goes without saying PROTON is very excited about our new model and we hope, after the preview, customers will feel the same way too,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar.

An exciting design story…

As was the case with the media preview, attendees to the X70 preview are treated to a comprehensive presentation on the exterior and interior design elements of the first model to come from the collaboration between PROTON and Geely. Drawing inspiration from the feline form, the exterior is sculpted with explosive energetic lines that references the family of big cats, especially the Malayan Tiger, which is why it conveys a sense of explosive forward momentum. The link to the majestic animal is further strengthened by the headlamps, featuring daytime running lights (DRL) that create a distinctive pair of ‘eyes’, making the SUV recognisable in any driving environment.

Further Malaysian inspired touches can be found in the grille that features a shape inspired by a bow to deliver an identifiable presence that also captures a sense of agility, speed and lightness. Proudly displayed in the middle of the distinctive grille is a large PROTON badge, framed by three black horizontal bars. Closer inspection reveal the bars have distinctive repeating patterns called the ‘Infinite Weave’ that is inspired by Malaysian craftsmanship and our rich natural heritage.

The same Infinite Weave pattern is carried over to the interior and presented in strategic locations that don’t stand out but subtly remind buyers of the Malaysian heritage contained in the X70. Luxurious nappa leather seat covers, high tech user interface systems and metallic accents combine to create an inviting and modern space that stylistically, is soothing to the senses.

Customer opinions and first impressions…

During the preview, customers shared their experiences and opinions on the Proton X70. The general consensus is, this is the best Proton model yet with many impressed by the design and features for the estimated price range. Mr Darren Ho, General Manager of Hong Leong Bank Berhad said, “I think the car is simply amazing and impressive, from the whole design development as a Malaysian car and also a car that will represent Malaysia to the world, I think it’s really great. Great looking inside out and the features are impressive too.”

“The best of PROTON that I have seen. Well done to the team in PROTON. I think this is the best car that PROTON has ever produced so far with the best design so it is going to be a hit in the market,” said En. Marizan Nor Basiran, Chief Technical Officer of WZ Satu Berhad. “The car is very impressive and it’s one of the new models introduced by PROTON that can be sold globally,” said En. Makhzan Hussein, Assistant General Manager of Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad.

“Outstanding! To be honest, I have never been a big fan of PROTON but after this preview, the X70 is really an eye opener; the design, the safety and other features are really impressive,” said engineer, Shaun Lin Jern Ming Adding to this statement, Shaun estimated the price range to be around RM140,000 – RM170,000 though he hoped it would be lower than that.

Previews across Malaysia…

The exclusive customer preview sessions that kicked off on 19 September are the first in a series of events spanning seven Malaysian cities that will run until 4 November. The sessions began in the Central with events in Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Kuantan, Ipoh and Kota Kinabalu to follow.

“We plan to reach nearly 6,000 potential buyers through the preview sessions and while that’s a small portion of the potential buyers we are targeting, it gives those who are considering the X70 a chance to view the SUV so that they can make a decision. Spaces are limited so anybody who wants to attend should visit the PROTON outlet closest to them and speak to the sales team there,” added Rashid.

Proton In 2018: Part 11 – Ensuring Aftersales Improves & Geely Moves Up 76 Places in Global Fortune 500 [+Video]

The Zhejiang Geely Holding Group has announced that the company has moved up a whopping 76 places in the Global Fortune 500 ranking, after posting revenues in excess of US$41.1 billion in 2017.

This is the 7th year in the row that Geely has been listed in the prestigious Global Fortune 500, and for full details you can download this: ZGH 7 Years in Fortune 500 Press Release

In other news, the inaugural PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held from 20 July to 19 August 2018. Hundreds of after sales personnel from PROTON dealers and branches will be put to the test to prove their skills, speed and accuracy in their areas of expertise. This is part of PROTON’s talent management initiative.

Designed as a platform for all after sales personnel around the country to showcase their ability and quality of work in handling customers’ cars, the competition offers an incentive trip and cash prizes worth RM50,000 to the winners. “The PROTON After Sales Service Competition is part of PROTON’s continuous effort to enhance the skills of our technicians to serve our customers better and also to reward those who show exceptional ability.

“Winners will be rewarded with an incentive trip to Shanghai, China, where they have the opportunity to visit Geely Headquarters and Geely Research Centre. This will be an eye opener for our local technicians to explore the full breadth of capabilities at Geely from design to development of the complete vehicle,” said Abdul Rashid Musa, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

“Exceptional after sales service is the key to retain our existing customers as well as attracting new ones. When we provide good quality services to them, we are able to increase customer loyalty and benefit from them spreading the news via word-of-mouth. Technicians or mechanics play an important role in ensuring this to happen. Throughout the Competition, our technicians will compete against each other, helping them improve their skill level. Ultimately, this assists to build the quality of our after sales services and take it to a higher level to be on par with global standards,” he added.

The pre-qualifying round for PROTON After Sales Service Competition 2018 will be held in 5 regions starting from 20 July. Top three participants at the regional level will compete in the Final at COE, Subang Jaya on 13 – 15 September.

During the regional level competition, participants will be given an Engine Overhaul task where they are required to dismantle and assemble a Proton VVT engine within three hours. They will be judged based on their speed, accuracy and troubleshooting competencies throughout the process. “With improvement in sales and quality month by month, we are confident that PROTON is on the right track to grow. We recognise that good quality products allow us to sell more cars, but great service goes a long way to retain and grow our customer base so this is what PROTON is striving to achieve,” Rashid added further.

Proton In 2018 – Part 7: First Of Many New 4S Centres Officially Launched!

Setia Gemilang Auto Sdn Bhd was officially launched as the first upgraded PROTON 4S dealer outlet, carrying Proton’s new refreshed look. The event was officiated by Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON, in the presence of Dato’ Radzaif Mohamed, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Abdul Rashid Musa, Vice President of Sales and Marketing and other senior management members of PROTON.

A new chapter begins…
The ‘new’ PROTON has begun for the dealer network, with the launch of the upgraded Setia Gemilang 4S outlet. This marks a new standard set to ensure sales and service platform are in tandem with the Company’s business model and objective to provide a new enhanced customer experience. “I am pleased that the upgrading exercise of the new 4S and 3S outlets are progressing well especially with excellent team effort displayed by our Dealers together with the team from PROTON. The new set up will stand to attract more people to the outlet, as consumers usually like to see and experience new things, new surroundings, new look and feel; and better ambience…

(cont’d) The interior and exterior are fitted with placement of different colours to display youthfulness and modernity, with significant spaces created for the kids’ corner, customer lounge and coffee area. Customers who enter the outlet will be able to enjoy the new facilities, comfortable waiting lounge while waiting to service their cars, with the convenience of free wifi to keep customers connected all the time. We care for our customers’ needs and we want to emphasise that customer satisfaction remains our key priority. Most importantly, we want to convey the message of a brand new PROTON moving forward,” said Dr Li.

New refreshed look…
With the launch of the first 4S upgraded centre, PROTON also showcased the new look with new elements. The new look incorporates new colours that represent global lifestyle, technology driven, youthful exuberance and caring attitude. The new look is to be splashed across the exterior and interior of the sales and service areas, for a fresher, dynamic and bolder PROTON.

On the exterior, brighter colours are incorporated to reflect a youthful image, whilst for the interior, the reception area is refreshed to create warmth for customers. There are also lifestyle wall graphics to give the interior a lively atmosphere. For more exclusivity, there are also dim yellow lights at the customer lounge area which provide customers with a cosy warm feeling when they walk into the area. For a wholesome effect, the sales delivery bay display contemporary graphic murals to create a chic and modern effect.

Proton In 2018 – Part 6: The Best Saga Raya Deal Makes It Less Than RM30,000!

In conjunction with the festive season, PROTON is offering its customers the greatest Saga deal with the best price in 10 years. In addition, there are also great savings offered for other Proton models. With this, now everyone can enjoy a good deal – from those who like the ride and handling of Proton cars, be it the popular sedans to the spacious MPVs, it is definitely an ideal time to get a Proton, with the Best Saga Deal in 10 Years campaign.

Proton understands how a first car can define a person’s life, especially for those travelling back to their home towns to celebrate this joyous celebration with their loved ones. The simply affordable sedan can provide convenience and comfort of long distance travel for families across the country. For this reason, PROTON is making life easier for you. The Saga can be yours from below RM30,000. The popular and durable Saga will provide a smooth and effortless drive along the highways.

Buy Proton car, support Malaysia…

In light of recent developments in the country and the togetherness of its people, PROTON, in support of Tabung Harapan Malaysia has pledged RM10 from every Proton car purchase to be donated to the government fund. As a caring national corporate organisation, PROTON feels the need to come forward to provide additional assistance towards this worthy cause, for the country and the people of Malaysia. This initiative will take effect from 1 June 2018 to 31 December 2018.

Great savings for each Proton model…

Additionally, there will also be great savings for all other Proton models apart from the best Saga deal in relation to the Hari Raya promotion and to encourage sales of Proton cars in our effort to support the Tabung Harapan. There will be savings of up to RM4,000 for Iriz and Ertiga, and up to RM3,000 for Persona. The savings offered are on top of the zerorised GST, resulting in an offer almost double the GST reduction.

“It’s never been a better time than now to own a Proton, especially with the zero-rated GST in force. Customers could potentially save between 12% – 18%, depending on car model, if we consider additional savings from zerorised GST. Our cars are affordable, and has fantastic safety features. The Persona and Iriz have 5-star ASEAN NCAP, HPF body structure with 6 airbags, ESC and traction control features. Meanwhile, the Ertiga has the best fuel consumption in its class. It is extra versatile and provides passengers with extra comfort with its rear aircond vents, large third row seats and ample headroom which are comfortable for the long journey back to our home town this Hari Raya,” explained Abdul Rashid Musa, Vice President, Sales and Marketing of PROTON.

“We are confident consumers will derive great satisfaction when they drive a Proton, as our cars are known for its driveability, durability and great ride and handling. So don’t miss this fantastic offer,” added Rashid.

The below table shows the total amount of savings customers can expect to enjoy under the Duit Raya promotion.

Model & Duit Raya promotion valid from 1 June – 30 June 2018

Saga – RM 3500
Iriz – RM 4000
Persona – RM 3000
Ertiga – RM 4000

Free 20-point inspection nationwide and at selected PETRONAS Stations…

Aside from sales freebies, PROTON will also be offering a free 20-point inspection at all its outlets nationwide, from now until 15th June 2018. The stop-check and go will ensure a smooth journey and a joyous celebration without last minute hassle.
The 20-point inspection will cover areas like brake and clutch pedal operations, all switches, lighting and indicators inside instrument panel, safety belts, battery checks, wiper blades, engine oil, coolant and others.

For those last minute travellers who would like to get their cars for the 20-point check, especially those travelling on long journeys towards North, South and East Coast, they can also head on to selected PETRONAS Stations (Refer appendix – table 2 for details), where the PROTON service team will be there to perform the necessary quick checks.

Free gift for lubricant service…

In addition, customers who service their cars using Petronas Syntium SE 3000 and Syntium SE 800 engine oil at any PROTON outlet will be entitled for either an exclusive inverted umbrella or the Rolson screwdriver set respectively. This offer is valid until 15th June 2018 or while stocks last.

For more information, customers can contact PROTON Customer Care at 1800 888 398 or email customercare@proton.com. Customers can also visit www.proton.com or its official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ProtonCarsOfficial.

For added convenience, customers can download the official MyProton mobile app, available via Google Play and Apple App Store.

Proton Iriz 1.3L Manual Reviewed

In this day and age, its difficult to find a decent econobox that is enjoyable to drive but offer decent fuel consumption figures. These two traits are considered mutually exclusive and as a result, will never be offered in the same car.

This is the general consensus for the vehicles of today and most often than not, that seems to lend credence to the notion that you can’t eat your cake and have it at the same time. I was a firm believer of that, until I came across a little upstart from Proton called, the Iriz.

Granted, this isn’t a performance vehicle, not by a long shot. Instead, its one that ticks all the right boxes of a frugal and simple supermini, yet still allow you the ability to throw it around narrow corners without having to worry about much understeer or instability.

See, Proton’s acquisition of niche sports car maker, Lotus, was one of the savviest engineering decisions the automaker has ever made. The British automaker, since the glory days of Colin Chapman’s F1 winning feats, concentrated more on handling than outright performance. At Lotus, the rule of law is that handling takes precedence over power.

He proved that a vehicle that had a power deficit compared to its rivals would be able to overcome this disadvantage by having a well balanced chassis and suspension. This recipe for success was proven time and time again by the Lotus team in F1 and other Motorsport categories.

This wealth of knowledge has allowed Lotus to create some of the most agile vehicles the automotive world has ever seen. And it is this same expertise that Proton has incorporated into the development of suspensions of cars like the Satria GTi, Iriz and Preve.

Granted, these vehicles aren’t in the same league as Lotus’ cars in terms of handling, but that isn’t the point we are trying to convey here. The Iriz, has a supple ride quality, is agile enough to react to sudden changes in steering input and stable enough to offer some decent driving enjoyment. It’s an affordable super mini that doesn’t mind being manhandled on occasion.

The ride isn’t that comfortable though, its supple enough for daily commutes but not enough to make long journeys relaxing. It’s leaps and bounds better than its predecessors but not enough to make it the ‘go-to’ car for road trips. Though stable at high speeds, the rather skinny tyres don’t invoke the necessary confidence needed to take the vehicle to its limit.

Equipped with electric power steering, the Iriz is able to whiz around city back lanes with relative ease, making parallel parking a one-handed affair on most occasions. But that in itself is a problem because feedback that you would get, is mild at best, which isn’t very reassuring especially when throwing the vehicle around certain roads.

When it comes to stopping power, the Iriz is more than capable of holding its own regardless of the situation. The feedback from the pedal is consistent and stopping power more is more than adquate as long as you keep to city speeds. This isn’t a performance car, and it needs to be treated as such. If not, and you venture outside the Iriz’s comfort zone, things may get a little bothersome for you.

That said, the charm of the Iriz is due to its slick shifting manual transmission. Though it may not be the best shifter in the world, but it gets the job done just as easily. The clutch is relatively light and predictable, the gears slot home effortlessly and the overall feel is relatively positive.

Driving the Iriz with a stick shift would have been more enjoyable had we received the 1.6-litre car instead of the basic 1.3-litre four pot. But latter is more than adequate at handling the Iriz’s power requirements. Its peppy at the low end but tends to run out of steam as the revs start to climb towards the top end.

The only major drawbacks with this particular variant is the lack of tech and creature comforts. Unlike the top end car, you have to do without the touchscreen infotainment system, comfortable leather seats as well as the convenient and user friendly switch gear. Though not a deal breaker, their absence does reduce the appeal somewhat.

Fit and finish isn’t that great either, because some interior trim pieces don’t seem to line up exactly right and certain imperfections are visible in a few different places. Proton needs to buckle down more on QC in this area and things should look a whole lot better.

Apart from the few minor gripes that I have, there isn’t much to fault with this Iriz. It’s an affordable runabout that is easy to maneuver, has decent power, offers excellent fuel consumption, seats four comfortably, supports your latest media devices and is able to charge them too.

If I were a college student or a young working adult looking for a new ride, the Iriz would be at the top of my list. Proton has come along way since its rather humble beginnings and the Iriz is a testament to that. The 5 Star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, ABS and Traction Control, and decent build quality make it one of the most sensible choices at its price point.

Piston Review Rating: 7/10
Proton Iriz 1.3L Specifications
Engine: 1.3L (4 Cylinder DOHC 16V VVT)
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Horsepower: 94bhp
Torque: 120Nm

Proton launches “Experience the Drive” contest

Proton Holdings Berhad has launched a new contest aimed at attracting potential buyers with attractive petrol and cash prizes. Called the “Experience the Drive Contest”, participating in it is easy, all you have to do is test drive any Proton model, then write a short creative caption or description of the test drive in no more than 20 words to be eligible to win weekly and monthly prizes.

The contest form will be provided to participants at any Proton Showroom or Proton roadshow. The winners will be announced on a weekly basis, following the end of each contest week. Weekly winners will receive a petrol card worth RM500 and monthly ones will receive a cash prize worth RM3,000. Two weekly prizes will be given away each week and one monthly prize each month. That’s a total of RM7,000 to be won each month from the starting date of the contest which was 1 March 2017 till the end, which is 31 December 2017.

Proton, for convenience sake, has asked that participants book their test drive through the MyProton mobile app for a more pleasant test drive experience. Through this contest, Proton wants participants to feel the time and effort the automaker has put in to improve on the safety and driving dynamics of the current crop of vehicles compared with their predecessors.

The contest seems to have been well received because during the first week, the company said that it has received over 200 entries and 2 weekly winners have already been confirmed. The winners were Mohamad Darulhisham bin Mohd Rashid and Saliza binti Ahmad from Kedah and Melacca respectively.

So, if you are interested in participating, visit your nearest Proton dealership or use the MyProton app to book your test drive.

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