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Proton X50

The Proton X50 was launched in 2020 and since then has remained largely unchanged. Proton seems to have stuck to the age-old adage of “if it is not broken, don’t fix it”. But that doesn’t help a car maker sell cars or remain relevant.

Despite its age, the Proton X50 has remained hugely popular. However, the competition is heating up and while previously the X50 enjoyed a considerable advantage over its competitors, they have now caught up and are breathing down Proton’s neck, and our national car maker is starting to feel the heat.

To ensure that it keeps its edge over the rest, Proton has introduced a number of updates for the X50, but they do not warrant calling the update a “facelift” in the traditional sense. That is because from the outside, the new X50 looks identical to the previous models, there is literally no update as far as the exterior goes.

The update then is most around the interior and some of the creature comforts. The updates are:

1. Powered tailgate:
While previously the powered tailgate was reserved for the top end models only, now all variants of the X50 get an automatic tailgate.

2. Improved NVH levels:
We have driven the new X50 around Proton’s test track, and while Proton says the new X50 has more than 20 improvements to the NVH levels, a test track is not the best place to try that out. But the car did feel refined and wind noise was barely audible even at well over 100km/h.

3. Updated Infotainment Head Unit
No unfortunately fans of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will still have to wait a while as Proton says it is still finalizing licensing with the two automotive software providers. But there is a Spotify music app though for music fans. Besides that the system comes with a new dual quad-core processing unit with 2GB of RAM and 64GB of storage capacity.

Proton says that this update results in 3.3 times faster computing performance, 33% faster boot up speed and 55% faster loading time.

4. Updated 360 Camera
Malaysia is a unique country where a 360 camera can actually make or break a sale. When all things are equal, a good quality 360 camera is undeniably important, and Proton knows that. Hence why the company has updated its surround view camera that gives crystal clear images in low light conditions. They did it by adding 3.3 times more pixels that allows the driver to monitor blind spots with 3D live feed when switching lanes. We tried it and it works brilliantly. Check out our video below to believe it.

5. Proton Link App

Allows the user to remotely start the engine to keep it cool before driving off and also control the locking and unlocking functions.

The updates may not seem all that great, but they are designed to make owning and operating the X50 a more pleasant experience.

The pricing of the 2024 Proton X50 is as follows:

X50 Standard: RM86,300
X50 Executive: RM93,300
X50 Premium: RM101,800
X50 Flagship: RM113,300

Besides that, everything remains the same for the Proton X50 and it comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, 6-times free labour service, 5-year data package with 1GB/month, financing interest rates from 2.28%pa and Proton insurance programme.

The first 5,000 bookings (registration by 31 July 2024), will enjoy a cash discount of RM7,000, trade in overtrade support of RM1,500 and value added features worth RM6,000, bringing the total savings to RM14,500.

Proton continues to show robust growth in sales, posting a 17.1% increase in April 2024 compared to the same month in 2023, with 11,025 units sold domestically and for export. This growth trend has also extended to the first four months of 2024, with total sales reaching 50,175 units, surpassing the 49,702 units sold during the same period in 2023.

The Malaysian automotive market as a whole has seen growth, with an estimated total industry volume (TIV) of 59,100 units for the same period and a cumulative total of 261,345 units for the year.

Proton has maintained its position as the second-highest seller in the overall national automotive sales ranking, with an estimated market share of 18.7% in April and a year-to-date market share forecasted at 19.2%.

Export sales have played a significant role in Proton’s performance, experiencing a remarkable 38.5% increase from 603 units to 835 units year-to-date in April.

Notably, Proton’s models have performed well in their respective segments. The Proton X50 regained its position as the top-selling B-segment SUV in Malaysia, with 1,642 units sold in April. The Proton S70 has led sales for C-segment sedans since the beginning of the year, with 1,635 units sold in April and a cumulative total of 7,463 units for 2024.

The latest addition to Proton’s lineup, featuring a youthful design, seamless connectivity, and advanced safety features, has garnered significant interest among Malaysian buyers, contributing to the brand’s overall success.

The Proton Saga remains Proton’s best-selling model, with 5,031 units sold in April and year-to-date sales up by 8.8% to 23,278 units. Other models, including the Proton X70, Proton Persona, Proton X90, and Proton Iriz, have also contributed to Proton’s sales volume.

In terms of exports, the Proton Saga leads the pack with 427 units sold year-to-date, followed by the Proton X50 and Proton S70. Overall, export sales have seen substantial growth, reflecting Proton’s expanding presence in international markets.

Memandangkan prestasi jualan domestik pengeluar kereta nasional Proton melebihi 150,000 unit pada tahun 2023, prestasi terbaiknya sejak tahun 2012, syarikat turut menetapkan semula  jangkaan di beberapa pasaran eksport. Salah satu pasaran terawalnya, Brunei Darussalam, menunjukkan  pertumbuhan luar biasa bagi tahun lepas dengan mencatat rekod jualan baharu bagi jenama Proton. 

Setahun selepas menjual 422 unit pada tahun 2022, jualan meningkat sebanyak 87% pada tahun 2023 apabila  789 unit kenderaan Proton dijual di Brunei pada tahun 2023. Prestasi luar biasa itu melonjakkan jenama itu ke  tangga kelima keseluruhan dalam jadual jualan dan memperoleh pegangan pasaran sebanyak 5.4%, naik satu  tempat dan meningkat 2.2% berbanding tahun sebelumnya. Jumlah Volum Industri (TIV) bagi negara tersebut ditutup pada 14,640 unit untuk tahun 2023, peningkatan daripada 13,000 unit bagi tahun 2022. 

Proton X50 menduduki tempat ketiga untuk jualan SUV segmen B 

Proton X50 telah menjadi model Proton siri X terlaris sejak diperkenalkan pada Oktober 2020. Lebih 100,000 unit  telah dikeluarkan dari barisan pemasangan di kilang Proton di Tanjong Malim, dan ini membuktikan popularitinya dengan pelanggan sama ada di Malaysia atau luar negara. 

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In 2023, Proton achieved exceptional sales performance both domestically and internationally, with its sales in the Kingdom of Brunei Darussalam reaching a new record. Following a successful year, where the company surpassed 150,000 units in domestic sales, Brunei showed remarkable growth, setting a new sales record for Proton.

After selling 422 units in 2022, Proton’s sales in Brunei increased by 87% in 2023, with 789 units of Proton vehicles sold. This outstanding performance elevated the brand to fifth overall in the sales table, capturing a market share of 5.4%, up one spot and an increase of 2.2% over the previous year. The Total-Industry-Volume (TIV) for Brunei also saw growth, closing at 14,640 units for 2023, up from 13,000 units in 2022.

The Proton X50, which has been the best-selling Proton X-series model since its introduction in October 2020, emerged as the top-selling model in the B-segment SUV category in Brunei. With 476 units sold in 2023, the Proton X50 accounted for approximately 60% of total Proton sales in Brunei and secured the third position in its market segment.

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Proton menikmati permulaan tahun terbaiknya  sejak 2013 dengan menjual 12,882 unit (domestik dan eksport) pada bulan Januari. Ini membolehkan Proton menjadi satu-satunya jenama automotif yang mencatat prestasi jualan yang lebih baik berbanding bulan Disember  2023, iaitu peningkatan sebanyak 1.3%, manakala berbanding bulan Januari tahun lalu pula, jualan meningkat  sebanyak 10.3%. Hasil daripada permulaan tahun yang kukuh, Proton mengekalkan tempat kedua dalam  jadual jualan dengan selesa. 

Pegangan pasaran syarikat bagi bulan Januari dianggarkan sebanyak 19.5%, iaitu 3.3% lebih tinggi berbanding  bulan sebelumnya. Jumlah Volum Industri (TIV) dianggarkan sebanyak 66,134 unit, yang bersamaan dengan penurunan sebanyak 15.6% berbanding bulan Disember, di mana jumlah itu meningkat akibat dorongan jualan kenderaan akhir tahun yang lebih tinggi untuk penutupan tahun 2023. 

Penghantaran model terbaharu barisan Proton, Proton S70, telah bermula dengan 1,442 unit dihantar pada bulan Januari. Pada masa ini, model itu mempunyai lebih 8,000 tempahan, mencerminkan permintaan kukuh dan positif  yang diterima daripada pelanggan. Model S70 juga memasuki pasaran eksport pertamanya di Brunei, apabila 15  unit telah dihantar sebelum pelancaran rasminya di sana pada bulan Februari. 

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Proton has revealed the pricing details for the R3 20th Anniversary Edition accessories package for the Proton X50. This exclusive package was unveiled at the MARii Autoshow 2023 earlier this year and is designed to commemorate two decades of the R3 brand, renowned for its contribution to Proton’s success in motorsports and the development of high-performance models.

The R3 20th Anniversary Edition accessories package includes a range of specially crafted enhancements for the Proton X50. Limited to just 200 packages, it adds a touch of sportiness and style to this popular SUV. The package components consist of:

  • Satin Black Vinyl Wrap: A unique wrap that adds a touch of sophistication to the Proton X50’s exterior.
  • R3 Aerokit: Comprising front, rear, and side skirts, this aerodynamic kit enhances the car’s dynamic appeal.
  • R3 Bonnet Stripe: A striking stripe that adds a sporty touch to the vehicle’s front end.
  • Sporty Rear Roof Spoiler: A distinctive spoiler to boost the X50’s sporty appearance.
  • R3 18” Lightweight Alloy Wheels: Specially designed alloy wheels that are both stylish and performance-oriented.
  • R3 Front Grille Logo: A badge on the front grille showcasing the R3 brand.
  • R3 Limited Edition Rear Tailgate Nameplate and Interior Dash Nameplate: Exclusive insignias that denote the package’s uniqueness.
  • R3 Headrest Embroidery: Customized embroidery on the driver and front passenger seats’ headrests.
  • R3 Carpet Mats: High-quality mats that provide both protection and style.
  • Proton Window Tint: Tinting for the vehicle’s windows.

This comprehensive package is available to buyers of the Proton X50 1.5 TGDi in Jet Grey and is priced at RM12,000, including fitting. Customers can order the R3 20th Anniversary Edition accessories package from any Proton outlet. Deliveries will commence from mid-November 2023 onwards.

Incorporating these enhancements into the Proton X50 allows enthusiasts to elevate their driving experience with style and flair. As Proton celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, it’s an ideal moment to recognise milestones such as the R3 brand’s enduring legacy. The R3 accessories package is a token of appreciation to the dedicated Proton fans who have supported the brand over the years. Proton expresses gratitude for its unwavering enthusiasm by offering this unique package developed exclusively for its popular SUV model.

Proton has achieved another milestone by surpassing the 100,000-unit mark in sales for the fifth consecutive year. This milestone was reached in August, a month earlier than in the previous year. With 13,955 units delivered in the same month, the year-to-date (YTD) sales for 2023 now stand at 104,602 units, which is a significant increase of 19.6% or 17,121 units compared to the first eight months of the previous year.

In August, the total industry volume (TIV) is estimated to be at 74,200 units, giving Proton a market share projection of 18.8% for the month and a YTD market share figure of 20.8%. The company’s volume growth outpaces the TIV, which is estimated to be at 12.2% for 2023.

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Proton achieved a productive first half of 2023 by attaining its highest overall sales figures since 2012. With 14,351 units sold in June (domestic + export), total sales have reached 77,321 units, an increase of 28.6% over the same month last year and more than three times faster than the industry’s overall sales growth.

Total industry volume (TIV) is predicted to be 61,900 units in June, translating to a market share for Proton of 23.2%. Year-to-date market share has climbed once more to 21.3%, an increase of 3.2% over the same period in 2022.

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Following a sluggish start to the second quarter in April, national automaker Proton reported a 35% increase in sales in May attributable to what it called a total industry volume (TIV) rebound.

With 62,970 units sold over the first five months of the year, the largest number of any brand in Malaysia’s automotive sales table, and a 38.9% increase over the same period last year, is the sales total. Proton’s market share is predicted to be 21.5% for the month and 20.9% for the year based on estimates that Total Industry Volume (TIV) recovered by 32.2% in May and closed at 61,600 units.

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The Proton X50 arrived in the Malaysian market in October 2020, generating a great deal of excitement at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic had created a sense of gloom. It was an immediate hit and today, the X50 has ascended to the No.1 position, not just in the SUV B-segment but is now also the overall leader of the entire SUV segment.

Although many new rivals have entered the market since 2020, the X50 remains a very popular choice for SUV buyers, being offered at attractive price points in all four variants with comprehensive equipment packages. In fact, much of what is offered in the X50 – especially the more premium variants – would typically only be found in models costing much more. Hence, like the X70, the X50 has changed the value-for-money proposition and offers consumers a premium product without them having to pay a premium price.

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