Proton X90: Is it the best 7-seater SUV under RM 150k?

KUALA LUMPUR: A big brother to the X50 and X70, the Proton X90 is a seven-seater SUV that has been winning the hearts of Malaysian consumers since its launch in 2023. 

Priced from RM 123,800 to RM 152,800, the Proton X90 sits right under the RM 150k mark for most variants, which makes it an attractive option for large families and SUV enthusiasts in Malaysia. It grabbed the title of the best-selling D-segment SUV last year with a total sales of 3,553 units. 

Proton recently conducted a customer survey, highlighting the top reasons behind its SUV’s success. It reported that 30% of buyers preferred the X90 for its strong driving performance, while 27% liked it because of its large storage compartments, good value for money, and number of features compared to competitors.

Today, we are going to find out that is the Proton X70 really the best 7-seater SUV under RM 150k. 

Variants and pricing

Proton offers the X90 in four variants -  Standard, Executive, Premium and Flagship. While the top-spec Flagship comes with captain chairs in the middle row, the rest of the trims come with a bench-like second row.

The detailed price list is as follows - 

Variants	Price (on the road, without insurance)
Standard	RM 123,800
Executive	RM 130,800
Premium	RM 144,800
Flagship	RM 152,800

How does it stack up against rivals in terms of pricing -

Proton X90 rivals	Price (on the road, without insurance)
Mazda CX-8	RM 184,000 - RM 220,000
Hyundai Santa Fe	RM 185,888 - RM 205,888
Toyota Innova Zenix	RM 165,000 - RM 202,000

 Clearly, the X90 undercuts its rivals in terms of pricing, making it the most budget-friendly option in its class.

Stylish yet practical exterior

The Proton SUV has a striking exterior design underpinning the brand’s "Ethereal Bow" design language. Key highlights include - 

• ‘Infinite Weave’ front grille inspired by Malaysian culture
• Stylish full LED headlamps offering maximum illumination in all weather conditions 
• Front sequential turn signal lamps
• Geometric multi-spoke 19-inch wheels for dynamic aesthetics
• Front welcome lamps add a classy touch
• Auto functionality for the headlamps
• Auto rain-sensing wipers
• Power tailgate 

Spacious and comfortable

The X90 features one of the most spacious cabins in its price range, making it a compelling choice in the segment. It measures 4,830 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,764 mm in height and spans a wheelbase of 2,805 mm. This generous size ensures ample legroom and headroom across all three rows. 

The seven-seating layout is ideal for large families, where all occupants can comfortably sit and relax while cruising through cities as well as highways. The second-row seats come with adjustable back-and-forth adjustment and reclining functions for enhanced comfort. 

However, those who want a more premium experience can opt for the Flagship variant featuring captain chairs in the second row. 

Adding to the comfort are features like - ventilation function for front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control with N95 cabin filter, power-adjustable seats, remote engine start, seven USB ports (across three rows) and wireless phone charger.

While the X90 is a rebadged version of the Geely Haoyue, its suspension system is tailored for diverse and challenging Malaysian roads and promises a smooth ride. It can effortlessly absorb road imperfections to keep passengers comfortable during journeys.

Multiple storage compartments

Designed to cater to the needs of the whole family, the SUV features several storage compartments in all three rows, which are practical for everyday use.

I row - 

• Deep centre console storage
• Glove box
• Cup holders 
• Door pockets

II row - 

• Seatback pockets
• Foldable armrest  (bench-seat variants)
• Door pockets

III row -

• Side storage trays
• Cup holders

Boot space

• 257 litres with all seats up
• 1200 litres with the third row folded
  

Electrifying performance

All the variants of the Proton X90 are powered by a 48V mild hybrid system, which comprises a 1.5-litre three-cylinder TGDI engine and a Belt Starter Generator (BSG). The former generates a maximum power of 177 PS and a peak torque of 255 Nm while the latter is tuned to deliver 13 PS and 45 Nm. The system's total output is estimated at 190 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed DCT gearbox.

The mild-hybrid system enhances both performance and fuel efficiency. Its key functions include -

• Comfort Start: The engine restarts quietly and smoothly after stopping.
• Dynamic Boost: It provides extra power for better acceleration at low speeds.
• Full Boost: It delivers more power and torque when overtaking.
• Smart Glide: The engine turns off, and the transmission disengages thus saving fuel.
• Extended Shut Down: The engine shuts off when speed drops below 15 kmph to reduce fuel consumption.
• Auto Start-Stop: The engine stays off when the vehicle is stationary to improve efficiency.

The X90 outperforms its non-turbo competitors in terms of power output, however, it lacks an AWD option, which is available on higher-priced rivals like the Santa Fe and CX-8.

Advanced safety

The Proton SUV holds a 5-star ASEAN NCAP crash test rating thanks to its strong build quality and a wide range of active and passive safety features, including - 

• Standard - 6 SRS airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, auto brake hold, electronic stability control, traction control system, hill hold assist, hill descent control, reverse camera, parking sensors, door opening warning, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist.
• Variant-specific - Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Centering Control, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Sign Information, Intelligent High Beam Control, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Auto Park Assist, and 360-degree camera with 3D display.

Notably, the X90 alternatives offer similar safety tech but at a much higher price, again making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers.

Advanced infotainment system

Inside the X90, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment unit takes centre stage at the dashboard. This advanced and user-friendly system supports navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Although it lacks Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, the brand’s in-house navigation system and Spotify app are available as practical alternatives to keep occupants entertained and connected on the go.

Verdict 

When it comes to finding a stylish, practical, and feature-rich SUV for a large family under RM 150k, the Proton X90 ticks all the right boxes. This value-for-money SUV is possibly the best choice in Malaysia right now.

Also read: Proton e.MAS 7 Prime sets record with Malaysia’s first live-streamed EV journey