2021 Proton X70 Special Edition: First impression

Proton X70 is one of the most loved cars available in the Malaysian market. The SUV comes with a striking design, segment-leading features, profound ride, and the leading brand's reliability. Back in June, we saw the SUV in a new avatar, dubbed as the Proton X70 Exclusive Edition; the automaker launched this 37-unit limited edition in Brunei on the country’s 37th National Day. And, now the national carmaker rolled out the new 2021 Proton X70 Special Edition for the local market, whose 2000 units are up for grabs.

“By adding the Proton X70 Special Edition to our model range, PROTON has expanded the upper tier of our target market. While it is a limited production model, we feel strongly that it will appeal to buyers accustomed to vehicles with luxury features who are looking for a new SUV at a great price,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON Edar.

Here we bring our first impression of the new X70 SE covering all its aspects, let’s start with the price.

Proton X70 SE price

The 2021 Proton X70 SE price in Malaysia starts at RM 123,800 (on-the-road including an SST rebate that is available till December 31, 2021). The mentioned price also includes a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and five free labour services. The new Proton X70 SE sits on the top of the SUV’s lineup; it is RM 1,000 dearer than the Premium X.

Proton X70 SE exterior

Differentiating the X70 SE from the standard X70 are the exclusive styling touches on the exterior. These include a new pair of dual-tone wheels, which look similar to the ones seen on the Geely Boyue Pro. While their size remains the same at 19-inch, the new design adds a splash of sportiness to the special edition SUV. Added to the special touches are a black roof, rear spoiler, door mirrors painted in black, and an exclusive SE emblem mounted on the tailgate. LED headlamps, LED tail lights and a powered tailgate are also a part of the standard exterior kit.

Proton also added a new shade to the X70 colour palette i.e. Ocean Blue, the colour exclusively available for the SE trim is borrowed from the X50 colour options. Another exterior shade available for the X70 Special Edition is Ruby Red.

Proton X70 SE interior

Inside the cabin, the 2021 Proton X70 SE gets a darker styling in line with the black exterior touches. The cabin is predominantly black with luxurious detailing that elevates its whole ambiance. The main highlights are soft and supple black Nappa leather seats, an exclusive interior trim finishing, and new SE-specific carpet mats. 

Well, the rest of the cabin features remain the same, including a seven-inch LCD instrument cluster, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, connected tech, dual-zone air-conditioning, Proton Intelligent Air Purification System, keyless entry and engine start, six-way powered driver seat, four-way powered front passenger seat, three drives modes, and a 9-speaker sound system. 

Proton X70 SE engine specifications

Under the bonnet, the 2021 Proton X70 SE is fitted with the same 1.8-litre TGDi four-cylinder turbocharged petrol mill available with other X70 trims. The motor is capable of generating a maximum power output of 184 PS and a peak torque of 300 Nm. It is paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission sending power to the front wheels.

Proton X70 SE safety

As for safety, the special edition X70 comes with a comprehensive safety suite that comprises six SRS airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, auto brake hold, electronic stability control, traction control, hill hold assist, hill descent control, rear parking sensors, and reverse camera.

The advanced driver assistance features are forward collision warning, lane departure warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a blind spot monitor.

Interested in buying one? Hurry up as there are only 2000 units on offer. You can book the SUV online by paying a small amount of RM 99.

Also read: Export sales at rise for Proton despite COVID restrictions