2022 Proton Saga MC2 debut confirmed for May 12; here’s what we know so far

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton has been teasing the upcoming Saga for a while now and has successfully created a buzz around the revised sedan. However, earlier today, Proton Malaysia made the new Saga’s arrival official and even announced the debut date.

Proton Malaysia’s official Facebook page has listed ‘The New Saga Launch: New Journey’ under its upcoming events section. Inviting anyone on or off Facebook to the new Saga’s launch. If you are interested and want to be part of the new Proton Saga Facebook live launch, tune in to Proton Malaysia’s Facebook page on 12 May 2022 at 9:45 (UTC+08).

In the invite, Proton says that the new 2022 Saga “will leave you with a breathtaking experience and enjoyable drives.” Thus getting us all excited about the upcoming Proton sedan launch and all the new elements it brings along.

Although Proton has not disclosed much information about the 2022 Saga, there are a few things the teaser images shout loud and clear. So, let's see what we know about the upcoming Proton Saga.

Design

In Proton’s words, ‘the new Proton Saga is designed to make a statement, ever-ready to make a great entrance when you’re on the road’. Meaning we can expect a few alterations in the design language that will be more urban-youth oriented.

From the official teaser image, we know the car would ride on new 15-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels (limited to the Premium and Premium S variants). These units will showcase a two-tone finish with four spokes highlighted in silver.

The range-topping Saga variant body kit can be seen in the image. The elements are body-coloured rather than black, as seen on the pre-production prototype.

Another front profile teaser image reveals the new Saga’s Infinite Weave grille with a new circular Proton badge. The said badge first appeared last year on the facelifted Persona and Iriz.

The full-width Ethereal Bow strip on the grille is not chrome but red, thus giving it a Proton X50-like look.

The yellow light glow hints toward halogen lamps and not LED units as we were expecting.

The car is also expected to feature rear number plate garnish along with black door mirrors.

Cabin inclusions

The cabin spy shot images reveal the 2022 Saga to feature several revisions, like

• A redesigned centre console
• New Iriz-style air-con system
• Air vents with red tims
• A large cubby next to the 12V socket
• No centre storage slot under the vents
• Revamped cup holders
• Exora-like steering wheel with a new airbag boss
• A twin-dial instrument cluster with a monochrome LCD display with a red ring instead of silver
• 7-inch infotainment system with gloss black surrounds, new graphics, and a ‘please check your belongings screen (only on
• Premium and Premium S models)
• Android-based operating system

On the convenience side of things, the new Saga will feature

• Keyless entry
• Push button start
• Auto-fold side mirrors
• External boot release
• Leather upholstery

Mechanical upgrades

The 2022 Proton Saga will most probably be powered by the same tried and tested naturally-aspirated 1.3-litre Campro VVT four-cylinder powertrain. The unit generates a maximum power output of 95 PS at 5,750 rpm and a peak torque of 120 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The power will be sent to the wheels via a four-speed automatic gearbox, sourced from Hyundai.

Safety

Though not much is known here, the Saga sedan is expected to get a stability control system as standard. The ongoing model also showcases a strong safety shield with features like front SRS airbags, electronic stability control with traction control, ABS with EBD and BA, hill hold assist, front and rear sensor, and reverse camera.

Price

The ongoing Proton Saga is offered in three variant options - 1.3L Standard MT, 1.3L Standard AT, and 1.3 Premium AT. Each priced at RM 32,800, RM 35,800, and RM 39,800 respectively.
The 2022 Saga might experience a slight price hike with the new additions.

Are you excited about the new 2022 Saga? Let us know in the comments.

Also Read: Will Proton challenge Toyota and Honda in the hybrid space?