Proton Perdana - Variants explained

Proton, the indigenous Malaysian car band, is making headlines for its soon to be launched SUV, the X70. Scheduled for a later this year launch, the very first SUV from Proton has already grabbed 1000 plus bookings. And as time goes by, this number and Proton X70’s popularity only seems to be increasing. However, with the new car on cards, we should not forget the rest that has served the Malaysian car buyers for decades. Deemed as one of Proton’s most refined, pleasure-driven, luxury sedans, the Perdana is no less than a treat. This car from its very looks shout-out success which it tends to achieve by its bold statement-making design. With many rivals to compete, the Perdana has been able to win millions of hearts over the years. The credit for it goes to its in-depth understanding of the Malaysian buyers like none.

With a starting price of RM 103,927, the Proton Perdana is available in two variants -2.0L and 2.4L. Here, we’ll see how the two Perdana trims differ from one another. Let’s get started -

1.Price, the thing that matters the most

Yes, the price is the primary factor buyers consider before buying a car. Therefore, we thought to start differentiating the two with their respective price tag. Out of the two, the 2.0L variant is the more affordable option. Available in two options metallic and solid with the former being slightly expensive.

Proton Perdana Price List -

• 2.0L Solid - RM 103,927
• 2.0L Metallic - RM 104,326
• 2.4L Solid - RM 126,849
• 2.4L Metallic - RM 127,247

2. Engine configuration

As can be guessed by the variants name, the Proton Perdana is available in two engine options - 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre. Both the motors come with 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC setup and feature a Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) system. The 2.0-litre mill produces 158 hp at 6300 rpm along with 189 Nm at 4300 rpm. The bigger mill churns out 178 hp at 6500 rpm and 222 Nm at 4300 rpm. One more thing that’s common between the two engines is the assigned transmission unit, a 5-speed automatic.

3. Ride quality

The Perdana claims to offer top-notch ride quality all thanks to its superb suspension and braking setup. Both the variants are packed with independent double wishbone with coil spring and stabilizer at the front and independent multi-link suspension setup at the rear. Ventilated and solid disc at the front and rear, respectively takes care of braking. Further supporting the easy and fun to drive claim is its 5.7-meter turning radius.

4. Dimensions

Mostly the dimensions of a model remain same across its trims. This, however, is an exception. As per the Proton Perdana specs sheet, the 2.4L trim is slightly longer than the 2.0L option with the wheelbase remaining same. This hints towards an extended boot.

The 2.0L Perdana measures 4999 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1475 mm in height. With width and height figures remaining the same, the 2.4L variant measures 5020 mm in length. The wheelbase measures 2800 mm in both the trims.

5. Exterior and interior styling

When it comes to styling, Proton doesn’t seem to discriminate between the Perdana variants. The list of shared exterior styling elements reads - Projector headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights, front and rear fog lamps, shark-fin antenna, LED rear combination lamp, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The only add-ons on the 2.4L variant being the HID with auto leveling headlamp functioning and a full body kit with a rear spoiler.

On the inside, both the trims feature leather-wrapped steering with audio controls, tilt and telescopic steering, dual-zone climate control, and 8-way power adjustable driver seat. Justifying its higher price tag, the 2.4L option gets a 4-way power adjustable passenger seat, leather seat and door trims, and black-beige interior trim.

6. Features on offer

The 2.0L option only misses out paddle shifter, subwoofers, and GPS navigation from the list of amenities. The standard features on offer are

• 6.2-inch TFT screen with radio, CD, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX
• 6-speakers
• Auto cruise
• Remote power window

7. Safety profile

One thing that we absolutely love about Proton Perdana is that when it comes to safety, the car doesn’t seem to discriminate. It’s only the Electronic Stability Control that is limited to the 2.4L option. Rest all the options in the Perdana safety basket are shared by the two. It includes - dual front SRS airbags, side airbags, ABS with EBD, active front headrest, auto headlamps, seatbelt pre-tensioners with load limiter, front and rear parking sensor, reverse camera, and ISOFIX.

So, which one should you buy?

Well, by the looks of it both the variants are more or less same. Also, there is not much to differentiate in regard to feature and safety. So, it all boils down to power. If the 2.0-litre mill is not sufficient to drive you crazy than the 2.4-litre motor is the obvious choice left.