After the success of the X70, Proton is once again getting all the attention and headlines for its upcoming X50. The automaker has already previewed the new compact SUV with some details and started its production at the Tanjung Malim plant. However, it is yet to open the cards on the X50 launch date that seems around the corner.

Based on Geely Binyue/Coolray, the compact SUV looks damn cool and hosts several advanced features. Although the arrival of X50 is not good news for some, yes, we are talking about its competitors, among which the name of Honda HR-V is on the top as a segment leader.

It is Honda SUV that single-handedly created the B-SUV segment in the Malaysian automotive space in 2015. And as a king, it continues to enjoy a tremendous sales success over the last years and has established its dominance. Well, as a strong contender, the X50 is ready to shake its throne.

While the Honda HR-V price starts at RM 104,000, the cost of X50 is not yet revealed. Based on the X70's competitive pricing strategy, which made it around RM 25,000 cheaper than its rivals, the market expects the X50 price to be started somewhere around RM 80,000 - RM 90,000. So, what we can get better with the X50 over its Japanese rival at this competitive price is all we will tell you in our Proton X50 and Honda HR-V comparison.

Proton X50 vs. Honda HR-V: Dimensions

Specifications	Proton X50	Honda HR-V
Length	4,330 mm	4,334 mm
Width	1,800 mm	1,772 mm
Height	1,609 mm	1,605 mm
Wheelbase	2,600 mm	2,610 mm
Boot space	330 litres	437 litres

Size-wise, the sleeker-looking Proton X50 is slightly longer, wider, and taller than the HR-V; also, the wheelbase of the two models is almost identical. But when it comes to boot space, the Japanese SUV is a clear winner; the X50 number is far behind it.

Proton X50 vs. Honda HR-V: Engine specs

Specifications	Proton X50	Honda HR-V
Engine	1.5-litre direct-injection (TGDI) 3-cylinder	1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder
Maximum power	177 PS	142 PS
Peak torque	255 Nm	172 Nm
Transmission	7-speed DCT	G-Design Shift CVT
0-100 kmph	7.9 seconds	8.6 seconds
Fuel economy	6.1 litres per 100 km (expected)	6.6 litres per 100 km

In terms of powertrain, Proton will offer the X50 in two engine choices, both with the same capacity of 1.5-litres but differently tuned. In the above table, we have taken the TGDI engine that generates more power and torque. You can find the said engine under the hood of the Flagship trim. On the other hand, Honda HR-V houses the same mill under its three different versions. 

By comparing the specs, we can conclude that the Proton X50 has higher power and torque, even though it is fitted with the smaller engine, thanks to the TGDI mill and X70's dual-clutch transmission. Not only this, but the X50 also outperforms the HR-V in fuel economy and acceleration numbers. 

Proton X50 vs. Honda HR-V: Design

Based on the Chinese Binyue, the X50 boasts a young design and "Racing through Time" aesthetics. The brand's exclusive touches include the signature infinite weave front grille and the Ethereal Bow with red accents. It also features red front and rear brake calipers, a sporty roof spoiler, and a blacked-out roof, which altogether completes the sporty look. And most impressive of all, the top-spec variant features a Panoramic sunroof. Inside, the X50 houses a modern and funky interior decked up in black and red with satin-finished silver accents. 

When it comes to HR-V exterior design, the Japanese SUV has sharp looks with equal amounts of curves to make it feel contemporary and modern. Upfront, there is a wide grille with the sizeable Y-shaped face engulfing a hexagonal grille. The SUV's overall profile looks muscular, more like a coupe, thanks to the curvy roofline. Inside, it brims an all-black cabin with an elegant unsymmetrical design.

The styling comparison is purely a subjective matter, where everyone has its own take. But, if we have to choose one out of the two, the X50 looks more trendy inside and out.

Proton X50 vs. Honda HR-V: Features

Specifications	Proton X50	Honda HR-V
Headlamps	LED	LED
Auto headlights	Yes	Yes
Fog lights	Front, LED	Front, LED
Taillamps	No info	LED
Wheels	18-inch	18-inch
Infotainment system	10.25-inch touchscreen with voice-command assistant	7-inch touchscreen
Instrument cluster	7-inch digital	Advanced Multi-Information Combination Meter
Air-con	With rear vents	Without rear vents
Driver’s seat adjustability	Yes	Yes, 8‑Way
Seat material	Leather seats	Leather seats

On the feature front also, the upcoming X50 looks more promising than the pricier HR-V. It gets several advanced features and might include a remote engine start. HR-V has many tech bits that need to be upgraded now.

Proton X50 vs. Honda HR-V: Safety

In a price less than RM 100,000, the upcoming X50 houses full-fledged Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features, really impressive. However, the automaker has not revealed the full details; it is likely to include centering assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency braking. Other than this, the Proton X50 specs sheet includes six airbags (four airbags as standard), ABS with EBD and brake assist, stability control, hill start assist, hill descent control, electric parking brake, and rear ISOFIX child seat anchors.

But all these do not mean that HR-V lags on this front, not at all. The Japenese rival is also packed with a bunch of advanced safety features including six airbags, vehicle stability control, hill start assist, ABS with EBD, automatic brake hold, rear ISOFIX, a multi-angle rearview camera, emergency stop signal, and Honda's LaneWatch blind-spot camera.

Both SUVs have a five-star Euro NCAP rating, but the X50 has the upper hand just because of its price.

Verdict

By comparing these SUVs head to head, we can conclude that the upcoming X50 looks better with all the latest tidbits. Well, this is yet to come, and HR-V is there for many years and proved its performance. But given the X50 estimated price and specifications list, its explosive entry could be a trouble for the segment leader. 

Also read: Proton X50: Features explained