Proton X50 - What to expect?

After the renewal of the Proton-Geely partnership, the Malaysia-based automaker has only expanded. First under the deal came the Proton X70, then was the opening up of Proton production plant in Pakistan. Also, the positive effect of this relationship can be seen on the revamped edition of the models like the Iriz hatch and Persona sedan. Even the recently introduced 2019 Exora gets a high-tech cabin, check out its first impression here.

Cutting to the chase, we are pretty sure Proton is soon going to introduce an all-new compact SUV in the local market. And by the several trademarks registered by the automaker, X50 seems to be the most promising pick. Though not much is know about the upcoming Proton, we are pretty sure it will be based on a Geely vehicle. Seeing the Chinese carmaker lineup, the November 2018 launched Binyue seems to be the car that will be rebadged as the Proton compact SUV, the X50.

Here’s our expectation from the soon to arrive Proton X50 -

• Platform - The car might be based on Geely Auto developed BMA (B-segment Modular Architecture) platform. It was developed over a period of four years and showcases high-degree of scalability and flexibility.

• Dimensions - With BMA as its foundation, the X50 might showcase measurements close to 4330 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,690 mm in height. The wheelbase might read 2,600 mm.
• Cabin space - The new architecture with its unique characteristics work towards optimising the cabin space. We are expecting a 68.7 percent wheelbase utilisation rate for the cabin.

 

• Engine options - Proton is expected to offer the X50 with two turbo petrol engine options. The smaller one is a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder mill developing 134 hp and 205 Nm of torque. The second option is a 1.5-litre direct-injected 3-cylinder unit that churns out a maximum power of 174 hp along with a peak torque of 205 Nm. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission unit is most likely to be shared by the two mills.
• Equipment on offer - Similar to the Proton X70, the X50 is expected to feature an 8-inch touchscreen display with voice command, navigation, multimedia, Bluetooth connectivity, and built-in e-SIM functionality. Or there can be an HD floating infotainment panel with 8:3 widescreen ratio. We are also hoping for features like - dual-zone climate control with air quality management system, powered seats, selectable drive mode, electronic parking mode, six-speaker audio system, leather upholstery, electronic parking brake with hold function, and paddle shifters.

• Safety kit - The Proton new SUV will undoubtedly be loaded by high-tech safety features like blind spot detection, electronic stability control, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, 360-degree HD imaging system, tyre temperature and pressure monitoring system, HD driving recorder, and more.

That’s all the information (expected) on the Proton X50. Hopefully, we’ll get to see this new car soon in the flesh, but until that happens, we can only live on the assumptions.