Should you wait for Proton X70?

There have been discussions, leaked details and more on Proton’s new SUV. The company recently put all the rumours to rest by inviting a select bunch of media for the first preview of the SUV at their Shah Alam facility. Proton also confirmed that they will launch the Proton X70 in a few days from now.

This is the first proper SUV in the local manufacturer’s portfolio. It has had influence from a Chinese product and has been heavily re-engineered for our market. So, if you were thinking of buying a new SUV, should you wait for the Proton X70? Or the other options in the market right now should satiate your craving for a new SUV? We dig deep into this with all the available information on the new Proton X70.

Existing Proton chassis?

No. The Proton X70 doesn’t use an existing chassis from the company. It instead uses the that underpins the Geely Boyue. Reports suggest that the Boyue is a very capable vehicle and is fast becoming China’s popular SUV option. The chassis though has been modified for use in Malaysia. For example, it has been engineered for the right-hand drive market. There are also certain trim as well as cosmetic changes that will appeal more to the Malaysian buyer. Proton’s idea of marketing the SUV will focus those buyers who are familiar with the brand as well as are looking at an SUV. Sounds strange, doesn’t it? The explanation is that those who know Proton, think of it as a budget brand. Hence the hesitation to go for the premium X70 SUV.

Whats with the name?

Protons always have identifiable Malaysian names. Saga, Persona, Preve and more. However, with this new nomenclature, it will be easy to identify the SUVs from the regular hatch and sedans that Proton sells. The X60 will sit below the X70 and thereon. As of now, the Proton X70 is the top dog.

The Geely connection

Geely, a Chinese carmaker owns Volvo Auto. It also has a stake in Daimler. More importantly, Geely also has a 49.99 per cent stake in Proton. This ensures that Geely platforms will in future underpin Proton cars. Knowing that they already have dependable platforms, it will be just a big boost to Proton’s future. It may also help change the perception about Proton vehicles by the Malaysian audience.

Tell us more about the Proton X70

The Proton X70 doesn’t have an outstanding design. It though has a formidable presence. Look at the grille. It has an inverted grille design that separates it from the rest of the ilk like the Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson and Peugeot 5008. The all-LED headlights are in with the current fashion trends. The very small fog lights too are LED units. Proton has also added 17-inch alloy wheels to the mix. The back is more in trend with bigger SUVs like the Ford Ranger or Toyota Fortuner. Head-up display, powered front seats with memory, leather upholstery, touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual zone climate control as well as three row of seats. Proton is likely to add a powered tailgate to the equation as well. Remote control for smartphone, 360-degree camera, air cleaner, smart air purifier, dashcam supporting rear view camera, tyre pressure monitoring system and six airbags. ABS with EBD, blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking are some of the safety assists available. While these may not be a new addition that one hasn’t seen before in this segment, the fact that these will become much more accessible to the public makes sense.

In terms of choice, buyers can choose between the Proton X70 colors of Jet Grey, Flame Red, Armour Silver, Snow White, and Cinnamon Brown. The Proton X70 can be booked at your nearest Proton dealership for RM 1,000.

There will be a lone petrol engine on offer. The 1.8-litre TGDi turbo petrol makes 181 PS of power and 285 Nm of torque. A front wheel drive, as well as all-wheel drive drivetrains, will be offered. A 6-speed automatic is standard as well. The fuel efficiency of Proton X70 is rated at 12.8 kmpl according to the Chinese cycle.

Protons are known for their value for money equation. It is highly likely that the new X70 too will be a part of this club. 

Should you wait for the Proton X70?

You absolutely should. It will be launched in a few weeks. Most of the trims and we believe there will be four Proton X70 variants, will have safety features as standard. The Proton X70 specifications too suggest that the carmaker has gone all the way with this SUV. It will definitely be priced lower than all of its offerings. The Proton X70 price in Malaysia should definitely set the cat amongst the pigeons. We can't wait to review this one.