Upcoming new Proton Exora – What to Expect?

Even though the outgoing iteration of the Proton Exora only made its launch back in 2017, it can be argued that it now feels a little long in the tooth. In order to address this hiccup, the homegrown carmaker has vouched to bring in a newer, more improved version of this popular budget MPV to the market, soon. Those waiting eagerly for the new Exora facelift, the good news is that the official launch isn’t too far off. With that being said, let’s try and find out what you could expect from the next Proton Exora.

Exterior

Right away, if you’re hoping to see a radical design transformation with the new upcoming Exora - you might not find it. However, just as with the facelifted Iriz and Persona, Proton will make some scheduled cosmetic upgrades to their fast-selling MPV as well. This means that it’s very possible that the facelift on the Exora will bring along a fresh set of bumpers, tweaked headlights and taillights, newer alloy wheels, and some other reworked bits and pieces as well. As with their other newer products, this facelift will also honour the Exora with the brand’s latest front grille design - in keeping with the whole ‘family look’. Under the skin, you’ll still find the same Proton P2 platform, and in its general external appearance, its silhouette will look familiar as well. However, it’ll be safe to assume that the boffins at Proton will have implemented more sound insulation layers to better manage the noise, vibration, and harshness levels within the occupant compartment.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Exora measures in at 4,610 mm X 1,809 mm X 1,691 mm X 2,730 mm in length, width, height, and wheelbase, respectively. Now it’s unlikely that the facelift will alter these figures by much if any at all. Having stated all that, the facelifted Exora might turn out to be a better-looking car, all things considered.

Interior

By the time of launch, Proton would almost certainly have revamped some aspects on the inside of the new Exora. If their previous new car launches are anything to go by, you can optimistically hope to find some better gadgets and trim on this one. Just as with its new Persona sibling, the upcoming Proton Exora will feature the brand’s latest touch-infotainment system, with a 7-inch display taking pride of place on the dashboard. This will definitely have a marked effect on the user experience, plus draft in more equipment such as a high-speed internet hotspot connection, native voice command inputs, and a few other minor touch-ups as well. The top variant will pack some other nifty features such as LED daytime running lights, side skirts, rear spoiler, two-tone alloy wheels, automatic cruise control, leather upholstery, and a roof-mounted rear entertainment display.

The rest of the cabin is destined to be almost identical in its appearance and layout in comparison to the outgoing model. Then again, one can expect Proton to make a few styling tweaks in here as well - especially with the seat decor, door, dashboard, and centre stack inlays. Riding the same optimistic train, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to hope for a better build, material, and finish quality with the new Exora facelift. Of course, only time will tell how many of these, if at all, come to fruition.

Engine

The Malaysian carmaker is yet to release any details on this front. However, Proton is working on an all-new replacement for the Exora, which makes any major powertrain update unlikely with this facelift. The outgoing model of the Exora is powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with dual overhead cams and multi-point fuel injection. The naturally-aspirated unit churns out 138 hp and 205 Nm of maximum torque and comes married to a CVT. Taking up to 11.3 seconds to hit 100 kmph, scintillating performance wasn’t the Exora’s forte, something that’s unlikely to change with the facelift.

Safety features

The current Proton Exora comes bearing dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control (ESC). However, even the top trim doesn’t seem to get additional airbags or traction control - hopefully, that won’t be the case with the to-be-launched Exora facelift. Obviously, you’ll (thankfully) find other vital aids such parking sensors and a reversing camera on the newer car, too.

Of course, as the official launch date comes up on the horizon, there will undoubtedly be more information and clarity available. So, keep your eyes glued to this section for more updates.