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Geely and Proton: The Inspired Connection

November 3, 2023 By Rokkit

global-alliance-geely-and-proton — Global alliance (Geely and Proton)

Written by Proton SA

In the ever-evolving landscape of the motor industry, there are many partnerships and strategic alliances, and these connections become the key to success. One such partnership is the collaboration between Geely and Proton. But who exactly is Geely, and what links them with Proton?

energy-efficient-proton-engine — (Energy-efficient Proton engine)

Who is Geely?

Founded in 1986, Geely has since risen through the ranks to earn a coveted spot as a Fortune 500 company. What distinguishes Geely is its status as one of the largest privately owned automakers in China. The company boasts an impressive portfolio that includes passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and electric vehicles. Geely’s acquisition of renowned brands like Volvo and Lotus has been a testament to its commitment to growth and innovation. Geely’s DNA is rooted in research and development, innovative technologies, and a determination to expand its presence in the global automotive market.

The Geely and Proton Connection

Geely and Proton are more than just names in the automotive world; they share a strategic partnership and ownership arrangement. This partnership has proven to be a game-changer for both companies.

In 2017, Geely made a significant move by acquiring a substantial 49.9% stake in Proton Holdings Berhad, the parent company of Proton. This acquisition was a strategic step for Geely to strengthen its foothold in the Southeast Asian automotive market. It also granted Geely access to Proton’s manufacturing capabilities and extensive distribution network.

The impact of this collaboration was significant for Proton as well. With Geely’s investment and expertise, Proton initiated a revitalization process. This makeover included improvements in vehicle quality, the introduction of new models, and the utilisation of Geely’s technology and platforms.

One of the highlights of this partnership was the joint development and launch of new vehicles based on a Geely platform and even making use of the Volvo drive-train. This cross-pollination of ideas and technologies between the two companies resulted in vehicles that are not only technologically advanced but also cater to a broader audience.

Proton Leveraged Geely’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Technology

Moreover, Proton leveraged Geely’s electric vehicle (EV) technology. This allowed Proton to venture into the growing EV market (with the Proton X90) more effectively, aligning with the global trend towards sustainability and eco-friendly mobility solutions.

The synergy between Geely and Proton has not only expanded their market presence but also enhanced their competitiveness in the automotive industry. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in an industry that thrives on continuous evolution.

proton-sedan-saga — (Proton Sedan – Saga)

Geely and Proton’s partnership is a fascinating journey of mutual growth and success. While Geely has solidified its presence in the Southeast Asian automotive market, Proton has undergone a transformation that has elevated its status and product offerings worldwide. This partnership underscores the importance of strategic alliances in the automotive industry and showcases the innovation potential when two giants join forces.

Proton X70 adds touch of class to Malaysian carmaker’s return

February 21, 2023 By Rokkit

Written By: The Citizen (11/02/2023) Proton X70 adds touch of class to Malaysian carmaker’s return

This SUV might not stand out against flashier Chinese offerings, but its a gem on the move.

Proton affordable luxury — The Proton X70’s styling is fairly conservative.

Proton’s pay-off line is “affordable luxury” and after spending a week in the flagship X70 Premium X, we can most definitely vouch for the luxury part.

The affordable part is a slightly harder sell as its price tag of R639 900 is out of most motorists’ reach. But there is no denying that the X70 offers a lot of car for that money and lest we forget … a fairly luxurious one at that.

For a carmaker looking to get back into the South African market with a big bang, the X70’s styling is probably a bit too conservative to stand out from the crowd flooded by flashy Chinese offerings. If it wasn’t for the big “Proton X70” lettering on the side of our dealership test car that spent a week at The Citizen Motoring, you’d have forgiven people for not noticing that it’s any different from the other seven modern day SUVs next to it.

Proton X70 affordable luxury — Brown Nappa leather works well inside the Proton X70.

Elegant interior

The same applies to the cabin. Making up for the lack of immediate wow factor is elegant finishing.

Brushed aluminium on the fascia, centre console and around the door handles, soft-touch black leather panels and piano black inserts all combine very well with the model-specific brown Nappa leather seats to lend the Proton X70 Premium X a generous touch of class. Adding to the comfort of the driver is a driver’s seat with electric lumbar support along with seat ventilation, multifunction leather-wrapped steering wheel and fully digital instrument cluster.

You could argue that the eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system is maybe a bit small by modern day digitalisation standards. But taking into account all the other creature comforts, along with the nine-speaker Kenwood sound system it is hooked up to, the size-issue dwarfs in the overall picture.

There is no shortage of leg and headroom in the second row, while boot space is very generous.

Should you have reserved your opinion of the X70 up until when you press the start button, you are bound to make up your mind during the drive. All the shining lights of the bells and whistles of the influx of SUVs at value-orientated price points often make buyers overlook a crucial part of the car – the drive. Not so with the X70.

The Proton X70 Premium X rides on 19-inch alloys.

Proton X70 a pleasure

Once you experience the drive, you will appreciate the fact that the Proton X70 was built on the same platform as the Volvo XC40. The ride is solid and the steering a pleasure, which smacks of a well-built car.

It is powered by the same 130kW/255Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine as the smaller Proton X50, with the buttery smooth seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sending the twist to the front wheels.

Like the X50, its big brother the X70’s fuel consumption is probably our biggest gripe. A week of city traffic with very little open road driving resulted in fuel consumption of 10.6 L/100 km, which is not great.

Fuel consumption apart, there is very little not to like about the Proton X70. It is classy, comfortable, spacious, boasts a jam-packed list of specifications and most importantly, is a pleasure to drive.

Proton achieves impressive milestone after re-entering South Africa

February 21, 2023 By Rokkit

Written By: TopAuto (31/01/2023) Proton achieves impressive milestone after re-entering South Africa

The local arm of Proton recently took delivery of the 1,000th customer vehicle shipped to South Africa from Malaysia just over two months after the manufacturer officially re-entered the market following a 10-year hiatus.

This makes South Africa the second-largest export destination in terms of volume out of the 14 countries the Asian automaker sells vehicles in, despite being the newest addition.

Proton re-enters South Africa

In April 2022, Proton signed with CMH Group to be its domestic distributor and shortly thereafter opened the doors of 20 dealerships while simultaneously launching the X50 and X70 SUVs.

Since then, the company has seen “a steady increase in sales across South Africa” and it aims to double its purchase volumes in 2023, a goal that will be aided by the launch of another SUV and two new sedans.

“With the new vehicles that will be entering the South African market in 2023, we can positively say that we will have a car for everyone,” said Marius Smal, managing director of Proton South Africa.

“Meeting the market halfway, in regards to product and pricing, is never an easy task, but 2023 brings opportunity for more customers.”

Proton re-enters South Africa - X50 and X70

What’s on offer

At present, Proton has two products in South Africa in the form of the sporty X50 starting at R449,900, and the family-oriented X70 which retails from R529,900.

The smaller of the two SUVs is offered in four grades – Standard, Luxury, Executive, and Premium – each one driven by a 1.5-litre, turbo-petrol motor mated to a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission that turns the front wheels.

This setup pumps out 110kW and 226Nm in the three more affordable variations, whereas in the range-topping Premium model it puts out 130kW and 255Nm.

Every X50 brings a generous array of standard features, too, including LED headlamps with daytime running lights, an 8-inch infotainment system offering Bluetooth, cruise control, keyless entry and start, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, ABS with brake assist, hill-hold assist, and hill descent control.

The larger X70 is equipped with the same powertrain as the X50, generating 130kW and 255Nm in every specification, though unlike its smaller sibling, it can also be had with an all-wheel-drive system in the Executive trim level.

The X70 then comes in Standard, Executive, and Premium X offerings, providing buyers with automatic headlamps, LED fog lamps, an 8-inch media display with Bluetooth, a digital driver’s display, a leather multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control, ABS with brake assist, auto brake hold, hill-descent assist, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, and 17-inch wheels.

Proton X50 Review – 1.5T Executive: We Were Not Expecting This

February 21, 2023 By Rokkit

Written By: carshop.co.za (12/12/2022) Proton X50 Review – 1.5T Executive: We Were Not Expecting This

Calvin Fisher spends a week with the new Proton X50 SUV and with it finds an unassuming gem. Has much to report.

A quick history lesson

Proton. Let’s unpack this mercurial badge, shall we? And with it, the great geography lesson it entails. Proton Holdings is the same Malaysian auto firm we remember from a decade ago, with vehicles such as the Savvy and Saga. Cars that are famous for existing and not much else.

The marque was recently acquired by Chinese manufacturer, Geely – but benefits from many features and traits of Swedish stalwart, Volvo. Why? Because Geely owns Volvo, lending it some much-needed gravitas and an upgrade in quality. Ditto it would seem, for Proton. With a genealogy this contrived, I was expecting a car equally as muddled. So, imagine my surprise upon delivery of the Proton X50, and finding in it a well-consolidated compact SUV. There’s a lot to love here.

So what do we have here?

Its full name is the Proton X50 Executive and it sells for R535,900. The only model dearer is the flagship Premium derivative for R579,900 – but my test unit is hardly barren. Across the range, which also includes a Standard (R449,900) and Luxury model (R499,900), you’ll find the same turbocharged three-cylinder 1477cc petrol motor. It brandishes 110kW and 226Nm across all but the Premium model where they’ve turned up the wick to the tune of 130kW and 255Nm.

Proton X50 Review — Volvo derived 3-cylinder turbopetrol good for 110kW and 226Nm

You’ll find numbers similar to these in another engine, the Volvo T3 – hinting at some commonality. Which I can believe, because the Proton X50’s motor is a gem – smooth and tractable and with a pleasant note to it. It’s been paired with a 7-speed dual clutch auto, which sends power exclusively to the front wheels. The electric power steering is well weighted, although typically numb at the centre. Par for the course in this segment, if I’m being honest and not at all unnerving, designed that way to deal with the tedium of traffic.

Our Executive unit wears 18-inch alloys and they look great in the X50’s gaping arches. The visuals are non-offensive, it’s arguably a good-looking car, if not striking or purposefully divisive. I wish they’d done more with it yet cannot fault it for its pure form. Black plastics contrast starkly with the white paint, and then there’s the inclusion of a bold body-coloured rear diffuser wing. There are hints of other vehicles in its styling (Ford Kuga?) but nothing you’d accuse it of copying outright. The result remains cohesive, attractive – and a clue as to what happens when you climb inside.

Moving on/in to the bridge

I’ve touched on the engine, alluded to the performance, but what about the theatre of operations – the cabin? In short. It’s a treat, the oxblood hide reminiscent of the Range Rover Evoque I had years ago. And ditto the Lexus IS350 I replaced it with. Good company then, Proton. I’ve argued in the past that all that is required for success in this industry is an SUV with Android Auto and a fancy interior. Naturally, the X50 is all of those things, but wrapped into a quality package that stuns.

I’m not kidding, this level of competence and restraint on display here is rare in a segment that is drowning in a deluge of Chinese options. How much of that is testament to the Volvo connection is up for debate.

And yes, I said restraint. It’s easy to impress when your cabin is chock full of fancy lights, big screens and chintzy surfaces. Proton have avoided going that route with a tasteful, leathery living space that manages to feel contemporary yet somehow again, not derivative. I genuinely felt as though I was piloting a premium machine, and a smooth aspirated three-pot upfront only fortified this experience.

The seats were appreciably comfy, the controls pleasantly tactile and the appointments as I’ve mentioned before, were abundant. Paddle shifters, driving modes and a start button for the driver, whilst the other occupants can enjoy the 10.25-inch infotainment centre I alluded to earlier, with its six-speaker sound system. The list of safety features is just as compelling, running the gamut from ABS, EBD, ESP and Brake Assist (so many acronyms) to parking sensors, a three hundred and sixty-degree camera and more.

Okay, let’s wrap this up

As with any ‘new’ brand, it’s hard to go ‘all-in’ on a debut product, there’s just no telling how they’ll ultimately perform in the rigours of real life. But I suspect that the Proton has what it takes to do the distance, literally and figuratively in a soft roader-loving Mzansi.

Proton X70 (2022) Review

February 21, 2023 By Rokkit

By: cars.co.za (24/11/2022) Proton X70 (2022) Review

The Proton X70 is one of two models that have spearheaded the (now Chinese-owned) Malaysian brand’s return to South Africa. Backed by Geely, the new Protons compete in the hotly contested crossover/SUV space. We get behind the ‘wheel of the larger (of the two) X70 in entry-level 1.5 Standard guise.

We like: Exceptional ride quality and comfort, punchy powertrain, refinement

We don’t like: Dated cabin, no modern connectivity, fussy ergonomics and infotainment-system user experience

FAST FACTS

Model: Proton X70 1.5 Standard
Price: R529 900 (November 2022)
Engine: 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbopetrol
Power/Torque: 130 kW and 255 Nm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch transmission
Fuel consumption: 7.8 L/100 km
0-100 kph: 9.8 seconds
Luggage capacity: 515 litres

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Where does the new Proton X70 fit in?

Proton X70 (2022) Review - Parked in a vineyard

The X70 is one of two models in the new Proton line-up.

Do you remember Proton? Before it departed the local market in 2015, the brand offered hatchbacks, such as the Gen2, Savvy and Satria Neo (with a ‘handling by Lotus’ sticker), as well as the Arena small bakkie in South Africa. Speaking of Lotus, Proton owned the British marque until 2017, when both were acquired by Geely, which also has Volvo in its portfolio.

The numerous brands that are under Geely’s control share many technologies; that way, the Chinese automotive giant doesn’t need to develop brand-specific platforms and engines – at great cost – and it can bring models with high component commonality to market a lot faster.

Earlier this year, Proton returned to the Republic with the X50 and X70. While we’re well acquainted with the X50 – watch the video review – this is our first encounter with its bigger sibling, the X70. There are 4 derivatives (in 3 trim levels) and all of them are powered by a 3-cylinder turbopetrol engine. The Executive is also available in all-wheel-drive guise.

If you’re shopping for a new medium SUV at around the R500k mark, you are truly spoilt for choice. The X70 goes up against models such as the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, Haval h4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Peugeot 3008, Toyota RAV4 and Volkswagen Tiguan. The entry point to the range – the 1.5 Standard – is the subject of this review.

Visit our Buyer’s Guide to see which is the best SUV for you

Proton X70 (2022) Review - Vineyard rear view

Proton X70 The X70’s exterior styling is pretty generic, but that can be said of many medium SUVs in the market.

How the X70 fares in terms of…

Performance and economy

One of the advantages of being part of the Geely family is that Proton gets its powertrains from Volvo. The X70’s 1.5-litre turbopetrol motor produces 130 kW/255 Nm and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Those peak outputs seem quite sufficient, but how well does the 1.5 Standard perform in reality? According to our test equipment, the test unit accelerated from 0 to 100 kph in 9.56 sec, which was fractionally quicker than Proton’s claimed figure. Better yet, the front-wheel-driven X70 maintained impressive traction

The X70 is powered by a Volvo-sourced 3-cylinder engine.

Unlike most 3-cylinder motors, which tend to vibrate more than their 4-cylinder counterparts, the Proton’s engine is impressively refined, although it still emits that characteristic 3-pot thrum. The sound is surprisingly pleasant/purposeful… as if the engine’s purring merrily.

The 7-speed dual-clutch (automatic) transmission is well-calibrated to the performance characteristics of the engine and delivers quick, but smooth, gearshifts. As a result, the X70’s in-gear acceleration is punchy, which is a boon when overtaking vehicles at freeway speeds.

The dual-clutch automatic transmission shifts smoothly and is well-calibrated to the engine’s performance characteristics.

The downside to that peppiness is poor fuel economy. The X70 is no lightweight (it weighs just over 1 600 kg), so its 1.5-litre engine must work hard to propel that heft at a reasonable pace. Proton claims the X70 will, on average, consume 7.8 L/100 km, but even when we adopted a conservative driving style, we couldn’t achieve better than 9.8 L/100 km (indicated).

Ride and handling

The great thing about driving a product of an all-new brand (or, in Proton’s case, one that is lightyears removed from the brand we knew) is that you don’t have any preconceived notions about the model. When we review a new product from an established player in the market, we tend to have (usually high) expectations of that vehicle. This case was different – we had no idea what to expect. Did we, for example, expect the X70 to ride exceptionally well? No!

Proton X70 (2022) Review - Aluminium Wheels

High-profile tyres contribute to the Proton’s exceptional ride quality.

But somehow, the Proton “came out swinging” and delivered a superbly comfortable ride quality. Even when we traversed particularly poorly maintained roads, the Malaysian newcomer’s suspension was pliant – not once did it jolt and jar over road imperfections.

It’s great to see that Proton has prioritised on-road comfort and not tried to imbue the X70 with a modicum of sportiness (as if to suggest that the model has dynamic handling ability, which is certainly not expected of a family car); it does help that the 17-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in high-profile tyres. The cabin is well insulated from road noise too – we got the impression that the Proton would provide particularly relaxed transport on long(er) trips.

The excellent ride quality does come at the cost of some on-road poise and sharpness when cornering. The X7’s steering is set up for comfort and neither accurate nor very direct, but we’re not going to complain about that – you rarely get ride quality and crisp handling in abundance. There is a sporty steering mode, which adds some artificial heft to the ‘wheel.

Features, tech and safety features

The infotainment system is not compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The 1.5 Standard is the entry-level X70 derivative, but it still comes (fairly) well-equipped. Standard features include, but are not limited to, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise- and audio control buttons, fabric seats, LED foglamps, auto lights, Eco mode, keyless access with push-button start, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 6-speaker audio, USB connectivity, rear parking sensors, as well as a reverse-view camera.

There are a few drawbacks. While the Proton is equipped with a digital instrument panel, its presentation and display resolution feel outdated compared with those of its rivals. The central infotainment system is also not the most modern of units either… It offers Bluetooth connectivity but does not support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus you won’t be able to access convenient apps such as Maps, Waze and full streaming service functionality.

A USB charging port is located inside the centre armrest.

As far as safety features are concerned, the 1.5 Standard comes with 6 airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control and, for those who venture up and down steep roads, hill-hold assist and hill-descent control. Other derivatives in the X70 range, however, feature semi-autonomous driving technology, such as emergency city braking.

Packaging and Practicality

Proton X70 cabin The cabin design looks dated, but it feels solidly made.

The Proton X70’s cabin is a roomy and pleasant space to occupy; the seats are comfortable and supportive. However, the interior does feel a little dated. Perhaps it was a sign that the test unit’s internal clock had not been set correctly – it indicated April 2016. If we reviewed the X70 in 2016, the cabin would be perfectly contemporary, but throughout the past few years, big strides have been made in terms of cabin quality and tech at this price point.

The cabin materials feel reasonably premium, but if you look closely, you’re likely to spot a few cheap-looking elements, such as the surrounds of the infotainment screen. The system’s menu is not presented particularly clearly – we struggled to see its buttons in bright sunlight.

Proton X70 seats Rear legroom is acceptable, but the load-bay capacity is on the smaller side.

What’s more, the dashboard’s functionality requires a careful combination of button presses to activate (before you can use the audio volume’s scrolling wheel to sift between options). It’s a strangely clunky setup, because most OEMs utilise indicator- and wiper stalk buttons, or even a dedicated button on the steering wheel, to provide users access to such functions.

Again, the X70’s cabin is acceptably roomy. The entry-level derivative provides rear occupants with good head- and legroom, a pair of USB ports (for charging devices, as well as dedicated ventilation outlets. The load-bay capacity is rated at 515 litres, which puts the Malaysian offering towards the back of the proverbial grid when it comes to practicality.

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Proton X70 Price and After-sales support

The Proton X70 1.5 Standard costs R529 900 and the price includes a 5-year/unlimited km warranty, 5-year/80 000 km service plan, as well as 5 years’ roadside assistance.

Proton X70 rear The great ride quality and punchy powertrain are let down by a dated and quirky cabin.

Verdict

The Proton X70 makes a good case for itself, particularly if you’re looking for a family car that delivers ride quality and occupant comfort in abundance. The model’s turbopetrol engine is not lethargic (as some entry-level medium SUVs’ motors are) – it’s responsive and punchy (if somewhat thirsty) and mated with a snappy transmission. While we’ve only sampled the bottom-of-the-range version, its standard spec list is quite long and besides, if you want additional features, other X70 derivatives feature more comfort, features and safety tech.

Should you buy one? Given how rapidly the segment has evolved in a short space of time, we can’t recommend a Proton X70 over the brand-new and excellent Kia Sportage or the highly lauded Haval h4, both of which offer more space and performance for a similar price.

Proton SA has confirmed that there’s a new model coming in early 2023, but did not divulge further details. It could potentially be a fresh iteration of the X70, or something entirely different…

Step Up and Into Your PROTON X50

October 17, 2022 By Rokkit

By: Proton South Africa

Car review: Proton X50 test drive.

“It was my goal to feel the successful, career driven, and motivated mid-30-year-old woman that I am and get myself into a vehicle that embodied that. I needed a vehicle that would cater to the needs of my own, my 3 kids and my husband. Enter the Proton X50 – one-half of Proton’s new flagship SUVs.

As a career woman, always on the road, I was looking for a vehicle that made me feel safe, offered me features that I could enjoy, that allowed me great fuel efficiency. I saw that PROTON SOUTH AFRICA had just launched the new PROTON X50 and I fell in love instantly.

On my Proton X50 test drive, I experienced everything promised. Beautiful dual-toned leather seats, a steering wheel that fitted perfectly in my hands, and a sunroof really set the tone for what my driving experience would be like.

I immediately noticed the power in the drive. It was smooth but it definitely had a kick to it. I went from Normal mode, Eco mode, and to Sport mode to really get a good feel of them all. The difference between all the modes is really remarkable but, in all modes, the drive remained excellent.

I moved the steering wheel from normal to sports, and that was comfortable in both drives. I enjoy how easy and convenient every change of mode is in the PROTON X50.

As we all know, the roads are not the smoothest with potholes, bumps and bends, but what I have found and what I have heard many people say who have driven the flagship SUVs, PROTON X50 or PROTON X70, is that the suspension is absolutely incredible handling the road with such remarkable control. Both cars have Electronic Stability Control (ESC) which stabilizes the car in bad weather and on bad roads, which means that you are not oversteering.

I realized how good a driver I am (without tooting my own horn) when near the end of my test drive, I heard a beeping sound. I asked what that was about and it was the lane departure warning as I had gone into an empty lane without indicating. For fun, I did it again. Not only does the PROTON X50 have lane departure assist but it also has ‘Lane Keep Assist’ kind of, subtly, pulls you back into what you are in.

The best was saved for last. I got to experience Auto Park Assist. I remember being a child and saying to my brother, “imagine a car that could park itself”. Well, now I am driving one! With a touch of a button, my PROTON parked itself! What an exciting feature!

How could I forget, since getting my very own Proton car – the PROTON X50, my boys love the “Hi Proton” feature? A voice-activated system does a lot for you, like opening the sunroof, opening the windows, turning on the music, and other fun features.

I love my PROTON X50, I love the space, the features and the performance.” Get in touch with Proton for your next Proton X50 test drive.

Proton X50 vs Haval Jolion vs Chery Tiggo 7 Pro: Which one has the lowest running costs?

August 29, 2022 By Rokkit

By: Bisiness Live (22/09/2022) Proton X50 vs Haval Jolion vs Chery Tiggo 7 Pro: Which one has the lowest running costs?

Proton has returned to the local market, bringing in two new SUVs, the X50 and X70, but how does the X50 compare with two key rivals from up-and-coming brands Haval and Chery?

7

Image 1 of 44

	Proton X50 1.5T Standard	Haval Jolion 1.5T Super Luxury	Chery Tiggo 7 Pro 1.5T Executive
Engine size	3-cyl, 1.5-litre petrol	4-cyl, 1.5-litre turbo petrol	4-cyl, 1.5-litre turbo petrol
Power/Torque	110 kW/226 Nm	105 kW/210 Nm	108 kW/210 Nm
Gearbox	7-speed dual-clutch automatic	7-speed dual-clutch automatic	7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Seats	5	5	5
Airbags	4	6	6
Kerb weight	1 325kg	1 370kg	1 421kg
Boot capacity	330-litres	337-litres	475-litres
Fuel capacity	54-litres	60-litres	51-litres
Claimed consumption	6.4 L/100 km	7.5 L/100 km	6.8 L/100 km
Service plan	5-yr/100 000km	5-yr /60 000km	5-yr/60 000km
Price	R449 900	R437 900	R453 900

By: The Citizen (15/08/2022) Proton X50 and X70 features list revealed

Both models are now available for test drives before the commencing of sales next month.

Ahead of sales commencing in September, Proton has divulged full specification details of the X50 and X70 following the confirmation of pricing earlier this month.

X50

Based on parent company Geely’s BMA platform, the X50, which debuted in Malaysia two years ago as a rebadged version of the Geely Binyue that went on sale in China two years before, serves as Proton’s entry level model until the reported arrival later this year of the recently updated Saga sedan.

Measuring 4 330mm in overall length with its wheelbase stretching 2 600 mm, the X50 has a width of 1 800 mm, height of 1 609 mm and claimed boot capacity of 330-litres with all five seats up.

ALSO READ: This is how much: Proton X50 and X70 officially priced

As is known by now, motivation comes from the same 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine used in the Volvo XC40, but in two states of tune; 110kW/226Nm and 130kW/255Nm in models wearing the T-GDI badge.

The sole transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch with drive going to the front wheels only. Still unknown are performance and fuel consumption figures, though standard on all derivatives is a drive mode selector with three settings; Eco, Normal and Sport.

Comprising four models and trim levels, items on the entry-level X50 Standard consists of 17-inch alloy wheels, black fabric seats, projector-type LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, manual air-conditioning with rear vents, plus:

four-speaker sound system;
cruise control;
eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system;
remote engine start;
all around electric windows;
push-button start;
reverse camera;
rear parking sensors;
ABS with EBD, BAS and ESC;
Hill Descent Control;
Hill Hold Assist;
Traction Control;

Next up, the Luxury receives auto on/off LED headlights, LED fog lamps and a leather wrapped steering wheel, as well as black leatherette seats, six airbags and front parking sensors.

Building on the Luxury is the Executive, which swaps the 17-inch wheels for 18-inch alloys and the eight-inch display for a 10.25-inch setup.

As well as a digital instrument cluster, roof rails and an electric driver’s seat, the Executive sports automatic air-conditioning, a six-speaker sound system, tyre pressure monitor and a surround-view camera system.

Completing the Proton X50 range is the Premium, which apart from being the sole model powered by the T-GDI engine, comes furnished with:

rain sense wipers;
black-and-red leatherette interior;
auto-dimming rear-view mirror;
Auto High Beam Assist;
Autonomous Emergency Braking;
Adaptive Cruise Control;
Park Assist;
Lane Keep Assist;
Blind Spot Monitoring;
Forward Collision Warning;
Lane Departure Warning;

In total, six colours are available; Snow White, Jet Grey, Armour Silver, Citric Orange, Ocean Blue and Passion Red. Details surround the respective warranty and/or service plan will be announced next month.

X70

Another example of Geely ownership is the X70, which rides on the Chinese brand’s NL platform and debuted four years ago in Malaysia as one of the first Proton badged Geely models, in this case, the Boyue that bowed in China in 2016.

Facelifted in Malaysia this year, which saw the 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine making way for the T-GDI used in the X50, the Proton X70 measures 4 519 mm in overall length with its wheelbase stretching 2 670 mm, height 1 694 mm and width 1 831 mm.

Aside from the mentioned powerunit, the X70 also only has a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, but the option of all-wheel-drive on the mid-range Executive with the rest being front-wheel-drive only.

As on the X50, all X70’s feature a drive mode selector with three settings; Eco, Normal and Sport

Comprising four models and three trim levels, items on the base Standard comprises 17-inch alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, LED fog lights, a black fabric interior, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, plus the following:

cruise control
push-button start
dual-zone climate control with rear vents
all around electric windows
six-speaker sound system
reverse camera
rear parking sensors
six airbags
ABS with EBD and BAS
Electronic Stability Control
Hill Descent Control
Traction Control
Hill Hold Assist

Up next, the Executive receives LED headlights and daytime running diodes, as well as rain sense wipers, an electric tailgate, black faux leather seats and:

electric driver’s seat
eight-speaker sound system
front parking sensors
surround-view camera

At the top of the range is the now renamed Premium X, which gets brown Nappa leather seats, a nine-speaker sound system, electric tailgate as well as:

ventilated front seats with electric lumbar support for the driver
19-inch alloy wheels
tyre pressure monitor
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Lane Keep Assist
Adaptive Cruise Control
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Departure Warning
Auto High Beam Assist

On the colour front, the Proton X70 comes in a choice of six shades; Snow White, Space Grey, Armour Silver, Jet Grey, Ruby Red and Cinnamon Brown.

As with the X50, details surrounding the X70’s warranty and service plan will only be announced either before or at the national launch in September.

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