Proton e.MAS 5: Variants explained: Prime vs Premium – Which one should you choose?

The launch of the Proton e.MAS 5 is nothing short of a game-changing moment for the Malaysian electric vehicle market. This is Proton’s second electric vehicle, featuring a jelly-bean-like design, an upscale cabin loaded with features, and a jaw-dropping price tag that undercuts not only pure EVs but also many petrol-powered hatchbacks. 

Pro-net offers this game-changing EV in two variants—Prime and Premium —which look almost identical on the inside and out. However, what sets them apart is a different set of features and drivetrains that suit varying budgets and requirements. In today’s article, we are going to pit these variants against one another, helping prospective buyers make an informed decision.

Proton e.MAS 5 Prime vs Proton e.MAS 5 Premium: Spec-to-spec comparison

Price 

Variant	On-The-Road Price (without insurance)	On-The-Road Price (with Special Launch Rebate worth RM 3,000)
Proton e.MAS 5 Prime	RM 59,800	RM 56,800
Proton e.MAS 5 Premium	RM 72,800	RM 69,800

The two variants of the Proton e.MAS 5 EV have a price difference of RM 13,000. Well, justifying this gap are the exclusive bits that customers get with the top-spec Premium variant.

Dimensions

While the e.MAS 5 is positioned as an entry-level electric car in the B-segment category, the automaker claims that it offers the spaciousness of a C-segment car, ensuring that families, friends, and passengers enjoy a comfortable ride. It promises a true five-seater practicality with its generous cabin layout and a flat rear floor.

Both variants of the EV are almost identical, measuring 4,135 mm in length, 1,805 mm in width, 1,580 mm in height and spanning a wheelbase of 2,650 mm. The boot space is estimated at 375 litres, expandable up to 1,320 litres with the rear seats folded. A best-in-class 70-litre frunk is also available. 

However, the one dimension where they are different is the Kerb weight; the e.MAS 5 Prime measures 1,230 kg while the e.MAS 5 Premium tips the scales at 1,305 kg. This is due to the different battery packs and different wheels and tyres.

Variants	Proton e.MAS 5 Prime	Proton e.MAS 5 Premium
Length	4,135 mm	4,135 mm
Width	1,805 mm	1,805 mm
Height	1,580 mm	1,580 mm
Wheelbase	2,650 mm	2,650 mm
Kerb weight	1,230 kg	1,305 kg
Rear luggage capacity	375 litres (expandable up to 1,320 litres)	375 litres (expandable up to 1,320 litres)
Front luggage capacity	70 litres	70 litres

Drivetrain, range, and charging

The Proton e.MAS 5 sets itself apart from many other compact EVs with a rear-wheel drivetrain setup, which promises a balanced and engaging riding experience. In terms of output, the drivetrain delivers 79 PS and 130 Nm of torque in its standard configuration, while the higher-tuned variant produces 116 PS and 150 Nm.

Both are equipped with CATL-sourced LFP battery packs, but with different capacities. The entry-level model comes with a 30.12 kWh pack, whereas the Premium trim gets a bigger 40.16 kWh unit.

Check the detailed comparison below -

Variants	Proton e.MAS 5 Prime	Proton e.MAS 5 Premium
Electric motor	Rear wheel drive	Rear wheel drive
Power	79 PS	116 PS
Torque	130 Nm	150 Nm
0-50 kmph	4.4 seconds	3.9 seconds
Battery	30.12 kWh CATL LFP	40.16 kWh CATL LFP
Range (WLTP)	225 km	325 km
Charging	6.6 kW AC 53 kW DC	6.6 kW AC 71 kW DC
Charging time	4.3 hours (SOC 10% - 100% AC Charging) 21 minutes (SOC 30% - 80% DC Fast Charging)	5.9 hours (SOC 10% - 100% AC Charging) 21 minutes (SOC 30% - 80% DC Fast Charging)

Features 

Coming to the feature kit, here we can find some notable differences between the two. The Prime version is equipped with halogen headlights, LED tail lights, 15-inch wheels, a 14.6-inch infotainment unit, dual-language voice command, integrated live charge map, faux leather, six airbags, and all other essential bits, ensuring a comfortable ride.

Over and above these niceties, the Premium variant exclusively comes equipped with LED headlight, chrome exterior detailing, bigger wheels, a powered tailgate, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Here’s a detailed comparison of exterior, interior, and safety features -

Variants	Proton e.MAS 5 Prime	Proton e.MAS 5 Premium (over Prime)
Exterior	Manual halogen headlights LED tail lights Black plastic front bumper trim Body-coloured roof 15-inch steel wheels with 205/65 R15 tyres	LED projector headlights Chrome front bumper trim Gloss black roof 16-inch alloy wheels with 205/60 R16 tyres Powered tailgate
Interior	8.8-inch digital instrument display 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto “Hi Proton” voice control with Bahasa Malaysia option Proton eMas app connectivity Navigation with integrated live charge map Urethane multi-function steering wheel Faux leather upholstery Manual air conditioning with touchscreen controls  Rear AC vents Keyless entry and start Four speakers Electronic parking brake with auto brake hold Two front USB ports (USB-C and USB-A) 3.3 kW vehicle-to-load functionality	Faux leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel 6 speakers One rear USB port (USB-A)
Safety	Six airbags (front, side, curtain) Cruise Control  Anti-Lock Braking System  Electronic Brakeforce Distribution  Brake Assist G-Traction control system Hill start assist Hill descent control Tyre pressure monitoring system Reverse camera Blind spot monitoring Lane change warning Rear cross traffic alert Rear collision warning Door opening warning Rear parking sensors	Adaptive cruise control with stop and go Autonomous emergency braking Emergency brake assist Forward collision warning Lane departure warning Traffic sign recognition Front vehicle departure alert 360-degree camera system with 3D view

Colour options 

The entry-level model is offered in three shades - Moonstone White, Graphite Silver, and Slate Grey, combined with Flint grey interior. The Premium variant, on the other hand, exclusively comes with Marble Cream and Quartz Rose hues mated to Alabaster White interior, giving it an opulent vibe. 

Variants	Proton e.MAS 5 Prime	Proton e.MAS 5 Premium
Exterior	Moonstone White Graphite Silver Slate Grey	Marble Cream Quartz Rose Moonstone White Graphite Silver Slate Grey
Interior	Flint grey	Alabaster White (with Marble Cream and Quartz Rose exterior) Flint grey (with Moonstone White, Graphite Silver, and Slate Grey)

Which Proton e.MAS 5 variant should you choose?

Well, the answer depends on your priorities and budget. If you are budget-conscious and want to enter the EV world without breaking the bank, or if your daily driving needs are modest, go for the e.MAS 5 Prime. However, if you are looking for a well-equipped electric car with added range, comfort and safety tech, then you should definitely go for the Premium version. 

Also read: All-New Proton Saga previewed —1.5-litre/CVT, 16-inch dual screen, ADAS