2018 Proton X70 - What to expect from Proton’s first SUV?

On the 7th of September 2018, Proton - the born in Malaysia auto brand revealed its first ever SUV. Though the viewing was held behind closed doors at the company's headquarter in Shah Alam, crucial information about the upcoming Proton SUV floated outside quickly. Now, initially, with Geely acquiring 49.99 percent stake in Proton in June, it was clear that the Malaysian based auto company looks forward to expand its reach globally. And as a part of the acquisition, Geely also transferred its SUV platform to Proton. The very same platform on which the Geely Boyue is developed. Thus making one thing clear, that the X70 SUV is built on a tried and tested core that proved to be successful in other parts of the world.

Also, with Proton bringing in an SUV to its lineup gives prospective buyers a new window to fetch their dream of owning a big car. We say so from the past trend of Proton cars carrying an affordable price tag. As for now, Proton is yet to release the X70 price list; however, the booking for it commenced from 8 September at a small deposit of RM 1000.

While you along with other prospective buyers wait for the X70 launch, here’s what we know and expect from upcoming Proton SUV 

1.Variants on offer

The Proton X70 will be offered in a total of four variant choices - Standard 2WD, Executive 2WD, Executive AWD, and lastly the range-topping Premium 2WD. All the trims will feature a common under the hood specification, i.e. a 1.8-litre turbo mill. And like the Boyue, is expected to come paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. As for the fuel economy, it is expected to fall close to 13 kmpl or slightly less.

 

2. Exterior styling

The Proton X70 carries looks and stance of a modern-day SUV. The model that was previewed at the company’s headquarter and also the images circulating down the internet looks similar to the Geely Boyue. Well, that’s because minimal changes have been made, to ensure its speedy entry into production. However, according to Proton’s head of design, Mr Azlan Othman, substantial visual changes will be seen in the X70 CKD version.

As for the one that’ll enter soon in the Malaysian market, it carries an impressive exterior profile. Impressive enough to turn heads. At the front are present LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs that very well merge with the wide rock-solid grille. At the bottom, complimenting the faux air-vent design are the stylish fog lamp case that house LED units. The bonnet is well decorated by contour line that also makes frequent appearances at the side and rear. Moving on, the SUV runs on 18-inch alloys wrapped with Hankook Dynapro hp2 tyres. In partnership with the sharp door to door crease are the chrome outlines doing duty on the windows. The rear looks equally attractive with the dark-tinted tail light, roof spoiler, and chrome trim rectangular exhaust.

3. Inside aura

On the inside too the X70 shares its look and feel with the Chinese cousin, the Boyue. And mind you, unlike other options in the Proton lineup, this one is far more premium. Well, we aren’t just saying it out of thin air, the reason is its premium offerings list that includes - Nappa leather covered seats, steering wheel, and door cards. Followed by 8-inch touchscreen display with 4G connectivity, automatic dual-zone climate control, fully-digital instrument panel, voice recognition support and more.

Further, enhancing the inside beauty are present silver grab handles, wool inlays and brushed silver inclusions on the dash. Also, the infinite wave design on the doos and speakers grille seeks attention

4. A long list of feature

This is something that top officials from Proton promised and seems like they are rightly delivering it. The X70 SUV is expected to be full of utility as well as luxury features. In the list are included - USB charging ports, rear air-con vents, full-size panoramic glass roof, Camry like shoulder controls to boot, rear subwoofers, adaptive cruise control, Smartphone Remote Control, and Smart Air Purifier.

Apart from this, the Proton SUV will portray a full-fledged safety kit with features like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, tyre pressure monitoring system, and six airbags.

Available in five color options - Flame Red, Jet Grey, Snow White, Cinnamon Brown, and Armour Silver. The Proton first SUV will surely be a game changer; however, a lot depends on its still to reveal price tag. Stay tuned to get first-hand information on the X70 SUV.