2020 Proton X50 set for launch on October, 27

KUALA LUMPUR: After months of speculations and teasing, Proton has finally confirmed the official launch date of its long-awaited SUV, the X50. Through a post on its official Facebook account, the national automaker announced that the SUV will launch in Malaysia on October, 27 at 10.50 am. 

The launch event will happen virtually, which means it will be open to the public. This is somewhat different from the previous X50 events, which were restricted to media only. Due to the ongoing CMCO and COVID-19 situation, Proton has decided to go for a virtual launch; recently 50 staff members at its Shah Alam office have been tested positive for COVID-19.

Since the initial preview in Tanjung Malim, Perak, the much-anticipated Proton X50 has garnered an overwhelming response from customers.  According to the automaker, the booking figures have already exceeded expectations; the SUV has received over 20,000 bookings in its first two weeks of the booking period. This really sounds like a lot, especially for a model that has no price tag as of yet. 

Well, the automaker is most likely to reveal the Proton X50 price during the launch event.

"This is the first B-segment car for Proton and, with the right price point, we are confident of gaining market share," Proton Edar chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah said during the media preview.

The X50 will be available in 4 variants and 2 engine options. The range-topping Flagship version gets a more potent  1.5-litre TGDi three-pot turbocharged direct fuel injection unit that churns out  177 PS of maximum power and 255 Nm of peak torque. Proton claims that it can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 7.9 seconds and delivers fuel consumption of 6.4 litres per 100 km.

On contrary, the lower-spec variants are hauled by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged port injection engine generating 150 PS and 226 Nm. All four variants are paired with a 7-speed DCT borrowed from the Proton X70.

Also read: Proton X50 vs Proton X70: Similarities and differences explained

As for safety, the upcoming SUV is loaded with tons of features including an Advanced Driver Assistance System. It has scored a shining 5-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP crash test as well. 

Excited about it? Just mark your calendar and head over to the brand's Facebook page on the day itself.

Also read: Buy or Hold: Wait for Proton X50 or buy Mazda CX-3?