All-new 2025 Proton X50 first look – Sharper design, more power, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and now with BM voice commands

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton has pulled the wraps off the all-new 2025 Proton X50, following a closed-door media preview, giving journalists an early look at what will be one of the brand’s most significant launches of the year.

We're not allowed to publish any real-life photos or explain variant-specific features taken at the preview event till tomorrow —but Proton has instead provided a curated set of official renderings for use in coverage today.

This marks the first full model update for the X50 since its 2020 debut. In that time, over 134,000 units have been sold, making it Malaysia’s top-selling B-segment SUV for five consecutive years.

Proton says the new model has been “redesigned from the ground up,” aiming to refresh the model to keep it relevant for now and the near future.

Also Read: Proton records 5% m-o-m growth in May 2025, e.MAS 7 hits new milestone

What’s new on the outside?

Visually, the all-new X50 adopts a sharper and more modern design language. The front end is completely revised with a new grille and bumper layout.

The daytime running lights have been restyled, and the headlamps are now slimmer and sleeker. The rear gets a new tailgate garnish, full led rear tail light bar, redesigned rear bumper and a full blown larger spoiler for the Flagship variant.

A dual-tone paint scheme is now also offered across the range, paired with a new set of 18-inch textured alloy wheels that bring a more premium look.

One new colour has been introduced: Teal Bayou Green, joining the existing palette of Snow White, Passion Red, Jet Grey, and Armour Silver.

Interior: Upmarket touches and Android Auto/Apple Car Play

Inside, the upgrades are more obvious. Proton has ditched the old layout in favour of a new floating floor console, complemented by luxury-style column shifters.

Soft-touch materials are used more generously, and the dashboard now features rhythmic 72-colour ambient lighting, which responds to music and driving inputs.

At the centre of it all is a 14.6-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen, one of the largest in its segment. It now supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, something missing from the outgoing model and one of the biggest pain points among owners.

A standout addition for the local market is voice recognition in Bahasa Melayu — a first for any Proton. You can now give spoken commands like turning on the air-conditioning or opening windows in the national language. It also supports English.

Proton Link 2.0: Smarter connected features

The X50 now comes equipped with Proton Link 2.0, an upgraded connected car suite that includes remote engine start and climate control, vehicle status monitoring, and service appointment booking. It’s tied into the larger infotainment experience and can be controlled via a dedicated mobile app.

Proton also hinted at future over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities, but this hasn’t been fully confirmed yet.

ADAS and Safety: Upgraded and expanded

Safety has also been given a serious boost. The updated Level 2 ADAS suite now includes a Rear Side Radar System (RSRS) for improved blind spot detection. The Auto Park Assist (APA) has been enhanced for greater accuracy and ease of use.

Also new is a 360-degree HD camera system with a 180-degree undercarriage transparent view — a useful addition for navigating tight spots or checking underneath the car. This feature stitches together feeds from multiple cameras to create a virtual see-through floor, previously seen only on pricier models from other brands.

The car retains its 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, with six airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control as standard.

Under the Bonnet: More power, smoother drive

The new X50 is powered by a new 4-cylinder 1.5-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine (i-GT 1.5 TD) making 133 kW (181 PS) and 290 Nm of torque. It’s mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (wet-type) — carried over, but with improved calibration.

Proton claims a 0-100 km/h time of 7.6 seconds, 0.3s quicker than before. There’s also a 4.7% improvement in fuel efficiency, although no official consumption figures were shared at the preview.

No official mention was made of a non-direct injection variant (as seen in the current Standard and Executive trims), so it appears all variants may now get the higher-tuned TD engine. 

Variant breakdown

Proton confirmed that three variants will be available at launch:

• Executive

• Premium

• Flagship

Each is expected to offer a graduated feature set, but at the preview, only the top-spec Flagship was shown. Final spec sheets for each trim will be released during the official launch, alongside pricing.

Early Public Engagements Coming

While a firm launch date wasn’t shared, Proton did confirm that a series of activation events will take place in the weeks leading up to the launch. These roadshows will allow the public to get up close with the vehicle and place early bookings.

Proton’s Take

“As the leading SUV model in the PROTON range, expectations are high for the All-New PROTON X50 to carry the model’s legacy of excellence. By offering customers a comprehensive technology and performance upgrade together with luxurious features and combining it with exciting and sporty new exterior styling, we think Proton’s latest offering will resonate with customers from all walks of life and reset the benchmark in the B-segment SUV class,” said Zhang Qiang, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar.

“With its innovation-led evolution, the All-New PROTON X50 will reinforce the brand’s strong position while drawing in customers ranging from small families and young professionals to first-time buyers and tech-savvy urbanites looking for a connected and confident driving experience,” he added.

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