Is Proton X50 coming? What we know so far

In 2018, Dr. Li Chunroung, Proton’s Chief announced that the automaker would launch a new product every year until 2021. Well, this decision was taken amid Proton-Geely partnership with a vision to expand the former's reach not only locally but also globally. Under this alliance came the much-talked-about Proton X70, company’s first SUV that displayed a different face of the brand altogether, both looks and features wise. Fast forward to 2019, and we heard rumours around a new car, saw one Chinese four-wheeler doing test runs, and heard several trademarks being registered. It looks like another car is soon going to come and accompany the X70. Though nothing is definite yet, here’s all the information we have about the expected Proton car. Let’s have a look -

What would be the name of Proton’s new car?

So, recently Proton trademarked several names, included in the list were - X50, V50, V70, V500 V700, X500, and X700. However, the one that caught everyone’s attention and seemed to attain maximum limelight was the X50. Maybe because of its striking resemblance with the X70.

What segment will it hail from?

According to the rumours, the car is said to take a slot just below the Proton X70. So, guys get ready for a new compact SUV.

Proton's upcoming car is based on which foreign vehicle?

For those of you who aren’t aware, we’ll like to tell you that only last year Proton and Geely entered a new tech partnership deal. Following which, the Malaysian born automaker introduced the X70 SUV which is based on the Geely Boyue. As for Proton X50 (expected name), the car will mimic the Geely Binyue that was recently launched in China. Why do we say so? Well, the reason is that we have spotted the camouflaged Binyue doing test rounds in Malaysia. The spotted car was a left-hand driven unit and is most likely being used for development purposes by Proton. Also, the company is testing both the standard and sport trims of the Binyue, and this we know by the differences on the exterior.

Where will it be manufactured?

The Tanjung Malim facility that is currently being upgraded, it will take care of the X70 and all the future Proton production requirements.

What all information do we have on the spec front?

To be frank, nothing. We know nothing for sure about the car yet, as Proton is still at the early stages of the car-building process, i.e., research and development. However, as we know it would be based on the Geely Binyue, it will feature a few of its traits, though they might be modified to suit local tastes. So, let’s see what all is in stock for the upcoming sub-compact Proton SUV -

• Geely’s B-segment Modular Architecture (BMA)
• Two engine options, one 174 hp 1.5-litre that is co-developed by Volvo and is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch. Second is a 1.0-litre unit churning out 134 hp and it is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox

• The Binyue also features a Level 2 autonomous driving features that include parking assist and adaptive cruise control
• Also, included in the spec sheet is a 7-inch LCD instrument panel, GKUI system, 10.25-inch main display, autonomous emergency braking, among others

What’s the expected price tag for Proton upcoming car?

Though nothing is official yet, we expect it to cost somewhere close to the Perodua Aruz, that is, around RM 70,000 or more.

That’s all the information we have till now about the Proton's soon to arrive compact SUV. Stay tuned to know the latest update about the car. Until then, check out other cars in Proton Malaysia lineup.