Is there a new Proton Saga coming to showrooms?

Or is this just a quick facelift before the PHEV version?

There are strong rumours circulating on Malaysian social media stating that a brand new Proton Saga is coming to showrooms. Well, the fact is this is NOT a brand new Saga and instead it is just another facelift. Yes, it is just another nip and tuck for the Proton Saga which has been a popular selling compact sedan from the Malaysian national car company.

So, after some checks with local Proton dealers, it seems that this latest Proton Saga will come with some new infotainment features, a slight revision to the already ‘upright’ sedan shape that provides a lot of interior space and good luggage carrying capability.

The current Proton Saga (pictured here) was launched in August 2019 at a selling price of RM 39,800. Its closest rival, the Perodua Bezza which arrived 7 months later in March 2020 was priced from RM 34,580 and came with slightly better safety features and some added comfort accessories.

Proton management watched how the ride hailing and car sharing segment took on more units of the Perodua Bezza against the Proton Saga simply because it was slightly better equipped and had a tried and tested Toyota/Daihatsu powertrain.

So, after 2 years of allowing the Perodua Bezza to take a lead in the segment, the Saga is back, again, with added features and probably a lower selling price to move its market share upwards.

There will probably be no changes to the 2022 Proton Saga powertrain. The current 1332cc 16-valve engine has been a good workhorse and the 4-speed conventional automatic gearbox has been a reliable worker. With 94 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque, this compact sedan has enough elements to make it popular with the ride hailing and car sharing segments. Yes, single adults and retired car drivers are also going to be targeted as this is a growing segment.

Some of the features that might remain are as follows. The Geely Auto provided floating 7-inch touchscreen monitor found on the premium model before will probably be made available on all variants. Bluetooth connectivity, 16GB of internal storage and smartphone connectivity for Android phones will continue. The reverse camera, LED daytime lights and the Eco Drive Assist feature from the premium variant will be shared across all variants and with a slightly lower asking price.

Be patient and wait for the launch announcement teasers which will start next week.

Also read: Geely Xingyue L to be badged as a Proton X90?