Proton Exora: All you need to know

The Proton Exora is one of the two MPVs that the carmaker sells. The Proton Ertiga is the other one and is the smaller of the two here. In fact, the Proton Exora MPV is the third costliest model in the Malaysian-bred auto maker’s line up. It has been around since ages and quite a few nips and tucks have given it a fresh lease of life. However, the rumour mill is abuzz that the Proton Exora may soon get a new generation model. While we will talk about the all-new model in another article, here is all you need to know about Proton’s proper seven-seater vehicle.

Looks

If you’ve seen the Toyota Kijang from the Indonesian market, then the Proton Exora looks very familiar. It is styled on those lines, however, unlike its Malaysian peer, the Exora does look a bit thinner. The headlights are teardrop shaped and have a blue tinge to them. The fog lights are placed closer to the air dam and not on the extremities. There is also an LED DRL closer to the fog lights. The side mirrors get a turn indicator on them. Side protector moulding, as well as side skirts, are available. The 16-inch alloys can also be optioned with a dual tone finish. At the back, halogen lights have been given and on the top spec trim, an integrated spoiler has been added.

In terms of dimensions, the Proton Exora specifications state it measures 4,610 x 1,809 x 1,691 mm in length, width, and height, respectively. There are two variants available - Executive CVT and Executive Plus CVT. Color options of the Proton Exora include Elegant Brown, Cotton White, Cocoa Grey, Ruby Red, and Indiana Grey.

Interior

In the cabin of the Proton Exora, the designers have used fabric as upholstery for the Executive and leather for the Plus variants. Depending on the same, the steering wheel is specced as well. The feature list includes electrically folding door mirrors, automatic climate control, second and third row AC vents, driver seat height adjuster, vanity mirror, front seat back pocket, 10 bottle and cup holders as well as seat headrests. Other infotainment options include a 9-inch LCD monitor with DVD player, audio switches behind the steering wheel, USB at floor console, rear power sockets, auto cruise control, and a reverse camera.

The wheelbase of the 2018 Proton Exora is 2,730 mm. The vehicle is a seven-seater. Its boot space is 300-litre, expandable by pushing the third row.

Engine and transmission

Proton uses a single engine with the Exora. It is a 1.6-litre turbo petrol motor that produces 138 PS of power at 5,000 rpm while the torque generated is 205 Nm between 2,000 - 4,000 rpm. The transmission is a CVT and also has paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.

Chassis

The new Proton Exora is built on a borrowed platform from Suzuki. The suspension components consist of the McPherson struts with coil springs at the front and a torsion beam with coil spring at the back. Proton has used a rack and pinion hydraulic steering wheel in the Exora. It is adjustable only for tilt and the turning radius is 5.4 metre. Proton has given ventilated discs in the front and a solid disc at the back.

Accessories available

One gets a tinted film glass, plate holder as well as safety kit with the Executive Plus. The Executive makes do without the tinted glass.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, front seatbelt pre-tensioner and load limiter, electronic stability control, immobiliser as well as reverse sensors are provided with the Proton Exora.

Price

The Proton Exora price in Malaysia is RM 64,833 for the Executive and RM 72,217 for the Executive Plus variants. It is one of the most affordable seven-seater MPV that one can buy at this price. There is the also the lower specced Proton Ertiga on offer but it just doesn’t have the charm of the bigger Exora. If you can wait for the all-new Geely sourced, X70 it will show up next year. If not, there is no better bet than the current Exora.