We believe you must have read the heading that questions the Proton Saga facelift arrival. The answer is both yes and no. How? You ask. Well, it is a 'No' for the Malaysian market, as we had already received our share of the treat in 2019 - a brand new Saga with revised looks, powertrain, and features. Coming to the 'Yes' part, Proton will soon introduce the same Saga facelift (with some alterations) in other South Asian countries. Here the concerned country is Pakistan.

As per details floating around in the Pakistan media, a while back, Proton and Al-Haj Group came together and acquired Greenfield status from the Pakistan Ministry of Industries and Production, thus allowing them to manufacture Proton cars in Pakistan. In March, a groundbreaking ceremony was held, marking the automaker's operations in the country. It was followed by signing a licensing & technical assistance agreement deal between Proton and Al-Haj to build a Karachi factory to assemble Proton cars locally. The initial investment of the Karachi-based Proton plant is estimated at US$30 million (approx. 124 million). The operations are expected to commence by the end of 2020 with the initial CBU imported from Malaysia.

Following Saga's arrival in Pakistan, Proton's other successful soldier will enter the market, the X70 SUV. But that's a topic for another day.

Also Read: Saga & X70 help Proton sell over 11,000 units in December 2019

What we know about the Pak-spec Proton Saga?

The Proton Saga, as we know it today, is one of the key models in the automaker's lineup. It contributes to around 70% of the overall sales in its home country and has a long history of 30-years. We currently have the sedan's third-gen model, and the same will make it to the Pakistan market.

Variants

The Pak-spec Saga is said to be offered in three trim options -

• Standard MT
• Standard AT
• Premium AT

Footprint

From its size, the Saga can be called a B-segment sedan, though it is relatively smaller than other vehicles in this category. For reference, it is a bit smaller than the Pak-spec Toyota Yaris and Honda City.

Proton Saga dimensions read 4331 mm X 4390 mm x 4425 mm (LXWXH).

Powerplant

In Malaysia, the Saga comes with a 1332cc engine, but the Pak model will feature a downsized mill, maybe a 1299cc unit. The reason behind downsizing the Saga powerplant is quite practical and based on the market dynamics. The tax structure in Pakistan for cars above and under 1300cc is different, and that's why Proton has decided to customise its sedan. Thus, procuring the benefit of pricing the Saga competitively, enabling it to compete with the likes of new Toyota Yaris and Honda City.

With the 1299cc power plant, Saga in Pakistan will make around 89 hp of power. The said mill can be coupled to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. For additional info, the automatic gearbox is sourced from Hyundai and is also found in the Kia Picanto.

The Proton Saga mileage is rated between 14 to 16 kmpl.

Drivetrain, braking & suspension

The Saga will feature a hydraulic power steering, which is a standard fitment. Also, the steering
wheel is tilt-adjustable for greater driving comfort. The suspension is guarded by McPherson strut and Torsion beam at the front and rear. The braking is taken care of by disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear. The sedan will also benefit from the Eco-Drive assist indicator.

Features

Here are Saga's key features on the inside and outside -

• Infinite Weave grille wrapped in chrome
• LED DRLs (Premium only)
• 15-inch two-tone alloy wheels (Premium only)
• Remote operated trunk
• 7-inch touch screen floating head unit with mirroring and smartphone connectivity (Premium only)
• Steering controls
• Bluetooth connectivity
• LED interior dome lights
• Manual heating/cooling & ventilation system

Safety and Security

We'll like to inform you that the Saga earned a 4-star rating in ASEAN NCAP crash testing. Its safety kit includes -

• Dual front airbags
• ABS with EBD & BA
• Hill-Hold Assist ( Premium only)
• Seat belts for all
• ISOFIX points at the rear seat
• Rear parking sensors
• Immobilizer
• Anti-theft alarm
• Stability Control & Traction Control (Premium only)

 

Overall, the Proton Saga is a reliable car that has won millions of hearts in Malaysia. And we hope it does the same in Pakistan and other countries where it is launched.

Also Read: Proton market share hits 77-month high since August 2013