Proton Suprima S: Features explained

The Proton Suprima S is the alter ego of the Preve hatchback. Both the cars have been in development as early as 2009. However, we do know that the Preve was introduced first to check the public reaction and then the Suprima S debuted. It has been almost six years since its launch and a refreshed Proton Suprima S is already out in the market.

There is only a lone trim available and the Suprima S is set to take on the likes of Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and the Honda Civic. The car looks modern and it has to because it is designed by the renowned Italian design house - Giugiaro Italdesign. The Suprima S is also the most exported Proton as the company intends to sell just under 1,000 units here. So, what makes the Suprima S so special? Let’s find out.

External features

For starters, there are projector headlights and separate pods for the high as well as low beams. Just underneath are the LED daytime running lamps. The round fog lights have cornering function too. Move to the side and you will notice the blacked out 17-inch alloy wheels. The kink in the design is visible from the side. On to the rear, one will notice the striking LED lights, a blacked out diffuser, and those dual exhaust pipes.

Overall, the new Proton Suprima S looks like it is an Italian vehicle. We believe that was the brief given to Italdesign. The dimensions aren’t too large either. The length, width and height are 4,436 x 1,786 x 1,524 mm respectively. Colour options for the Proton Suprima S include Atlantic Blue, Fire Red, Cotton White, Sterling Silver, and Midnight Black.

Internal features

This Proton has keyless entry. There is also push-button start. The upholstery is done in leather. Proton has added a 7.0-inch Android-based touchscreen infotainment system that also acts like a DVD set up. It also has USB, AUX and Bluetooth connectivity. There are six speakers to go with too. Proton also offers internally adjustable and foldable mirrors, GPS navigation, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio, Bluetooth, and cruise control button on it as well as height adjustable seat. Dual zone climate control with vents at the rear, remote boot release, auto wipers, auto cruise, and a boot space of 427-litre is given. The wheelbase of the Proton Suprima S is 2,650 mm. There is comfortable seating for five in there.

Engine and transmission

The 2018 Proton Suprima S specifications say that there is a lone petrol engine on offer. This turbocharged unit offers a swept volume of 1,600 cc and produces 141 PS of peak power at 5,000 rpm and torque of 205 Nm between 2,000 - 4,000 rpm. The gearbox is a Proton developed 7-speed automatic that also has paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. In terms of performance, the Proton Suprima S does 0-100 kmph in 9.9 seconds while the top speed is 190 kmph. Proton claims a mileage of 17 kmpl from the Suprima S.

Ride and handling features

The suspension of the Suprima S consists of MacPherson struts at the front and multilink with stabiliser bar at the rear. The steering is hydraulically powered and the turning radius is 5.5 metre. Both the front as well as rear wheels have disc brakes nestled in them and they measure 15-inches. Ground clearance of the Suprima S is 155 mm. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 1,350 kg.

Safety

Six airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, seat belt pre-tensioners, ISOFIX child seat mounts, Electronic Stability Contro, Traction Control, anti-trap driver power window, active headrest, hill hold assist, auto lights, front and rear parking sensors as well as a parking camera at the back are some of the features available.

Price and final words

The Proton Suprima S price in Malaysia starts from RM 75,608 for the solid colors while the metallic ones are priced from RM 76,032. The car is decently priced and as is a given with Proton Malaysia vehicles, gets three years standard warranty.