Proton’s May 2026 sales revealed: Saga returns as Malaysia's best-selling vehicle, e.MAS lineup shines

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton continues to hold its strong position as one of Malaysia's fastest-growing automotive brands in 2026, with a steady performance in May. During the month, the national automaker sold a total of 16,995 cars, despite an estimated 15.4% m-o-m decline in Total Industry Volume.

Proton’s year-to-date sales are estimated at 84,294 units, which is 38% higher than the number of units sold in the same period last year. The market share for the first five months of the year is estimated at 26.7%. Notably, the overall industry volume is estimated to have declined by 1.4% over the same period, highlighting the brand’s growth in a challenging market. 

The credit for this strong momentum goes to the growing appeal of the automaker’s expanding portfolio of pure ICE models, EVs, and PHEVs. Looking at the electrified vehicles specifically, the automaker sold a total of 3,022 units last month, bringing the YTD total to 14,687 units.

“PROTON’s performance in 2026 shows Malaysians continue to respond positively to products that deliver strong value, advanced technology, and a rewarding ownership experience. What is especially encouraging is the breadth of our success. The Proton Saga remains Malaysia's favourite car, the Proton X50 continues to lead the SUV market, while our e.MAS range is establishing itself as the benchmark for electrified mobility in Malaysia.

"As we continue to invest in new products, our retail network and after-sales capabilities, our focus remains on delivering vehicles and services that exceed customer expectations while strengthening PROTON's position as a leading automotive brand in Malaysia,” said Dato. Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

Let’s now have a look at the individual performance of Proton cars - 

Proton Saga	As Proton’s best-selling model for a long time, the Saga reclaimed its position as Malaysia's best-selling vehicle in May 7,398 units sold in May 2026 YTD sales stand at 37,375 (up 41% YoY)
Proton S70	Maintaining strong demand in the C-segment sedan category with 2,350 units sold in May (third consecutive month in 2026 breaching the 2,000-unit barrier) YTD sales stand at 10,525 (up 32.5% YoY)
Proton X50	Leading the B-segment SUV category with 2,793 units sold in May YTD sales stand at 12,967 units (up 33.6% YoY)
Proton X90	Leading the D-segment SUV category with 402 units sold in May  YTD sales are up by 38.6% compared to the same period last year
Proton e.MAS 7	Reclaimed its position as Malaysia's best-selling electric vehicle with 958 units sold in May  Year-to-date volume reaches 2,394 units
Proton e.MAS 5	Recorded monthly sales of 883 units in May, ahead of the commencement of local assembly operations this month Remains Malaysia's best-selling EV on a year-to-date basis with 9,357 units delivered so far
Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV	Recorded its second consecutive best-ever monthly sales performance with 1,181 units sold in May.  Has established itself as Malaysia's best-selling PHEV in just 4 months Cumulative sales reach 2,936 units

Commenting on the performance, Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, said, "The strong response to the Proton e.MAS range reflects growing consumer confidence in electrified vehicles and their ability to deliver lower running costs, advanced technology, and an enhanced ownership experience. We are particularly encouraged by the market's reception towards both our EV and PHEV offerings, which demonstrates that Malaysian consumers are embracing multiple pathways towards sustainable mobility.

“As local assembly operations continue to ramp up for the Proton e.MAS 7 and commence for the Proton e.MAS 5, we are strengthening our ability to meet customer demand while supporting the development of Malaysia's EV ecosystem. We believe Proton e.MAS is well-positioned to maintain its leadership role as the market continues to evolve."

Also read: Proton e.MAS 7 EV ready for an upgrade, teaser out