Proton Exora

Overview

One of the best selling passenger cars from Proton, the Exora, has earned quite a reputation for itself as one of the most affordable multi-utility vehicles in the segment. The Exora, with its promising sense of simplicity and space, has given its competitors an edge in terms of ease of owning a car. Keeping the Exora fresh and ready for the modern day buyer, Proton recently gave the car a revamp. Like before, the Proton Exora is available in two different variants – Executive and Premium. Also, when compared to the previous-gen model, the new Exora is cheaper and stuffed with better equipment. The base trim now costs RM 59,800 (RM 2,547 less) and the range-topping Premium variant is available for RM 66,800 (RM 2,208 less). The car is up for grabs in five exterior color options - new Rosewood Maroon, Ruby Red, Snow White, Indiana Grey, and Cocoa Grey.

Interior & Features

The cabin is the part that has received major revamp, and it’ll surely satisfy the modern-day buyer. First up, talking about the driver’s area, the new Exora features a new meter combination that showcases bright new design with all the information clearly visible. The three-spoke steering wheel in the top model comes wrapped in leather and also features controls for audio and hands-free. The inner rear view mirror displays borderless design and shows what’s following behind clearly. Both the trims feature a new part-leather upholstery that undoubtedly is better than the previous fabric option.  

While the base trim features a standard audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports, the top trim lives up to its stature and houses a 7-inch touch screen unit. Borrowed from the Proton X70, this system enables functions like online navigation, voice command, online weather forecast, smartphone connectivity, 4G & Wi-Fi, online music streaming, and online navigation.

A testimony of its spaciousness is the fact that the MPV won the ‘Most People in MPV’ award from Malaysia Book of Records. While the Exora can seat seven passengers with ease, the car can be converted in a carrier thanks to its multiple seat configuration.

Exterior

On the outside, the 2019 Proton Exora carries the same old design, which we hoped like the Iriz and Persona received a major revamp. It might impress the onlooker by its sheer size; however, it misses out on the road presence of a modern day car. The long wheelbase of 2,730 mm gives it a sense of a big vehicle, which surely suggest a spacious cabin.

At the front, the Proton Exora features the same sleek grille with the company’s moniker at the centre. The sharp sweptback halogen headlamps look blingy, thanks to LED daytime running lamps. The vertical faux air intakes give the car a much-needed masculine appeal. The front fog lamps positioned on the lower bumper adds to the car’s visibility factor.

The side profile of the all-new Exora looks quite elongated, all thanks to the elongated wheelbase. The16-inch alloy wheels look great; also, the side skirting gives the overall design a subtle boost. The black roof top and shark fin antenna are the new addition to the revised model.

At the rear, the Proton Exora is a bit sober, with vertical tail lamps and sizeable rear windshield with broad black outline. The rear spoiler not only adds to the style factor but also give aerodynamic benefits to the MPV.

Ride & Handling

Riding on large16-inch alloy wheels, the Proton Exora gets MacPherson Strut with Stabiliser Bar at the front and Tension Bean Axle at the rear. The Exora also gets Ventilated Disc brakes at the front and Solid Disc at the rear.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

For the Exora, Proton has employed a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel mill. The engine, coupled to a CVT unit, is capable of putting up 140 PS of maximum power at 5,000 rpm and 205 Nm of peak torque output from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm.

Braking & Safety

Looking at Exora’s price chart, we’ll say that the MPV is rationally loaded with safety features. Part of its standard safety kit is -  Front SRS Airbags, Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution, Front Seatbelts with Pretensioners & Load Limiters, Rear Parking Sensors, and Immobiliser & Anti-Theft Alarm. The top model gets Electronic Stability Control and reverses camera as additional features.

Verdict

The all-new Exora is a significant improvement over the previous-gen model, especially in terms of cabin comfort and equipment profile. The exterior could have been changed or modified a bit, but overall it looks fine when compared to price range it is offered in. The safety profile is the most impressive part with the base trim enjoying most of the features. Overall it’s a good garb in the range.