Proton Iriz

Overview

Proton Iriz can be considered a gamechanging hatchback of number one Malaysian automaker Proton and was launched in the year 2014. In Malaysia, this decently priced hatchback is available in 3 trims with Standard, Executive and Premium labels. These trims are different from each other in terms of features and engine capacity. Iriz was launched at a global level with its 1.3-litre VVT and 1.6-litre VVT engines (with further subdivisions in terms of transmission) which were designed in accordance to the need of global market. This 5-door and 5-seater hatchback has a sporty and young look which is capable of attracting the young people. The most amazing factor however which distinguishes this little hatchback from international manufacturers is the pricing associated with it and the extra-ordinary features it embeds for the little moolah spent.

Interior & Features

The leather/fabric seats of this Proton product are designed to deliver comfort to the passengers. A graceful interior with all the facilities like GPS navigation, 2 or 4 speakers (depending on the variant), 6.2-inch LCD display (only on the top-end variants) with USB and AUX connectivity, Bluetooth, 2 DIN radio, CD player, MP3 and Wi-Fi enabled are employed in Iriz for a fun-filled drive. The roomy interior of this 5-seater offers a decent boot space of 215-litres to accommodate the luggage. Small storages like cup holders and glove box front seat back pockets make it easy for the travelers to keep petty things in the cabin. Keyless entry and push start button make this hatchback more comfortable for the passengers. Some features may differ from trim to trim.

Exterior

Talking about the exterior of Proton Iriz, it has a Reinforced Safety Structure (RESS) which is five times stronger than the normal galvanized steel at critical areas for the safety of its occupants. This Proton hatchback stands at 3920 mm x 1722 mm x 1554 mm (L x W x H), 2555 mm of wheelbase and 155 mm of ground clearance. Its alloy wheels measures at 14-inch and 175/65 R14 tires for 1.3-litre engine variants. The 1.6-litre engine variants have 15-inch alloy wheels with 195/55 R15 tires to complete the sporty exterior of Iriz. The front of this hatch showoffs black bold grille along with chrome plated Proton insignia in the middle of upper front grille. The crisp body-lines and bold fenders add more to its sporty and young look. You couldn't really expect more risking little from your pocket.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

Iriz variants house 2 gasoline engines with different capacities to complement this hatchback. The 1.3-litre engine comes with Standard and Executive trims which churns a maximum power of 95 PS at 5750 rpm and a maximum torque of 120 Nm at 4000 rpm. Coming on to its bigger sibling, the 1.6-litre VVT engine available for Executive and Premium trims, this generates a peak power of 108 PS at 5750 and a peak torque measuring at 150 Nm at 4000 rpm. The 1.3-litre engine with 5 MT accelerates 0-100 kmph from a halt in 12.2 seconds with a top speed of 165 km/hr and this same engine with CVT takes 13.1 seconds to accelerates with a top speed of 160 km/hr. The 1.6-litre engine takes 11.1 seconds to accelerate with a peak speed of 175km/hr in 5MT and 170km/hr in CVT. The 1.6-litre engine with MT sips 6.6 L/100 km fuel and the same engine with CVT consumes a little more of 7.4 L/100 kms on an average proving the engine to have a decent mileage.

Braking & Safety

Proton Iriz comes loaded with features like 6 airbags in total for the safety of all the occupants. Also, all the 5 seats have seat belts with warning indicator for front row passengers. Immobilizer provided in this Proton hatchback protects it from any theft. Brake Assist, Anti-Lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control keep the car stable after applying emergency brakes on elevated speeds. For effective braking, ventilated discs at front and LT drums at rear are employed in Iriz.

Verdict

No lies, Proton Iriz is truly a revolutionary product, packing comfort features of a mid-range sedan inside its little hatchback body for amazingly low price. But in totality, Proton Iriz comes across as all style little substance, because in terms of performance the hatchback is a bit disappointing, but understandably so.