Proton X70: Starting price at RM 99,900, is it the first choice for family cars?

The Proton X70, as a best-seller from Proton Motors, has been highly popular since its launch. The 2022 facelifted X70 brings several improvements, the most significant change being the inclusion of the same 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine as the X50. This C-Segment SUV not only upgrades its power system but also optimizes its exterior, interior, and safety configuration.

Exterior design: Detail optimization, more fashionable

The 2022 facelifted Proton X70 has made some subtle but significant changes to its exterior. The new X70 is equipped with a new alloy wheel design. The 18-inch and 19-inch wheels are more dynamic, with the 19-inch wheels making their debut on the X70 SE model. The front of the car adopts a black high-gloss front grille design, and the trim around the fog lights, the trim connecting the tail lights, and the rear diffuser section are all treated with gloss highlights, making the whole car more modern.

These changes not only improve the overall visual effect of the vehicle but also enhance its competitiveness in the market, enabling the X70 to stand out in the fiercely competitive C-segment SUV market.

Interior design: Luxurious comfort, intelligent technology

Upon entering the car, the interior of the Proton X70 remains largely unchanged, but it has added a black roof lining, enhancing the overall texture of the interior. The control part still carries the infotainment system driven by the GKUI system, supporting the "Hi Proton" voice command system. High-end models even provide Nappa leather seats and a 9-speaker Kenwood sound system, bringing the ultimate comfortable experience to the occupants.

Power System: Brand new 1.5L turbocharged engine

The biggest highlight of the 2022 Proton X70 upgrade is the upgrade of its power system. The new model is equipped with the same 1.5L three-cylinder turbocharged engine as the X50, with a maximum power of 177 horsepower and a maximum torque of 255 Nm. Although slightly lower than the 1.8L four-cylinder engine, if you don't like the 1.5L turbocharged engine, don't worry, because Proton is still offering the larger 1.8L 4-cylinder engine limited to the top of the line Premium 2WD model which is priced at RM 128,800.

The weight of the 1.5L turbocharged engine is reduced by 43 kg, which increases the fuel economy of the vehicle by 7%.

This 1.5L engine not only has outstanding power output, but also uses a series of advanced technologies, such as low-inertia turbocharger to reduce turbo lag, a dual-mass flywheel with a damper to suppress engine vibration. The application of these technologies has significantly improved the fuel economy and driving smoothness of the 1.5L engine.

The Proton X70 is equipped with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, whether it is front wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions, it can provide an excellent driving experience. The new X70 is more light and flexible when driving at low speeds, making it especially suitable for urban driving. At the same time, the stability and comfort of the vehicle during high-speed driving are also guaranteed.

Compared with some competitors, such as Mazda CX-5 (2.0 version 162HP / 213Nm), Peugeot 3008 1.6 THP (165HP / 240Nm) and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 1.4 TSI (150HP / 250Nm), the Proton X70 1.5L engine holds an advantage in power output. However, when compared with the Honda CR-V 1.5L VTEC Turbo (193HP / 243Nm), X70's power output falls a bit short, but its fuel economy and overall driving experience are still very excellent.

Safety Features: Comprehensive Protection for Peaceful Travel

In terms of safety, all Proton X70 models are equipped with 6 airbags, a Vehicle Stability Control system, Traction Control System, and Hill-start Assist. Higher-end models also include an ADAS advanced driving assistant system, which includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Information System, and Intelligent High Beam Control.

The application of these safety features gives X70 strong competitiveness among its peers, providing comprehensive safety for passengers and drivers.

Model Selection and Price

Currently, Proton X70 offers five different versions, four of which are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, priced between RM 98,800 and RM 123,800. The top-configuration 'Premium 2WD' version continues to use the 1.8-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine and is priced at RM 128,800.

Here are the specific configurations of each version:

1.5 TGDI Standard 2WD

Price: RM 98,800

Power: 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine, 177HP, 255Nm

Drive: Front-wheel drive

Safety Features: 6 airbags, Vehicle Stability Control system, Traction Control System, and Hill-start Assist.

Interior: Fabric seats

1.5 TGDI Executive 2WD

Selling Price: RM 110,800

Configuration: Leather seats and 18-inch alloy wheels added to the Standard version

Safety Configuration: ADAS Advanced Driving Assistance System

1.5 TGDI Executive AWD

Selling Price: RM 121,800

Configuration: Four-wheel drive system added to the Executive 2WD version

1.5 TGDI Premium 2WD

Selling Price: RM 123,900

Configuration: Nappa leather seats, 19-inch alloy wheels, and a 9-speaker Kenwood audio system added to the Executive version

1.8 TGDI Premium 2WD

Selling Price: RM 128,800

Power: 1.8 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, 184 horsepower, 300 Nm

Drive: Front-wheel drive

Configuration: Same as the 1.5 TGDI Premium 2WD version

Summary

The Proton X70 has seen significant upgrades in power, configuration, and safety, making it highly competitive in the market. Compared to competitors such as the Mazda CX-5 and Honda CR-V, the Proton X70 is more competitively priced, with excellent power output and fuel economy.

Whether you're after power performance or fuel economy, the Proton X70 has you covered. The version equipped with a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine not only provides ample power but also enhances fuel economy, making it a high-value-for-money SUV to consider. If you are looking for a C-Segment SUV that combines power, comfort, and safety, be sure to test drive the Proton X70.