2023 Proton X70 1.8 TGDi Premium 2WD Review

In recent years, the competition in Malaysia's C-Segment SUV market has become increasingly intense. Consumers are now seeking practicality for family scenarios while also valuing a balance between technological features and performance. As a popular model in this segment, the 2023 Proton X70 1.8 TGDi Premium 2WD has undergone upgrades in configuration details and power tuning. Through a real test drive, we aim to verify whether it can maintain its previous market advantages while meeting the core needs of current users.

In terms of exterior design, the 2023 X70 Premium retains the family-style design, featuring bold lines and a distinctive look. The front fascia’s "infinite extension" grille is paired with chrome accents and connects seamlessly to the LED headlights on both sides, visually broadening the proportion of the front end. The headlights integrate daytime running lights, which are clearly visible when illuminated, and the automatic headlight function adds convenience for daily use. The vehicle's side profile features 19-inch multi-spoke wheels paired with 225/55 R19 tires, and the slightly muscular lines around the wheel arches align well with the SUV position. Its dimensions of 4519mm in length and a wheelbase of 2670mm place it above average within its class. At the rear, the continuous taillight design remains a highlight, with neatly arranged internal LED light sources that offer high recognition when lit at night. The silver guard plate below the rear bumper combined with the dual-exhaust layout adds a touch of sportiness.

Inside the cabin, the interior is predominantly black, complemented by silver trim and soft-touch materials, achieving an overall texture that matches its Premium positioning. The dashboard layout is simple, with an 8-inch touchscreen at the center offering decent operational smoothness and supporting basic functions like Bluetooth and CarPlay. Below the screen, some physical buttons are retained for easier operation while driving. The instrument cluster features a fully digital design, allowing for different display modes to show speed, RPM, fuel consumption, and driving assistance information clearly. For features, the front seats support electric adjustments and ventilation functions, and the passenger seat is equipped with a shoulder adjustment switch, enhancing convenience for rear passengers to adjust the seat position. The rear seats support a 60:40 split and backrest adjustment, and when folded, the trunk capacity can expand from 515L to a larger space, meeting loading needs. Additionally, rear air conditioning vents, 220V/230V power outlets, and a panoramic sunroof are all equipped, offering strong practicality.

In terms of space, a 175cm tall tester sitting in the front seat reported about a fist and two fingers of headroom after adjusting the seat. Keeping the front seat position unchanged, rear legroom reaches two fists, and rear headroom offers about a fist, providing ample space. The middle section of the rear floor is not significantly raised, meaning that the comfort of the middle passenger is not overly affected when three individuals sit in the back. In terms of storage, the door storage slots, central armrest box, and glove compartment have moderate capacities, while the front cup holders come with a limiter design, showcasing thoughtful attention to detail.

In terms of performance, the vehicle is equipped with a 1.8T turbocharged engine that outputs maximum power at 5500rpm. The peak torque figure was not explicitly stated, but during actual driving, the power response during start-up is relatively brisk. The DCT transmission shows improved shifting smoothness, and the jerking feeling during low-speed driving has been mitigated compared to the older model. When switched to sport mode, the throttle sensitivity increases, and acceleration provides a noticeable push-back sensation. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time of 9.5 seconds is more than sufficient for everyday overtaking needs.

In terms of control and chassis performance, the steering wheel has a moderate turning force, precise pointing, and minimal dead spots; the front MacPherson and rear multi-link independent suspension are tuned for comfort, effectively filtering small surface bumps, resulting in a smooth driving texture; when passing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, the suspension quickly absorbs the impact, and the body remains stable with no noticeable shaking. In terms of braking, the brake pedal has a linear travel, the braking force is released evenly, and the car body maintains a stable posture during emergency braking.

In the fuel consumption test, we traveled approximately 50km each on congested city roads and highways, with an average fuel consumption of about 8.5L/100km, which is fairly standard. Regarding noise control, wind noise and tire noise at high speeds are slightly noticeable but within an acceptable range, and engine noise is audible inside the cabin during rapid acceleration but relatively quiet during regular cruising.

As for the driving assistance system, the ACC adaptive cruise control is convenient to use on highways, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead; functions such as lane departure warning, active braking, and lane change assist are responsive, enhancing driving safety.

To summarize, the core advantages of the 2023 Proton X70 1.8 TGDi Premium 2WD lie in its balanced space performance, rich features, and reliable power system. Compared to competitors in the same segment, it offers a competitive price (RM 128,800) and a good cost-to-feature ratio, especially with configurations like ventilated seats, a full LCD dashboard, and a panoramic sunroof, which are relatively rare in vehicles at this price point.

This car is suitable for users prioritizing family practicality, as it can meet the needs of both daily commuting and weekend short trips; additionally, its abundant safety features make it ideal for inexperienced drivers. However, the relatively small central control screen and limited infotainment system functionality are areas for improvement. Overall, the 2023 Proton X70 Premium remains a competitive choice in the C-segment SUV market, with balanced product offerings that cater to the needs of most family users.