Proton Iriz 2023 Review

The B-segment hatchbacks have always been a necessary choice in the local market, as consumers seek budget-friendly options without compromising on basic features. The 2023 Proton Iriz 1.3 Standard CVT, being the entry-level model of the series, is priced at RM42,800 but comes standard with 4 airbags and vehicle stability control—such high safety features in an entry-level model are quite rare. During this test drive, my primary goal was to evaluate its practical performance in daily commutes and short family trips, and whether it truly balances value for money with practicality.

From the exterior, the 1.3 Standard CVT retains the design language of the Iriz family, with overall compact lines that don’t appear overly simplistic. The front features a moderately sized grille with a combination of halogen and LED headlights, giving it sufficient distinctiveness. The side profile showcases a waistline running from the front to the rear, and the 15-inch rims are well-matched to its entry-level positioning without feeling cheap. The rear’s LED taillights have a simple design and offer clear visibility when lit, suitable for daily use.

Stepping inside, the interior adopts a dark-tone theme with materials mainly composed of hard plastic. However, the joint seams are well-controlled, and the craftsmanship matches its price point. The dashboard layout is straightforward, with no complicated buttons, allowing new users to adapt easily. The instrument cluster features a backlit analog design, clearly displaying speed, RPM, and other information, which remains visible even under strong light. In terms of features, the front row is equipped with manual air conditioning, with adjustment knobs that have moderate resistance and are easy to operate. Although there’s no central touchscreen, the model comes with keyless entry and start functions as standard, significantly enhancing daily convenience. The seats are manually adjustable and offer sufficient support, making long journeys relatively comfortable. The rear seats can be folded in a 60:40 split, allowing for flexible space configuration when larger items need to be loaded.

In terms of space, the vehicle dimensions are 3945mm in length, 1722mm in width, and 1554mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2555mm—placing it at standard levels within the B-segment. The front row offers ample space, and a person of 175cm height would still have a fist’s worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. The rear row can accommodate two adults without issue, with about two fist gaps for legroom. The central floor bump is relatively low, making it manageable for a passenger to sit there temporarily. Regarding storage, the front door panels include cup holders and small compartments, and there’s a storage tray beneath the dashboard for items like mobile phones. The standard trunk space is 215L, allowing for two 20-inch suitcases, and folding the rear seats expands this space further, catering to the luggage needs for short family trips.

For performance, the 1.3L naturally aspirated engine produces a maximum power output of 70kW (95PS) and a peak torque of 120N·m, paired with a CVT gearbox. During daily commutes, throttle response is quick off the line, and low-end torque is sufficient for urban driving conditions. For example, overtaking on the LDP highway is smooth—when you press the accelerator harder, the transmission simulates gear shifts, offering a steady power output without noticeable jerks. The car provides two driving modes: Eco and Normal. In Eco mode, the throttle response is slightly slower, making it suitable for congested city driving where it can save fuel. In Normal mode, power delivery is more direct, and at highway cruising speeds of 100km/h, the engine maintains a consistent 2000 rpm, with noise levels well-controlled.

In terms of handling, the front MacPherson independent suspension paired with the rear torsion beam non-independent suspension is tuned for comfort. When passing speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension filters out most of the bumps, avoiding any harsh impact. The steering wheel has moderate effort with precise direction. It is nimble to handle when U-turning in residential parking lots or driving in narrow roads. During high-speed cornering, body roll is kept within a reasonable range, with no noticeable swaying, giving the driver ample confidence.

In the fuel consumption test, I drove 50 km each in urban congested areas and on highways, using air conditioning throughout. The final displayed fuel consumption was 7.2L/100km, which is not far from the official combined fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km. This result falls into the upper-middle level among fuel-powered cars of the same class. As for braking performance, the combination of front ventilated discs and rear drum brakes offers linear braking response; during emergency braking, the car remains stable without deviation.

Regarding ride comfort, noise control is well-managed. During urban driving, tire noise and engine noise are not noticeable. At 110 km/h on the highway, wind noise slightly increases but does not affect normal conversation. The seat padding is moderately firm and soft, with sufficient lumbar support, so long drives are not tiring. Although it lacks automatic air conditioning, the manual controls are simple to operate, and the cooling speed is adequate to meet needs.

In conclusion, the core strengths of the 2023 Proton Iriz 1.3 Standard CVT lie in its high cost-performance ratio and solid basic configuration. Compared to the same-class Perodua Myvi 1.3 X, it offers richer safety features, with four airbags and standard vehicle stability control, while the Myvi 1.3 X only has two airbags. Although its power parameters are slightly inferior, it is sufficient for daily use, and its fuel consumption performance is economical.

This car is suitable for budget-conscious families who prioritize safety and practicality, especially for young people new to the workforce or small families in need of a commuting vehicle. It does not have fancy configurations, but the basic functions are complete. The space meets daily needs, and the fuel consumption is within an acceptable range.

Overall, the 2023 Proton Iriz 1.3 Standard CVT is a pragmatic choice, offering safety features and practical space that exceed expectations at an entry-level price. It is ideal for consumers seeking cost-effectiveness and reliability.