Proton X90 1.5TGDI BSG Standard 2023 Review

As local household demand for 7-seater mid-to-large SUVs continues to rise, competition in the D-Segment market has become increasingly fierce. Consumers value not only spacious practicality but also expect higher standards in power smoothness and versatility of configurations. The Proton X90 1.5TGDI BSG Standard, as the flagship 7-seater SUV of the brand, has garnered significant attention since its launch for its 1.5T+48V mild hybrid system, wheelbase of up to 2805mm, and premium intelligent features. The main purpose of this test drive was to assess its performance in daily commuting and family travel scenarios to see if it can meet the D-Segment users' expectations for balance.

The Proton X90's exterior design follows a stable and grand approach, with a boxy overall profile that aligns with the positioning of a mid-to-large SUV. The front features a large vertical waterfall-style grille with the distinctive Proton brand logo, creating high recognizability. On both sides, LED headlight assemblies connect to the grille, and daytime running lights are integrated within the assemblies. The automatic headlight function also adds convenience for daily use. The side of the vehicle features straight lines, with a waistline running from the front to the rear, enhancing the visual layers. The 18-inch wheels paired with 225/55 R18 tires boast a simple yet practical design. At the rear, the through-type taillight design enhances recognition, and the chrome trim on the rear bumper along with a dual exhaust layout (decorative) gives the rear a more dynamic appearance.

For the interior, the Proton X90 Standard version predominantly adopts dark-toned color schemes. The dashboard is primarily covered in soft-touch plastics and leather, providing a pleasant tactile experience. A 12.3-inch central touchscreen is positioned at the center of the dashboard, with a clear interface layout and smooth operation. It supports Bluetooth, CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The instrument cluster features a full-LCD multifunctional display, showcasing information such as RPM, speed, and fuel consumption. The head-up display (HUD) functionality reduces the need for drivers to lower their gaze to check the instrument cluster, enhancing road safety. In terms of seating configuration, the driver’s seat supports 6-way manual adjustment, while the front passenger’s seat offers 4-way manual adjustment. The seat padding is thick and provides proper support. The second-row seats support fore-and-aft sliding and backrest angle adjustments, while the third-row seats are more suitable for children or adults on short trips. Regarding storage space, the front door panels can hold two bottles of water, the central armrest features a spacious compartment, and the nearly flat floor in the second row improves comfort for the middle passenger.

In terms of space performance, the Proton X90 has a wheelbase of 2805mm, with dimensions of 4830mm in length and 1900mm in width, which places it in the upper-middle range among 7-seater SUVs. When the second-row seat is adjusted to a moderate position, a 175cm tall passenger can enjoy two fists of legroom and one fist of headroom. The third-row seat offers about one fist of legroom and four fingers of headroom, sufficient for short trips. The trunk's regular capacity is not large, but folding down the third-row seats expands the capacity to a sizeable space, capable of accommodating multiple suitcases or large items. Additionally, the interior is equipped with multiple USB ports and 220V/230V power outlets, providing convenience for passengers to charge devices.

Powertrain-wise, the Proton X90 is equipped with a 1.5T three-cylinder turbocharged engine + 48V mild hybrid system. The engine delivers a maximum power of 177PS and a peak torque of 255N·m (Note: The original system's combined torque indication might be incorrect; this is based on the engine's actual torque). The electric motor provides a maximum power of 14PS and a peak torque of 52N·m, paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. During daily driving, the mild hybrid system mainly assists during start-up and acceleration. The power response during start-up is quick, with no obvious turbo lag. During acceleration, the engine and motor work together for smooth power output. The transmission has clear shifting logic, with positive upshifts and timely downshifts. At highway cruising speeds, the engine maintains a speed of around 1800rpm, and in-cabin noise is well-controlled, with wind and tire noise being minimal.

In terms of handling and suspension, the Proton X90 adopts a combination of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort. When driving on smooth roads, the suspension filters out most of the small bumps, providing a comfortable in-cabin experience. When passing speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension handles impacts smoothly without a noticeable harsh feeling. The steering wheel has moderate weight, with average precision, but it suits the positioning of a family SUV. The chassis feels solid, offering good stability at high speeds, and body roll is within acceptable limits during cornering.

Regarding fuel consumption, this test drive was mainly conducted on urban roads with occasional highway sections. The combined fuel consumption was about 8.5L per 100 kilometers, which is considered moderate for a 1.7-ton 7-seater SUV. As for the braking system, the front ventilated disc + rear ventilated disc combination provides responsive braking, with linear braking force and a comfortable pedal feel during daily driving.

In conclusion, the main advantages of the Proton X90 1.5TGDI BSG Standard version lie in its spacious 7-seater configuration, rich features (such as 360-degree panoramic view, HUD, 6 airbags, etc.), and smooth power performance. Compared with SUVs in the same class, such as the Honda CR-V (mainly 5-seater) and the Toyota Fortuner (non-unibody construction), the Proton X90 offers more flexibility in space and superior configurations, while also being more affordable.

This car is suitable for families who prioritize space practicality and rich configurations, especially those who often need to accommodate multiple passengers. Its smooth performance and comfortable suspension make it ideal for daily commutes and long-distance driving. However, the third-row space is limited and more suitable for children or short trips. For users who frequently need to carry seven passengers, a larger vehicle might be a better choice.

Overall, the Proton X90 1.5TGDI BSG Standard 2023 is a well-balanced 7-seater SUV. It meets the needs of family users in terms of space, features, and power, and its price of RM123,800 makes it highly cost-effective in the D-segment market. If you are looking for a spacious, well-equipped family 7-seater SUV, the Proton X90 Standard version is worth considering.