Peter Lyon
July 24, 2025
So now the slow-drip tease campaign is over as Proton finally releases its all-new 2025 Proton X50 into its home market of Malaysia. Starting at RM89,800, the new B-segment SUV comes in three different variants.
The price for the base X50 is RM3,500 cheaper for the Executive version, whereas the Premium and Flagship model retain the pricing of their predecessor. And since the Standard variant is no longer offered, the entry-level model is now RM3,500 higher than before.
The outer design of the new X50 is similar to that of the Geely Binyue L, which was introduced in facelift guise last year in China. Proton is selling the new X50 as a “all-new” model, claiming that enough improvements have been made to warrant the moniker, even though it was originally a facelifted model.
The new X50’s powertrain is the most significant upgrade. All versions now come standard with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine instead of the underperforming three-cylinder models.
Packing 181 horsepower and 290 Nm of torque, that translates to a 34 horsepower and 64 Nm improvement over the previous port-injection (MPI) variations, as well as a 4 horsepower and 35 Nm gain over the previous range-topping direct-injection (TGDi) engine.
The new X50 outperforms the outgoing flagship model by 0.3 seconds, nothing up the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.6 seconds using a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DCT) delivering power to the front wheels.
The X50’s bodywork boasts a striking new front fascia with a strong pattern of horizontal slats that gives the appearance of an even larger front grille. The redesigned X50 has a new full-width tail light design and keeps its quad exhaust outlets, a feature that is more sensible now given its new four-cylinder engine. To complete the sporty appearance, a black rear spoiler is fitted to the top-spec Flagship model.
Additionally, the interior of the brand-new Proton X50 has undergone a complete redesign, now taking inspiration from the Proton eMAS 7. A central 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from the start dominates the dashboard. A new 8.88-inch letterbox-style digital instrument cluster for the driver has taken the place of the previous semi-digital gauge cluster.
Inside, the centre console has been redesigned and a shift lever positioned on the steering column now controls gear selection, making room in the central console for two smartphone charging pads.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Looking very European is design, almost Volkswagen-like, the new X50 is a smart-looking SUV with a ample charm and cost performance. In conjunction with this X50 launch, the national brand has three special launch packages which include a trade-in overtrade support up to RM10,000 for the first 10,000 customers, special financing packages, an upgraded Proton insurance programme, and a RM4,000 rebate, which drops the sticker price of the Proton X50 down to RM85,800 for the X50 Executive.
