In this article, we will examine the current version of Malaysia’s most popular SUV, the Proton X50. But before we do that, we need to just quickly mention that a new variant based on China’s Geely Binyue model is expected out in the second half of 2023. And you can already feel the buzz in dealerships.
In October 2020, the first-generation Proton X50 made its debut in Malaysia, sparking great excitement during a period when the COVID-19 pandemic had caused a sense of doom. It gained immense popularity right away, and as a result, the X50 has risen to the top spot in the SUV class.
The X50 remains a very popular option for SUV customers despite the fact that several new competitors have entered the market since 2020. It is provided at appealing pricing points in all four models with complete equipment packages. In actuality, the X50 has many features that are generally only found in versions that cost considerably more, especially the more expensive models.
Prices range from RM86,300 for the X50 1.5T Standard, with higher spec variants including the 1.5 TGDi Flagship, the 1.5T Executive and the 1.5T Premium.
Proton employs top-quality features across the entire X50 range. For instance, all of the variations offer intelligent entry with push-button engine start and remote engine starting, and three of the variants have faux-leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Following the trend towards more compact power units, the X50 employs smaller powertrains like the TGDi engine, for instance, which has a 3-cylinder 1.5 litre configuration with turbocharging and direct injection (in the Flagship version). This version pumps out 177 ps and 255 Nm or torque.
Fuel efficiency is up to 15.6 km/litre with the 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) and three driver-selectable drive modes help to deliver an impressive range of at least 700 km on a full tank.
Numerous clever features built into the X50 make driving safer, more fun, and less stressful. The X50 has a wide range of connectivity, including 4G and Wifi, which keeps the driver informed at all times and links the device to the internet for navigation, music streaming, and weather predictions. The voice command system also controls the sunroof, air conditioning, and windows, allowing the driver to keep both hands on the wheel.
The highly-engineered and durable construction of the X50 as well as the numerous passive and active safety measures and systems also protect its occupants. These include such standard features as ABS, traction control, stability control, braking assist, and hill descent control.
OUR THOUGHTS
It’s easy to see why the X50 is so popular. It has great design and packaging, good interior quality and connectivity, and a flexible lineup of engines. It may not drive or ride as well as a Honda HR-V or Mazda CX-3, but in terms of design, quality, and economy, it can certainly keeps up with those Japanese rivals in addition to the Hyundai Kona, and more recently, the Toyota Corolla Cross and Perodua Ativa, and undercuts them all on price.