Can the Proton Persona facelift take on the Toyota Vios & Honda City?



Following the launch of the facelifted 2019 Proton Iriz, the national carmaker has also previewed the hatchback’s sedan twin, the 2019 Proton Persona.

Like the Iriz, the Persona gains styling enhancements, first-in-class features and improved mechanical bits that Proton claims puts the B-Segment sedan right up there with class-leading non-national models.

Let’s start with the variant breakdown. There will be four variants of the Persona available – Standard 1.6L MT, Standard 1.6L CVT, Executive 1.6L CVT and Premium 1.6L CVT. They all feature the same 1.6-litre VVT and CVT combo making 109 hp and 150 Nm driving the front wheels.

Visual differences on the 2019 Persona include a new front grille with Ethereal Bow and Infinite Weave motive – Proton’s new family face, sleek lower bumper with LED daytime running lights (on Executive & Premium only), 15-inch eight twin-spoke aluminium wheels wrapped in 185/55 profile rubbers, shark fin antenna, rear spoiler (standard across the range), restyled rear bumper with chrome lining and the Proton inscription spelled out across the boot lid.

Equipment found on the entry-level Standard 1.6L MT includes fabric seats, Tricot Headliner (grey), LCD Multi-info Display, 2 speakers, 2DIN audio system and 2 rear USB chargers. Boot space remains unchanged at 510 litres.

The Executive 1.6L MT adds on Smart Keyless entry, semi-leather seats, 7.0-inch GKUI-based touchscreen infotainment system, four speakers, multifunctional steering wheel, TFT Multi Info Display and a reverse camera with Dynamic Guidelines.

Exclusive to the range-topping Premium 1.6L CVT are 4G and Wi-Fi Connectivity (e-SIM), “Hi Proton” Voice Command, Online Navigation, Music Streaming, frameless rear-view mirror, automatic headlamps and leather wrapped multifunctional steering wheel.

Proton has not disclosed the pricing of the 2019 Proton Persona but has assured that the launch of both the Iriz and Persona will happen very soon. Order books for the Persona are now open and Proton is doing a flash booking where interested buyers can place a reservation for just RM9.90.


IMAGE GALLERY

2019 Proton Persona Facelift 1.6L CVT