Video: 2022 Proton Saga 1.3 Premium S review – redefining the National car



The Proton Saga is a car that needs zero introduction, because with nearly two million units sold across its lifetime, chances are, many of you would’ve had a personal experience with it too. Still, it’s been 37 whole years since the original Proton Saga made its debut on stage, so has the 2022 Proton Saga 1.3 Premium S grown up to be something more than just a “cheap national car”?

If you ask us, the answer is most definitely a resounding yes. Sure, its powertrain performance isn’t going to turn heads, with the engine choice now shrinking to only one 1.3-litre inline-four option that makes only 95 hp and 120 Nm. But aside from that, almost everything else is a rank above its peers.

Most notably, to us, is its handling capabilities. Despite still being built on the same ol’ chassis that underpins the original second-generation Saga BLM, Proton engineers have significantly improved its torsional rigidity, allowing the suspensions to work to their fullest for a comfortable, yet competent – or even exciting – ride.

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And that’s not all, because on this latest 2022 Premium S variant, the Proton Saga has also gained a lot more creature comfort features such as keyless entry, and an external boot-release button at the back. These may sound simple, but they make such a big difference to the ownership and driving experience of a car.

The Proton Saga may still be one of the most affordable cars you can buy today, but the car is anything but “cheap”.