Proton will soon launch the 2023 Proton X90, its large SUV with both 6- and 7-seater configurations. With the car somewhat unveiled, netizens have been quick to point out the lack of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone connectivity. So much so, that we have overlooked some ‘Proton-first’ features on the X90. What are they? Let’s get straight to them.
1. RCTA, RCW, TSI
The Proton X90 boasts first-time safety features for a Proton model. Not even equipped on the X50 and X70, the upcoming X90 comes with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Rear Collision Warning (RCW), and Traffic Sign Information (TSI).
The sensors on the car may not be so smoothly integrated into the design, but these are expected safety features for premium cars of today. You’re most probably already familiar with RCTA and RCW, but TSI is something rather interesting. This means that the ADAS camera system is more intelligent. If anything, the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) function could benefit from this new feature as well.
RELATED: 2023 Proton X90 unveiled ahead of launch – 4 variants, hybrid powertrain only
2. Type-C USB sockets
A small but significant feature would be the new Type-C USB sockets in the 2023 Proton X90. Now, premium cars only come with Type-C USB sockets while budget cars seem to still use Type-A USB sockets. If anything, the world is moving towards Type-C sockets to reduce e-waste.
Type-C sockets provide faster charging times for your mobile devices. Today, even the Toyota Vios comes with a Type-C USB socket. The Proton X90 is equipped with a mix of Type-C and Type-A USB sockets, with all three rows equipped with them.
3. Intelligent power tailgate (no kick sensor)
In terms of practicality, the 2023 Proton X90 introduces an ‘Intelligent Power Tailgate’ and this is different from what you’d find in the X70 and X50. Yes, the tailgate of the X90 is powered and it does come with a hands-free function, but without a kick sensor.
To open the power tailgate hands-free, you just need to have the keys with you and stay at a certain distance behind the tailgate for about 5 seconds. The indicators will then blink several times to let you know that the tailgate will open by itself. Should you cancel your intention while the indicators are blinking, just walk away and it will not proceed to open the tailgate.
4. Walk-away lock function and Nearby auto unlock
Next, the 2023 Proton X90 introduces a walk-away lock and nearby auto unlock function to Proton cars. The front door handles still come with a keyless sensor but now things can be even more hassle-free as you can simply walk away from the Proton X90 (with the keys with you) to lock the car. To unlock the car, you simply need to approach the car (with the keys with you as well). A great convenience.
5. A hybrid powertrain
The most obvious new thing for Proton is the hybrid powertrain. The Proton X90 is the company’s first “New Energy Vehicle” with its mild hybrid (MHEV) powertrain. The X90 houses a 48V mild hybrid system which consists of a 1.5-litre TGDI engine and an electric drive system. It will also be the first local car model with a hybrid powertrain that you could actually purchase. (The Ativa Hybrid is only available on a leasing programme).
The benefits of this hybrid system? Well, Proton says that it is 15% more fuel efficient than its pure petrol version (a 1.5-litre TGDI Geely Haoyue). Oh, and in case you were wondering, the X90’s powertrain makes 190 hp (metric) and 300 Nm. Paired with the engine is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Only previewed for the time being, Proton has already announced that the Proton X90 will come in four variants. Of course, some of these “never-before” features would not be available on certain lower-tier variants.
