The Malaysian people’s car has received a major upgrade with the debut of the all-new fourth-generation Proton Saga, boasting a fresh exterior and interior design, along with a new powertrain. Set to make its official launch very soon, we were treated to a preview session where the media fraternity got to go hands-on with the model!
Arguably the biggest change to the all-new fourth-gen Proton Saga is its beating heart, now a 1.5-litre Intelligent Green Technology (i-GT) naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine. This new engine produces 120 hp and 150 Nm of torque despite its Atkinson cycle, making it significantly more powerful than the previous 1.3-litre engine with 95 hp and 120 Nm.
Transmission choices differ by variant: the entry-level variants receive a four-speed automatic gearbox, while the range-topping Premium variant is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox.
Aside from the new powertrain, the exterior has also been thoroughly refreshed. Up front, the main attraction is a pair of new projector LED headlights flanking a front grille inspired by a ‘Sulaman Songket’ pattern, finished with the Ethereal Bow trim.
Towards the rear, the car gains a new “PROTON” wordmark trim across the boot lid. Crucially, the full-width LED taillights are exclusive to the Premium variant, with the lower variants receiving standard lighting units.
Inside, the biggest upgrade is the new dual-screen setup, which pairs a 9-inch infotainment display with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster. This setup is complemented by a 3D pattern inspired by pantai waves on the dashboard, Congkak-style air vents, and dual-tone leatherette upholstery (exclusive to the Premium variant).
It remains to be seen how much the all-new Proton Saga will cost – although bookings for the model are now open, with pricing estimated to be between RM40-50k. With all these infos now already out of the bag, we probably won’t have to wait too much longer now before its official launch!
RELATED: All-new 4th-gen Proton Saga previewed – new 1.5L NA is 25% more powerful, 14% more fuel efficient!
