Proton has officially unveiled its first sporty SUV at Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. Selected guests including auto journalists, corporate executives and potential corporate buyers had an opportunity to take a closer look at the X70.
Related: Geely Boyue Premium SUV
The X70 SUV is Proton’s first vehicle which is based on the Geely Boyue. Reportedly Geely will bring forth, one new model every year which means more Geely based Proton vehicles are expected to arrive in future.
Abdul Rashid Musa, CEO of Proton  Edar, said:
“Since our public pre-order on September 8th, the response from the customers has been very enthusiastic. The modernization and sophisticated design of the Proton X70 set a new high for the company, so we held a preview meeting for our customers. Everyone is watching the technology level and advanced materials of this sports SUV up close. Proton is very excited about this new car and hopes that customers will have the same feeling after the preview.”
While there are few changes to the external lines to differentiate the Proton SUV from its Geely counterpart, Proton has incorporated a few uniquely Malaysian design touches to the X70. Up front, it gets a unique winged grille design with three horizontal bars that converge into the Proton badge, and the entire piece is encased in thick chrome surrounds.
Related: All New Geely BinRui Sedan Launched in China
Proton’s head of design, Azlan Othman, had indicated that the reason for the minor cosmetic tweaks is to speed up the X70’s market introduction, but more visual changes will be incorporated in the CKD version, which is slated for a mid-2019 arrival.
The Proton X70 SUV is powered by a 1.8 liter TGDi turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 181 hp and 285 Nm of torque. There will be four variants on offer, starting with the base Standard 2WD, Premium 2WD, Executive 2WD, and the top-spec Executive AWD.
Related: Video: Dr. Mahatir Mohammad Drives Upcoming Proton SUV (Geely Boyue)
Features include, but not limited to 6 Airbags, ABS with EBS and BA, Auto headlights & wipers, keyless entry (with active touch sensors on the front door handles), push-start, 360-degree camera, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, climate control with smart air purifier system, electrically foldable wing mirrors, LED projector headlights with LED DRLs, LED fog lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels etc.
There is also a voice recognition support as well as a fully-digital and configurable instrument panel, which is a first for the Proton brand. The Proton X70 SUV will officially be launched in Malaysia towards the end of this year. Prices are yet to be announced though.
Related: Al-Haj Group Signs Agreement with Proton
Last month, Al-Haj group of Pakistan has signed an agreement with Proton as the exclusive authorized distributor and assemblers of Proton vehicles in Pakistan. Ideally it may open up doors to Proton branded Geely vehicles in Pakistan somewhere down the line. Stay tuned to CarSpiritPK for more updates.
Source: KeyAuto
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
