Proton has launched the much awaited X50 crossover SUV in its home market. This is the second Geely-based model after X70 SUV to be included in Malaysian automaker’s product portfolio ever since it came under the influence of Chinese auto giant.
Based on Geely BinYue (SX11), which is built on Geely’s BMA modular architecture, the Proton X50 measures 4,330 mm in negth, 1,800 mm in width and 1,609 mm in height while having a 2,600 mm wheelbase. In terms of dimensions the X50 is very much identical to the Honda Vezel/ HR-V we have here being just 4mm shorter in length & stands 4mm taller. However its 28mm wider and has a 10mm shorter wheelbase than the Vezel. According to Proton, the X50 features a total of 406 unique parts compared to the BinYue, as a result of the switch from LHD to RHD.
The Proton X50
Design-wise the X50 remains much identical to its donor model– BinYue apart from some cosmetic differences. It wear Proton’s signature infinite weave pattern grille up front and has a slightly tweaked rear end. The X50 gets red accents on its grille, on front and rear brake calipers and gets a black & red color coded interior to imprint its sportier appearance.
Inside, the tri-color interior (lower variants has dual tone) gets flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen for base models & 10.25-inch touchscreen powered by a GKUI infotainment system for up-spec trims, while other available features include voice commands, automatic air-conditioning, electronic parking brake, selectable drive modes, second-row air vents with USB charging ports, a digital instrument cluster display & power tailgate.
Under the hood there is a 1.5 liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine co-developed by Geely and Volvo which is offered in two guises. Sparing the flagship version, the rest of the lineup gets 150 hp/ 226Nm unit with a claimed fuel consumption figure of 6.5 liters per 100 km (15.38km/l). The flagship version gets a more powerful direct-injected engine which churns out 177 hp power and 255 Nm of torque with 0 to 100 km/h figures of 7.9 seconds while capable to consume only 6.4 liters of petrol per 100 km (15.63km/l). All X50 variants are front-wheel drive and come with the same 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission as available with the X70.
Proton X50 interior
Standard equipment includes keyless entry with remote engine start, push-button start, manual air-conditioning, an N95 cabin filter, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera and four speakers. The Executive variant gets automatic headlights, leather steering wheel, front parking sensors and faux leather upholstery.
Moving up to the Premium version, there are roof rails, a welcome light function, automatic climate control, 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 360-degree camera system and 6 speakers, in addition to what’s offered with the standard & executive variants. The Flagship version gets automatic wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a panoramic sunroof.
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In terms of safety the Proton X50 boasts Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating. As standard, the X50 comes with 4 airbags, ABS with EBD and BA, ESC, HSA, hill descent control and rear Isofix child seat anchors. The Executive variant gets curtain airbags to make it 6 in total, while the Premium adds a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
The Flagship variant gets an upgraded version of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), with Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), which combines adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centering assist to provide Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities. This allows the X50 to accelerate, brake and steer on its own.
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Other features include autonomous emergency braking (now with pedestrian detection), lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, automatic high beam and parking assist for entering parallel and perpendicular spaces and for exiting parallel spots.
The 2020 Proton X50 spec sheet & pricing
The Proton X50 is priced at RM79,200 (PKR 30.36 lac) for the base 1.5T Standard, RM84,800 (PKR 32.79 lac) for the Executive, RM93,200 (PKR 36.04 lac) for the Premium and RM103,300 (PKR 39.95 lac) for the 1.5 TGDi Flagship.
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
