After being revealed to the media in March, the all-new Proton X90 has been officially launched as the brand’s flagship model in Malaysia. In conjunction with the company’s 40th anniversary, the X90 SUV ushers in a new era for Proton as its first mild-hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) model, propelling the Malaysian automaker into the new energy vehicle (NEV) market.
During the event, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed gratitude to those involved in the national carmaker’s journey, including Dr Mahathir Mohamad who drove the company’s establishment.
Available in 6 and 7-seat configurations, the Proton X90 comprises four variants – Standard, Executive, Premium, and Flagship. The price for the Standard variant starts from RM123,800 (PKR 78.61 lac), and the price of the Executive variant begins at RM130,800 (PKR 83.05 lac). The Premium variant is priced at RM144,800 (PKR 91.94 lac) while the flagship variant retails at RM152,800 (PKR 97.02 lac).
Related: Proton Releases First Official Photos of its Flagship X90 SUV
In terms of design, the X90 is basically a rebadged Geely Haoyue except for a few cosmetic differences. However, apart from a swapped driving position, there isn’t much that differentiates X90 from its donor model. It inherits Geely’s “infinity loop” design around the air vents, prominent door grab handles, a three-spoke steering wheel, a stubby gear lever, and a rotary drive mode selector.
Also fitted is a freestanding 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen on the range-topping Flagship variant—the largest ever fitted to a Proton. The X90 continues to feature the “Hi Proton” voice control system, which can work everything from the air conditioning to the windows. A 10.25-inch instrument display, much larger than the 7-inch unit found in the X50 and X70, sits ahead of the driver and can be used to show a full-screen navigation map.
Related: Proton X90 Production Begins in Malaysia
All X90 variants run on the new mild-hybrid setup which pairs a 48V Electric Motor Synergy (EMS) System with the 1.5L TGDi engine and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Altogether, the powerplant produces 187hp and 300Nm of torque, which is 12hp and 45Nm more when compared to the petrol version in the X50 and X70.
In terms of active safety systems, the X90 introduces three new features for the brand, including rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision warning, and traffic sign recognition. Also fitted are the usual driver assists, such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and lane centering assist as well as emergency lane keep assist, park assist, and automatic high beam.
Related: Preve- When Proton Designed & Developed Its Own Cars
However, all of these items (save for rear collision warning and rear cross-traffic alert, which are standard) are only fitted to the Premium and Flagship models. The Standard and Executive variants are not even offered with AEB, which is a major omission for the price. Still, there are 6 airbags, stability control, blind spot monitoring, and a door opening warning as standard, enabling the X90 to achieve a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating. Also standard are front and rear parking sensors and a reverse camera, with the Executive model adding a 360-degree camera system (with a 3D view function) and a tire pressure monitoring system.
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
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