PROTON has launched the upgraded 2020 Proton X70. There have been quite a few changes to one of Malaysia's most popular SUVs in recent times, notably the 7 speed wet clutch DCT gearbox and extra 15Nm torque (300Nm) as well as some suspension tuning which makes the SUV more driveable than ever. Fuel economy seems to have been improved a touch...not by much as it is still a SUV on the heavy side.but makes it feel darn solid when you are inside it. Yes, we know because we have already driven it as prior to the launch today, a bunch of us automotive hacks had the opportunity to take it for a spin. Have a look at our YouTube Channel's video below.
.
The gearbox being a wet clutch model should be more sturdy and with its slow, smooth (almost torque converter like) and casual shift patterns it should be a reliable one. Proton has also stated that those who have bought the one with the 6 speed automatic need not worry as spares are guaranteed like all cars (which is a mandatory 10 year period from the time of purchase). The new gearbox is the main factor in supposedly bringing down the fuel consumption slightly. Most likely due to closer gear ratios allowing proper gearing for the engine to use. This is aside from the extra 15Nm of torque which is also felt.
The suspension tuning via the dampers have also made the vehicle driving dynamics a tad better. It still feels European in terms of overall handling, but it feels a little bit more planted at higher speeds. At low speeds, the extra gears and the extra torque also makes it nimbler than before.
Other notable changes are the reclining rear seat back, ventilated front seats for the a/c to pump cool air to your buttocks and nether regions, new PROTON logos and gearknob (for the DCT), new engine cover, and a power tailgate with foot sensor. There is also a new colour called space grey. Do note th at these equipment are fitted to the Premium and sunroof equipped Premium X variant.
It still does the talking car thing. THe 'Hi Proton' is still there, as is the Baidu based Navigation system built into the infortainment system. That infotainment system is pretty good, but the navigation needs to have a little bit faster programming as it does lag a little in terms of telling you to turn and the English used may be scorned by some Grammar Nazis. Aside from that, it is still okay and couple that with Proton's (or Geely's) active safety systems (ADAS), with the blind spot sensors, automated emergency braking, the X70 seems pretty good in terms of tech inside it.
This model is now locally assembled in Malaysia. Prior to this, the Proton X70, which is a rebadged Geely Boyue was fully imported from China. Now with local assembly, the build quality of the materials inside seem the same. As is the overall assembly if you look at it closely. In terms of fit and finish that is.
There have been some faults in terms of door sills in the version I tried, but this could be down to it being the first few units out of Proton's RM1.2 billion facility extension of their Tanjung Malim plant. Like any production line, it will only get better once everyone gets the hang of it. But overall, the X70 CKD seems to be a pretty good proposition.
All for almost the same price. Actually cheaper! The 2020 Proton X70 CKD will have 4 variants with the price starting at RM94,800 for the base variant, RM106,800 for the Executive, RM119,800 for Premium without sunroof and RM122,800 for the full lonty Premium X sunroof variant. Prices are on the road without insurance through out Malaysia including Sabah and Sarawak.
If you take a look at the video, which we will put up at 430pm Malaysian time today, the SUV is quite comptent. Since this video was shot prior to the official launch we did not have a clue of how much it will cost.
If you take a look at the video, which we will put up at 430pm Malaysian time today, the SUV is quite comptent. Since this video was shot prior to the official launch we did not have a clue of how much it will cost.
As you've noticed, there is now an option for no sunroof on the Premium variant as well as one with the sunroof. Customer survey found that some wanted the Premium variant without the sunroof. Proton also officially dropped the X70 AWD Executive variant due to the lack of demand.
As always, with Proton these days are the early bird packages where you can save up to RM3,000 more. Take a look at the photo below.
As always, with Proton these days are the early bird packages where you can save up to RM3,000 more. Take a look at the photo below.
The 2020 Proton X70 is priced from:
2020 Proton X70 Standard 2WD – RM94,800
2020 Proton X70 Executive 2WD – RM106,800
2020 Proton X70 Premium 2WD – RM119,800
2020 Proton X70 Premium X 2WD – RM122,800
Enhanced Features and New Technology
The 2020 Proton X70 brings with it several new features designed to further delight customers as well as new technology to make it an even more competent vehicle. These include an increase in torque output, an improvement in fuel economy as well as the introduction of a brand new gearbox.
The most important technological enhancement is the introduction of a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (7-DCT) in place of the six-speed Automatic Transmission (6AT) previously used. Among others things and as a result of taller ratios, the new gearbox helps to reduce fuel consumption by 13% to 7.6l/100km. It also results in much smoother and quicker gear changes resulting in a superior driving experience.
Fitting the new 7-DCT gearbox allowed PROTON’s engineers to use a new engine map, boosting the torque output. The 2020 Proton X70 now delivers 5% more torque, bringing its measured twisting force up to 300Nm.
Combined with the quicker shifting gearbox the SUV has shaved 1 second off its 0-100km/h time, allowing it to accomplish the century sprint in 9.5 seconds.
Aside from the mechanical improvements, PROTON also added enhancements to the interior. Premium and Premium X variants now receive ventilated front seats that allow cool air to circulate to the driver and front seat passenger.
Further enhancing the practicality of the 2020 Proton X70 is the inclusion of a powered tailgate, which is available from the Executive variant. The feature is height adjustable allowing for hassle free access to the boot compartment and is supplemented by a foot sensor for the top-two specification levels. Regardless of variant, the split folding rear seat back now has a recline function to adjust the rake of the rear seats and boost passenger comfort.
Built and tested with Malaysian customers in mind
The 2020 Proton X70 was put through rigorous testing to ensure that it would meet the challenge posed by Malaysian roads and driving conditions. The SUV was put through its’ paces by PROTON’s development engineers with over 2 million kilometres of testing clocked in an effort to ensure the robustness of the vehicle and its systems.
Based on the way it performed while undergoing tests in Malaysia, the 2020 Proton X70 also received an improved ride thanks to adjustments that were done to the suspension. This has resulted in a more refined and nuanced driving experience, matching the premium class aspirations of the brand. PROTON also said a pivotal difference with their newest model is how many, if not all of the interior changes were made based on extensive customer feedback, garnered from both existing customers and focus groups.
“We wanted to ensure our customer’s needs were met with the 2020 Proton X70 and so many of the new features you see are based on what customers felt they wanted. This is critical for us because our success moving forward will be determined by how well we listen to our customers and more importantly, how quickly we can move to meet the demands of the market”, said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.
“The launch of the 2020 Proton X70 also brings the Company full circle in its current product cycle. In 2019 we launched updated versions of the Proton Persona, Iriz, Exora and Saga and after today’s event, every model sold by PROTON has been updated and is manufactured in Malaysia,” he added.
Four variants offer options at different price points
Similar to its predecessor, the 2020 Proton X70 is offered in four distinct variants though the line-up has been altered. The Standard variant still kicks off the range followed by the Executive. The AWD Executive has been dropped so the next variant is the Premium with the all-new Premium X topping the range.
All variants are offered with the Integrated Cockpit Information System (GKUI) system that made its debut in the previous model. Featuring an embedded eSIM card, the system offers online music streaming, navigation, weather forecasts and voice recognition via an 8-inch Android based touchscreen interface. Also carried over is the Proton
Link app, allowing owners to stay connected to their vehicle via their mobile device and creating a driving profile based on distance travelled, fuel economy and journey times while keeping them informed of service intervals.
Powering every 2020 Proton X70 is the familiar 1.8-litre Turbocharged, Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engine. As previously mentioned, torque has been boosted by 5% to 300Nm from 1,750 – 4,000rpm. Power remains at 184 PS at 5,500rpm but the gearbox is now a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (7-DCT). The combination results in a 13% improvement in fuel consumption and has been awarded the energy efficient vehicle (EEV) status by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).
Keeping occupants safe is a comprehensive list of safety equipment. All variants are equipped with six SRS airbags, rear seat ISOFIX mounts with top tether anchorage, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Auto Brake Hold, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Hold Assist (HHA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).
As with the previous model, a 360 Camera is offered on Executive, Premium and Premium X variants but the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite is only fitted to the latter two.Consisting of active and cognitive safety systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Information
System (BLIS), Door Opening Warning System (DOW) and Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC), the ADAS suite provides an additional layer of safety helps reduce the risk of accidents.
Overall, the comprehensive safety equipment provided on the 2020 Proton X70 has seen it awarded a 5-Star safety rating by ASEAN NCAP.
No comments:
Post a Comment