Friday, November 28, 2025

All new 2026 Proton Saga launched. Super specs at super affordable prices

The new 2026 Proton Saga sedan has been launched and it's loaded with equipment at very affordable prices too. It is still a great starter car and prices start from RM37,990 inclusive of launch rebate worth RM1,000. 
Proton has also stated that deliveries to early booking customers to begin immediately after its launch. 

I am actually away on holiday and can't really report much. But as with many of Proton's recently released vehicles, they allowed us to have a go with it prior to the official launch and I have to say that after trying out the Saga 1.5l in its Premium form, it offers Malaysians so much for under RM50,000. 

The equipment levels and active safety functions inside the new top spec Saga could make it the safest car that you can own under Rm50,000. ASEAN NCAP has also given it a 4 Star rating (link here) and after trying out its ADAS features, it's decently impressive for how much Proton wants for it. 

Now even if you don't care for all of that safety features, the infotainment sysyem sitting on its new dashboard is good with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The new dashboard looks good for what is essentially a budget car and while there are hard plastics, I cannot fault its overall execution for what it is. 

Outside, it looks familiar and similar. I would have liked it if Proton changed the slightly skinny looking profile even more but when you're on a budget to improve a legacy platform, the major mounting points aren't changed and the designers have to play with what they have. Improvements on the chassis packaging has freed up front internal space however but it terms of the shape, it is still there with a totally new front and rear end, with the middle being the same. 

But hey, the car offers a lot of space and decent performance. The new petrol engine, a 1.5l four cylinder 120hp 150Nm Geely derived unit is revvy but refined compared to the rough Proton engine it replaced. The new CVT in the Premium specced one is a traditional CVT in that it holds its revs to get the most optimum and efficient power delivery. Hence the fact it likes to hold its revs until you lift off the throttle. A little noisy but as efficient a CVT can be. Why isn't it a step up CVT? I suppose it would make it less fuel efficient and also cost more programming. With the Saga benchmarked against the fuel sipping Perodua Bezza, I think efficiency was chosen in the end. But the new Saga in CVT form is okay for what it is. An affordable car. 

If you don't like CVTs, the two other variants are equipped with the familiar 4speed torque converter. It will not be as fuel efficient as the CVT but it should drive like how we expect it to drive. Just don't expect Cvt efficiency in terms of fuel consumption. There are choices, which is good.




Anyway, watch our video about the new Saga 1.5l sedan. And for more details read the press release below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE
THE ALL-NEW SAGA IS HERE: MALAYSIA’S ICONIC SEDAN DRIVES NATION INTO A 
NEW ERA

Kuala Lumpur, 27 November 2025 – PROTON, Malaysia’s national carmaker, today officially launched the 
All-New Saga, marking the most significant evolution of Malaysia’s best-known automotive nameplate since 
its debut in 1985. Carrying the theme “Four Esteemed Decades, a Future Without Limits”, the launch 
celebrates not just a new model, but a national symbol that represents Malaysia’s industrial progress and 
enduring pride.
The historic launch ceremony was officiated by Yang Berhormat MuliaSenator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) of Malaysia, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur, in the presence of national leaders, industry partners, and thousands of invited guests.

Built for the Next Era of Malaysian Mobility
Built on PROTON’s new Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), the All-New Saga represents a future-ready, globally compliant platform whose Intellectual Property Right (IPR) are fully owned and developed by PROTON representing a major step forward in Malaysia’s automotive capability. With full ownership of the IPR, the AMA platform reinforces PROTON’s growing engineering capability and opens new collaboration opportunities across the Geely Group ecosystem, potentially positioning Malaysia as a regional engineering hub for future model development. It stands as a testament to the company’s engineering independence, 
while also showcasing the strength of the collaboration between Geely’s global innovation and PROTON’s local expertise.

Since partnering with Geely in 2017, PROTON has transformed into a dynamic, globally connected brand, with models such as the X70, X50, S70, and X90 setting new benchmarks in design and performance. The All-New Saga continues this evolution — combining world-class technology, timeless design, and local pride to reaffirm PROTON’s position as a brand made for Malaysians by Malaysians, and ready for the world.

This progress is underpinned by PROTON’s Operational Excellence (POE) programme and Malaysia’s largest network of 164 3S and 4S outlets, ensuring that every owner continues to enjoy superior sales and 
service experiences nationwide.

“The All-New Saga marks a major milestone in our evolution,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer 
of PROTON. “It is more than just a car – it is the embodiment of national pride, engineering excellence, and our continuous pursuit to deliver intelligent, high-quality vehicles Made for Malaysians, Engineered for the World. This All-New Saga reflects the passion of our people and the future without limits of Malaysian automotive capability " 

Following its official launch, excitement surrounding the All-New Saga remains strong, with over 20,000 bookings already secured. The overwhelming early response reflects buyer confidence and enthusiasm for the model’s refreshed design, improved performance, and intelligent connectivity, reaffirming its status as a 
true Malaysian icon.

An I.C.O.N. in Motion – Setting New Standards in Performance, Safety, Intelligence and Style
Under the tagline “Intelligence That Thrills,” the All-New Saga blends Impressive Performance, Comprehensive Safety, Optimised Intelligence, and Next-Gen Styling (I.C.O.N), reflecting PROTON’s 
ambition to elevate Malaysian automotive engineering to global recognition.
I – Impressive Performance
Powered by PROTON’s new i-GT 1.5 Engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the All-New Saga delivers smooth, confident power with outstanding fuel efficiency rated at 4.9L/100 km (Malaysia Driving Cycle, MDC). The new Electric Power Steering (EPS) system further refines handling 
precision, while PROTON’s signature Ride and Handling ensure a balanced, stable, and comfortable experience in all driving conditions.
C – Comprehensive Safety
The All-New Saga offers a full suite of safety technologies, including six SRS airbags, nine Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features, and the Proton Reinforced Safety Structure (RESS) with 
HPF components for greater occupant protection and crash integrity.

O – Optimised Intelligence
A new 16-inch Integrated Dual Screen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, 
complemented by smart convenience features such as auto headlamps, Follow-Me-Home lighting, and 
headlamp levelling, ensuring seamless functionality for everyday driving.

N – Next-Gen Style
The Saga’s bold design evolution features a Sulaman Songket-inspired front grille — a nod to Malaysiancraftsmanship —alongside Full LED Projector Headlamps, a Full LED Rear Tail Light bar, and a refreshed interior that expresses both modern sophistication and national identity.

Official Pricing and Ownership Benefits Unveiled
The All-New Saga is available in three variants – Standard, Executive, Premium and five striking colours –Marine Blue, Space Grey, Ruby Red, Armour Silver and Snow White – each designed to meet the needs of today’s diverse driving lifestyles.

Every purchase of the All-New Saga comes with a 5-year or 150,000km mileage warranty and three times free labour services under the Pro-Warranty* programme, giving owners added peace of mind from day one.

To further enhance ownership, PROTON has introduced a comprehensive Launch Package. Customers can choose either Pro-Trade-in*, with overtrade support of up to RM1,500 when trading in their existing vehicles, or Pro-Xchange* which provides RM2,000 support for the deregistration of non-roadworthy trade-in vehicles. 
For customers seeking financing, Pro-Finance* offers attractive finance rates starting from 2.6%, all these 
offers valid for customers who register their vehicle until 31 December 2025 , making the All-New Saga even 
more attainable.

Customers who opt for the PROTON Insurance Programme, Pro-Shield*, will receive upgraded protection that includes Special Perils coverage, enhanced flood relief coverage of up to RM2,000, and passenger personal accident coverage of up to RM15,000 per person up to 4 passengers. These benefits, valid for 
customers who register their vehicle until 31 December 2025, come in addition to existing advantages such as betterment waiver up to 10 years, agreed-value protection, all-driver coverage, key replacement, personal accident coverage for policyholder, and 24-hour roadside assistance.

As part of its ongoing efforts to improve the ownership experience, PROTON is enhancing its after-sales support and service standards. For the All-New Saga, Fast Service* is available for basic service intervals when customers schedule their visit in advance and choose to remain on-site while their vehicle is being 
serviced. 

In addition, PROTON is introducing 1-Day Service Delivery*, where vehicles will be returned within 24 hours whether customers walk in or book ahead.

For situations where repairs require more than three working days*, PROTON service outlets will provide a relief car and a one-time free service (including service parts and labour), ensuring minimal inconvenience demonstrating PROTON’s commitment to support owners throughout their ownership journey.

The on-the-road (OTR) prices for the All-New Saga are:
Variant Peninsular Malaysia /East Malaysia
All-New Saga 1.5 Standard RM38,990/ RM40,990
All-New Saga 1.5 Executive RM44,990/ RM46,990
All-New Saga 1.5 Premium RM49,990/ RM51,990

The prices after rebate are: 
Variant Peninsular Malaysia /East Malaysia
All-New Saga 1.5 Standard RM37,990/RM39,990
All-New Saga 1.5 Executive RM43,990/RM45,990
All-New Saga 1.5 Premium RM48,990/RM50,990

To learn more or to place a booking for the All-New Saga, visit any PROTON authorised outlet nationwide. 
*Terms and Condition apply

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